Frequently asked questions:
The refugee system

Financial support for government-assisted refugees

Why does Canada resettle refugees?

Canada has a long tradition of helping people in other countries who are less fortunate than we are. Canada also has international obligations under the Geneva Convention.

Through its refugee protection system, Canada offers safe haven to people with a well-founded fear of persecution, and to those at risk of torture or cruel and unusual treatment or punishment.

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has a mandate to lead and co-ordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees.

As part of its activities, the UNHCR identifies refugees for resettlement to Canada when it is the best possible solution. A Canadian visa officer then decides whether a person meets the requirements of Canada’s refugee resettlement program and if the person will be admitted to Canada.

To be eligible, refugees must have no other long-term solution within a reasonable time. Refugees selected for resettlement must undergo medical, security and criminal screening. They must also show that, eventually, they will be able to resettle themselves in Canada.

Canada’s Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program allows our country to continue its proud humanitarian tradition and to help refugees rebuild their lives in Canada.