Facts on Syrian Refugees

“Syria’s civil war is the worst humanitarian crisis of our time.

Since 2011, approximately 50% of the pre-war population have been killed or forced to flee their homes.

Over 4.2 million Syrians have registered as refugees, most of whom are women and children.

The Government of Canada’s commitment to resettle 25,000 Syrian refugees represents

0.006% of Syrians currently registered as refugees.

Refugees and others seeking protection in Canada are not threats to security – they are seeking security and protection from threats to their own lives.  It is much more difficult to enter Canada as a refugee than as a visitor, because refugees are required to undergo security checks by the CSIS and the RCMP, fingerprinting, and interviews.

Syrian refugees destined to Canada have been referred by the United Nations High

Commissioner for Refugees. They are among the most vulnerable cases – families with children, single mothers, and persecuted minorities who are in desperate situations and urgent need of protection.

Privately Sponsored Refugees (like the family we are supporting) are not entitled to government assistance, including provincial assistance, during the period of their sponsorship (usually 1 year upon arriving to Canada). Income support must be provided by their sponsors for a minimum of 1 year

Up to now, all refugees have been expected to repay the Canadian government for

their transportation to Canada, as well as the cost of their medical examination before arriving. Interest is charged on this loan at a rate set by the Department of Finance each year. Loans can be $10,000 or more, depending on the size of the family and age of the children.  Loan repayments begin within the family’s first year in Canada.  In spite of the fact that this has presented an enormous burden to newcomer refugees, according to the Government of Canada, 91% of current refugees have repaid their loans in full,

the highest repayment of all government loans.

Our group is affiliated with an Immigrant serving agency which has been in existence for over 40 years, working in and with communities to settle and integrate immigrants and refugees. These organizations have been meeting with government agencies, school boards, health authorities, etc., to develop a coordinated plan to ensure all supports are in place.”

Source: The Intercultural Association of Greater Victoria