In response to Sudan’s humanitarian crisis, Canada is increasing its refugee intake, aiming to resettle 10,000 Sudanese refugees, including 4,000 government-assisted and 700 privately sponsored individuals. However, Quebec has opted out, blocking family reunification for Sudanese refugees within the province.
The federal program also reopens a family-based permanent residence pathway on February 25, 2025, allowing Sudanese nationals with relatives in Canada to apply for resettlement. While Ottawa has expanded its support, Quebec refuses to participate, citing its existing commitments to asylum seekers and immigration control.
Canada has nearly doubled the number of resettlement applications it will accept, increasing the cap from 3,250 to over 5,000, bringing the total number of Sudanese refugees expected in Canada to 10,000 through:
Additionally, temporary measures have been extended until October 27, 2025, allowing Sudanese nationals already in Canada to extend their temporary residence status.
Despite federal efforts, Quebec has refused to implement the special program, blocking Sudanese families from reuniting in the province. The Quebec government argues that it already accommodates a significant number of asylum seekers and has chosen not to adopt Ottawa’s temporary immigration measures.
An exception has been made: Quebec residents can now sponsor Sudanese relatives—but only if they settle in another province. This decision is rooted in Quebec’s jurisdiction over immigration selection.
Quebec’s immigration ministry spokesperson, Émilie Vézina, stated that the province is "sensitive to the distress" of Sudanese families but believes it already contributes significantly to humanitarian efforts.
Despite the increased quota, advocacy groups argue that significant barriers remain. The Sudanese Canadian Community Association has criticized the program for:
In response, Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated that the program was developed in consultation with Sudanese community groups and will be adjusted as needed.
Sudanese nationals seeking permanent residence under the family reunification program should check their eligibility and submit applications as soon as the program reopens on February 25, 2025. Those already in Canada can apply to extend their temporary stay until October 2025.
The government advises applicants to use the official web form and include the code SD2023 to prioritize their request.
The expanded refugee intake is a significant step forward in Canada’s response to the Sudan crisis. However, Quebec’s exclusion from the program raises concerns about fairness, making it more difficult for Sudanese families to reunite. As the conflict in Sudan continues, affected individuals and advocacy groups hope for further adjustments to improve access to protection in Canada.
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