Sponsored refugees can then fill out an application to gain refugee protection. They will also have to undergo a thorough medical screening and security/criminal check. The Canadian government also offers various integration services to further help the refugees in resettling in the country. These programs cover basic income support and essential services. The income support usually lasts for a year or till the refugees can support themselves, whichever comes first.
Once the client gets to Canada, the Resettlement Assistance Program also provides the following services in the first four to six weeks:
- escorting them at the airport/other entry ports
- assistance in finding a temporary place to live
- assistance to find a permanent place to live
- assessment of their basic needs
- providing information and helping them in getting to know Canada, and
- referrals to other federal and provincial programs/ other settlement services.
In case of private sponsors, provision of financial and emotional support to the refugees is mandatory for the length of the sponsorship period, or until the refugee can support themselves. The sponsor’s support usually lasts for a period of one year (or up to 3 years in some cases).