Are you living in Canada and experiencing family violence? If you’re afraid to leave an abusive spouse or common-law partner for fear of losing your immigration status, Canada offers support through Temporary Resident Permits (TRP) specifically for victims of family violence. This permit can help you escape your situation, protect your status, and start rebuilding your life without fear.
What Is a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) for Victims of Family Violence?
The TRP for victims of family violence provides temporary resident status, allowing you to stay in Canada independently from your abusive spouse or partner. There is no application fee for the initial TRP in these cases, and you may be eligible for additional TRPs depending on your situation. This permit also covers your children, giving them the same protection while you decide on your next steps.
Key Benefits of a Family Violence TRP
- Safe Escape: A TRP grants you the freedom to leave an abusive relationship while retaining temporary status in Canada.
- Health and Trauma Support: With a TRP, you can access trauma counseling and health care benefits, ensuring you and your children have the support needed to recover.
- Work Permit Options: You may also apply for a fee-exempt work permit, allowing you to earn an income without depending on your abuser.
- Temporary Stay: This permit buys you time to assess your options, whether you choose to apply for permanent residency on humanitarian and compassionate grounds or explore other avenues.
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How to Apply for a Family Violence TRP
To apply for this TRP, you need to complete a paper application and provide supporting evidence of the abuse you’re experiencing. Be sure to mark your application envelope with the letters “FV” to ensure it is quickly identified by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Vulnerable Persons Unit. Here are the steps:
- Complete a TRP Application Form: Obtain the form from the IRCC website and fill it out accurately.
- Gather Supporting Evidence: Include any documents that support your case, such as police reports, restraining orders, or statements from social workers.
- Mail the Application: Send your application to the IRCC Vulnerable Persons Unit in Toronto, making sure to use a postal or courier service with a tracking number.
Address for TRP Applications
- IRCC – Vulnerable Persons Unit
- 5343 Dundas Street West, Suite 105
- Toronto, ON M9B 6K5
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Contacting the Client Support Centre
If you need assistance with the application process or understanding your options, you can reach out to the IRCC Client Support Centre. This service provides information about TRPs, helps connect you with community resources, and offers support for victims of family violence.
Phone Support
- IRCC Client Support Centre: Call 1-888-242-2100
- Community and Social Services: Dial 2-1-1 for additional resources and local services
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Applying for Permanent Residency on Humanitarian Grounds
Canada prioritizes urgent situations of family violence by expediting permanent residency applications for victims. To qualify, you must be experiencing family violence by a spouse or common-law partner and be dependent on them to maintain your status in Canada. These applications are reviewed on humanitarian and compassionate grounds, reducing processing times so you can transition to a more stable status quickly.
Situations that May Qualify for Expedited Processing
- You are in an abusive relationship and your residency is contingent on this relationship.
- Your sponsor has withdrawn their application for you, leaving you without permanent status.
- You’ve been misled by an abusive partner into believing an application was submitted on your behalf.
How to Apply for Permanent Residency Under Family Violence
When applying online through the Permanent Residence Portal, select the category “FV – In Canada – Humanitarian and compassionate considerations.” Be sure to include “FV” on your application cover letter and email the Vancouver IRCC office with the subject line “FV” at VancouverBro@cic.gc.ca.
Additional Resources and Support
If you are experiencing family violence, Canada offers numerous resources to assist you. Beyond the TRP, you can access counseling, legal assistance, and social services. For information on these services:
- Visit the IRCC website for resources specific to victims of family violence.
- Call 2-1-1 to locate community support, health services, and shelter resources in your area.
Final Thoughts
If you or someone you know is affected by family violence, don’t wait to seek help. The Canadian government offers critical support to help victims of abuse reclaim their independence and safety. With the family violence TRP and additional resources, you can begin building a life free from fear and find a path forward.
For those in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1 or your local emergency services. Help is available, and you have options to protect yourself and your loved ones.