January 31, 2025
Backgrounder on the Crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
Canada is in the process of bringing in thousands from Gaza, the Hamas-dominated territory without adequate security and background checks. The program capacity of 5000 TRV applications is almost full.
Canada must augment the vetting of applicants who have made applications for long-term entry to Canada under Canada Special immigrations Measures for people in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Lawyers for Secure Immigration recommends that President Trump and Prime Minister Trudeau take immediate steps to make inquiries about the “light” security and background checks for those applying for temporary entry under this special immigration program.
This humanitarian visa program automatically offers those approved the right to reside in Canada for three (3) years. During that same period, visa holders may initiate applications to remain in Canada by claiming asylum, making applications for permanent residence under humanitarian and compassion grounds, through Canada’s Economic Mobility Program, the Temporary Resident Permit Holders Class or through regular economic and family class streams. This Special Measures Program is a stepping stone for permanent entry to Canada for people coming from territories dominated by organizations designated as terrorist entities by the government of Canada.
The security and background checks for intending visitors are not the same as the more robust security and background checks that Canada uses for applications for permanent residence. To alleviate President Trump’s concerns about weakness at its Northern border with Canada, IRCC can immediately implement changes to augment the vetting procedures by which applicants are screened for admission to Canada. Enhanced screening of these visa applicants in the crisis region are warranted because of the likelihood that once admitted to Canada, applicants will seek to remain in Canada permanently.
For example, should any “visitor” make a refugee claim during their three (3) year visit, they can expect to wait 44 months or longer to have an oral hearing.
Once in Canada the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) assess asylum claims. Representatives of the Minister of Immigration and Refugees and Citizenship may intervene should information come to light that indicates a claimant may pose a security risk to in Canada. Given existing pressures on Canada’s asylum system, undertaking robust front end background screening serves to reduce any security risk to both Canada and the United States.
Lawyers for Secure Immigration recommend abandoning the “lower” security and background checks being used for Canada’s Gaza and West Bank Special Measure Program; the immediate suspension of processing of all visa applications pending under this program, the cancellation of all visas that were issued with minimal security and background checks; and the immediate commencement of security and background checks that Canada uses for applications for permanent residence for all applicants being processed under this program.
There is a clear preventable risk for Canada and the USA. We call upon President Trump and Prime Minister Trudeau to help reduce the risk for both countries.
For further information, email: lawyers4secureimmigration@gmail.com
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