Emergency Plan

  • Seeking Asylum in Canada

    U.S. Citizens and the STCA (Safe Third Country Agreement): Americans can seek asylum in Canada under limited exceptions to the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA), which generally requires claims to be made in the first safe country of entry. While the STCA prevents most individuals from claiming asylum in Canada if they arrive from the US, Americans can apply if they face persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, such as LGBTQ+ individuals, or if they are a citizen.

    Making the Claim From within Canada: Go to the Canada.ca website to start your claim online.

  • Passport

    Trans Rescue can assist with this, including in cases of urgent travel.

  • Entering Canada

    US Citizens: To prove your identity and citizenship, regardless of age, the CBSA recommends traveling with a valid passport. However, you may also present documents that show your:

    • full name

    • date of birth

    • citizenship

    If one document doesn't include all of this information, you can use a combination of documents. If your proof of citizenship does not include a photo, you may be asked to provide a separate photo ID.

  • Obtaining Sponsorship

    a. Rainbow Refugee Sponsorship Program: Through RRAP, selected LGBTQIA+ refugees receive funds to cover vital living expenses, which might include housing, medical needs, transportation, and daily necessities during the first 12 months following arrival. The financial aid not only offers immediate relief but also serves as a stabilizing force that allows the refugee to focus on integrating into their new community without the overwhelming burden of financial instability.

    b. Inland Program

    c. MOSAIC Sponsorship Program

  • Additional Resources

    Emergency funds: If possible, keep an emergency stash of cash, as you may lose access to bank accounts or credit cards. Emergency funds for relocation may be available through organizations like the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and Trans Safety Emergency Fund (TSEF).

    BC Safe Haven

    Information Sheet on Supports for Refugee Claimants

    BC CHARMS

    MOSAIC

    ROAR (Safe Haven for LGBTQI+ refugees) - Nanaimo

    LOVE CRN