In response to the escalating civil war in Sudan, the Canadian government, led by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, has introduced a vital lifeline for individuals seeking refuge. This humanitarian initiative is extended not only to Sudanese citizens but also to other foreign nationals who resided in Sudan when the conflict erupted in mid-April.

The scope of this program is significant, encompassing individuals who share a familial connection, such as being a child, grandchild, parent, grandparent, or sibling to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. However, the crucial aspect lies in the financial commitment of these relatives, who must agree to provide support. While the specific financial obligations have not been disclosed by Ottawa, it underscores the collaborative effort required to facilitate the resettlement of those displaced by the Sudanese crisis.

Applicants for this program must undergo the standard security and biometric screening procedures applied to visa applicants, including fingerprinting. This rigorous process ensures a thorough assessment and safeguards the integrity of the humanitarian pathway.

The civil war in Sudan, ignited by dueling militias in the spring, has led to an exodus of approximately five million people. Among them are individuals who were once refugees from neighboring countries, now faced with the dire consequences of the internal conflict. The Canadian initiative acknowledges the urgency of the situation and aims to provide a compassionate solution by leveraging the support of existing familial ties within the country.