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CR1 — Government-Assisted Refugees
CanadaCanada•North America
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CR1 — Government-Assisted Refugees

Residency Pathway PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.

At a Glance

Processing Time

19 months

Estimated Cost

Free

Stay Duration

Permanent (Holders are granted permanent resident status upon arrival)

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information
Canada flag

Living in Canada

Cost of Living
12% cheaper than United States
Avg SalaryCA$48,000
Quality of Life
170/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Government-funded permanent resettlement for the most vulnerable Convention Refugees referred by the UNHCR, including up to 12 months of settlement support.

The GAR program resettles the most vulnerable Convention Refugees in Canada, fully funded by the government. Applicants cannot apply directly — they must be referred by the UNHCR or a designated partner, who identifies those with urgent protection needs and no other durable solution.

Approved refugees receive permanent resident status on arrival and up to 12 months of support via the Resettlement Assistance Program, covering housing, orientation, and basic needs. Travel is met via an interest-free loan; medical exams by the Interim Federal Health Program. Processing averages 19 months.

This visa is ideal for Convention Refugees outside their home country who have been referred by the UNHCR and lack the means or connections for private sponsorship.

Canada

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Annual Cap & Quota

15,250 government-assisted refugees planned for 2025

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must be a Convention Refugee or a person in a refugee-like situation.

Must be referred for resettlement by the UNHCR or another designated referral organization.

Must be outside their home country and unable to return due to fear of persecution.

Must pass medical, security, and criminality screenings.

Must be identified as one of the most vulnerable refugees in need of protection.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Refugee status documentation (UNHCR registration).

Identity documents (if available).

Completed Canadian immigration application forms.

Medical examination reports.

Police certificates (where applicable).

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Financial support provided by the Government of Canada for up to 12 months.
  • Access to settlement services and orientation programs upon arrival.
  • Permanent resident status granted upon arrival.
  • Government covers the cost of medical exams and travel (via a repayable loan).
  • Access to the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP).

Worth Knowing

  • Applicants cannot apply directly; they must be referred by the UNHCR.
  • Processing times can be long due to security and medical screening.
  • Travel and medical costs are provided as a loan that must be repaid over time.
  • Resettlement location is determined by the government based on capacity.

Application Process

1

Register with the UNHCR or local state authorities in the country of asylum.

2

Wait for referral to the Canadian government by the UNHCR or a referral partner.

3

Undergo an interview with a Canadian visa officer.

4

Complete medical examinations and security/criminality background checks.

5

Receive approval and travel arrangements via the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

6

Arrive in Canada and receive initial settlement support.

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