Policy Expiry: December 31, 2025 or when 160 applications are accepted
In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a new temporary public policy that expands access to the Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) Program for Sudanese nationals.
This initiative acknowledges both the vulnerability of Sudanese refugees and the strong desire of Canadians and permanent residents to support those affected by the conflict.
What’s New?
Normally, Groups of Five and Community Sponsors are required to include a Refugee Status Determination (RSD) document—issued by the UNHCR or a foreign state—when applying to sponsor a refugee. However, due to significant displacement and barriers in obtaining these documents for Sudanese refugees, IRCC is temporarily waiving this requirement for a limited number of applications.
Key Details of the Policy
- Who is eligible?
Sudanese nationals being sponsored under the PSR program by:
- A Group of Five or a Community Sponsor
- Not intending to reside in Quebec
- What is the exemption?
These sponsorship applications will be accepted without an RSD document, which is normally required under paragraph 153(1)(b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
- How many applications will be accepted?
IRCC will process up to 160 applications under this public policy.
- Application period:
- Begins April 30, 2025
- Ends December 31, 2025 or once the 160-application cap is reached
- Other eligibility criteria:
Applicants must still meet all other eligibility and admissibility requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations.
Why It Matters
This temporary measure addresses a critical barrier for recently displaced Sudanese refugees, many of whom are unable to secure RSD documents due to overwhelmed systems in host countries. It enables private citizens and community groups in Canada to respond more rapidly and compassionately to the crisis.
Need Help Sponsoring a Sudanese Refugee?
If you’re part of a Group of Five or a Community Sponsor group and want to sponsor a Sudanese refugee under this special measure, we can help you:
- Understand the application process
- Gather required documentation
- Ensure compliance with all applicable guidelines
Contact us today at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca to begin the sponsorship process while this policy is still active.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please refer to the IRCC official website for full details.