Canada’s Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) provides crucial support to refugees as they begin their new lives in Canada.
This program offers financial assistance and immediate essential services to eligible newcomers during their initial settlement period. Understanding how to navigate the application process is essential for those seeking to benefit from this program.
What is the Resettlement Assistance Program?
The Resettlement Assistance Program is designed to help government-assisted refugees and other eligible newcomers during their first few weeks in Canada. The program provides income support and immediate essential services to help refugees establish themselves in their new communities.
Key Components of RAP
- Financial Support: Covers basic needs and shelter for up to one year or until self-sufficient
- Immediate Services: Assistance with airport reception, temporary accommodation, and basic orientation
- Essential Needs: Help with finding permanent housing, setting up bank accounts, and accessing community resources
- Settlement Support: Guidance on adapting to life in Canada through various orientation services
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Resettlement Assistance Program, applicants must:
- Be recognized as a Convention Refugee Abroad or a member of the Country of Asylum Class
- Be referred by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or another referral organization
- Have been selected for resettlement to Canada as a government-assisted refugee
- Not have private sponsors in Canada
- Be admissible to Canada on health and security grounds
- Demonstrate potential to become self-sufficient and successfully establish in Canada
Individuals who arrive in Canada as privately sponsored refugees, asylum seekers, or other immigration categories are typically not eligible for RAP.
Application Process
The application process for the Resettlement Assistance Program involves several steps that must be completed carefully:
Step 1: Refugee Status Determination
Before applying for RAP, individuals must have their refugee status determined by the UNHCR or another authorized organization. This involves:
- Registration with the UNHCR in your country of asylum
- Completing a refugee status determination interview
- Receiving official recognition as a refugee
Step 2: Referral for Resettlement
Once recognized as a refugee, individuals may be referred for resettlement to Canada if they meet the criteria. This referral process includes:
- Assessment of resettlement needs by the UNHCR
- Preparation of a referral file with supporting documentation
- Submission of the referral to Canadian visa offices abroad
Step 3: Application for Permanent Residence
After receiving a referral, applicants must submit a permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This application includes:
- Completing Form IMM 0008 (Generic Application Form for Canada)
- Providing Schedule A – Background/Declaration
- Submitting Schedule 2 – Refugees Outside Canada
- Including supporting documents (identification, family information, etc.)
- Undergoing medical examinations and security screenings
Step 4: Selection Interview
Applicants will attend an interview with a Canadian visa officer to assess their eligibility for resettlement. During this interview:
- The officer will verify the information provided in the application
- The applicant’s refugee claim will be examined
- The potential for successful establishment in Canada will be assessed
- Questions about family members and dependents will be addressed
Step 5: Pre-Departure Orientation
Selected applicants will participate in orientation sessions before departing for Canada. These sessions cover:
- Information about life in Canada
- Rights and responsibilities as a permanent resident
- Overview of Canadian climate, culture, and social norms
- Introduction to services available upon arrival
Step 6: Travel Arrangements
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) typically helps arrange travel to Canada through the Immigration Loans Program. This includes:
- Booking flights and transit arrangements
- Assisting with travel documents
- Providing pre-departure medical checks
- Coordinating with Canadian officials regarding arrival details
Step 7: Arrival and RAP Initiation
Upon arrival in Canada, government-assisted refugees are met by RAP service provider organizations who initiate the support process:
- Airport reception and temporary accommodation
- Needs assessment within the first few days
- Introduction to immediate services
- Assignment of a settlement counselor
Accessing RAP Services After Arrival
Once in Canada, refugees work closely with RAP service provider organizations to access the full range of services:
Initial Settlement Support
- Temporary accommodation for up to two weeks
- Assistance finding permanent housing
- Help obtaining essential household items
- Orientation to the local community and available services
Financial Assistance
- Income support typically lasts for up to 12 months
- Rates are aligned with provincial social assistance rates
- Covers basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing
- Additional allowances for specific needs may be available
Settlement Services
- Language assessment and training
- Employment assistance
- Assistance enrolling children in school
- Help accessing healthcare services
- Cultural orientation
Important Tips for Successful Applications
To improve chances of a successful application and smooth settlement process:
- Maintain Updated Documentation: Keep all personal documents organized and accessible
- Be Thorough and Honest: Provide complete and accurate information in all applications
- Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your refugee claim and reasons for seeking resettlement
- Learn About Canada: Familiarize yourself with Canadian society and culture before arrival
- Set Realistic Expectations: Understand the scope and limitations of the assistance provided
- Communicate Proactively: Stay in touch with referral organizations and Canadian officials throughout the process
Challenges and Considerations
While the Resettlement Assistance Program provides valuable support, applicants should be aware of certain challenges:
- Processing Times: The application and approval process can take many months or even years
- Limited Spots: Canada accepts a set number of government-assisted refugees each year
- Adjustment Period: Adapting to life in Canada requires patience and resilience
- Transition to Self-Sufficiency: RAP is temporary, and refugees must work toward financial independence
- Regional Differences: Services and integration experiences vary across different parts of Canada
Additional Resources and Support
Beyond the Resettlement Assistance Program, refugees can access additional support through:
- Settlement Organizations: Nonprofit agencies that provide services to newcomers
- Community Connections: Programs that link refugees with local community members
- Language Training: LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) programs
- Employment Services: Job search assistance, resume writing, and skills development
- Healthcare Navigation: Help understanding and accessing the Canadian healthcare system
Success Stories and Community Impact
The Resettlement Assistance Program has helped thousands of refugees build new lives in Canada. Many former refugees have gone on to:
- Establish successful careers
- Pursue higher education
- Start businesses that create jobs
- Contribute to their communities through volunteer work
- Sponsor additional family members to join them in Canada
These success stories highlight the importance of effective resettlement programs and the positive impact they can have on both refugees and Canadian society.
The Resettlement Assistance Program represents Canada’s commitment to providing protection and support to refugees from around the world.
By following the application steps outlined above and working closely with referral organizations and settlement agencies, eligible refugees can access the assistance they need to begin building new lives in Canada.
The journey from refugee status determination to successful integration in Canada may be challenging, but the comprehensive support provided through RAP helps newcomers navigate this transition.
By understanding the application process and available services, refugees can make the most of this important program and lay the foundation for a positive future in their new home.
For the most current and detailed information about the Resettlement Assistance Program, contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada or consult with refugee-serving organizations in your area.