The Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) for refugees is a Canadian government program to help refugees get settled in Canada. Today, our Orleans and Ottawa immigration doctors discuss the program and how it can be beneficial to refugees arriving, or currently in, Canada.
What is the Resettlement Assistance Program?
Through the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP), which is a contribution program, the Government of Canada assists refugees who have been resettled in Canada. It consists of two major components: income support and a variety of immediate essential services for those who need them. In addition, there are two components to income support: start-up allowances and monthly income support.
What are the Start-Up Allowances?
The start-up allowances are a one-time payment with the goal of covering the initial costs of settling in Canada.
These allowances include:
- Staple allowance
- Basic household needs allowance
- Furniture allowance
- Regular and seasonal clothing allowance
- Winter clothing allowance
- Utility installation allowance
- Linens allowance
- School start-up allowance (if applicable)
For the exact allowances in each category, visit the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP): Allowances page on the Government of Canada website.
What is Monthly Income Support?
Monthly income support is meant to cover basic needs like food, incidentals, shelter, transportation, and a communication allowance. Other special allowances, based on need, may be added. You can look at the current Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) rates to determine the actual amount of financial assistance that may be required in a specific city or province.
Most refugees are eligible for the following monthly income support allowances:
- Food and incidentals (basic needs)
- Basic shelter
- Housing supplement (new)
- Communication allowance (new)
- Transportation
- Age of majority top-up allowance (if applicable) (new)
- Special Dietary allowance (if applicable) (new)
- Maternity food allowance (if applicable)
What is a Transportation Allowance?
Each adult, including seniors, will receive a transportation allowance equal to the cost of public transportation for adults and seniors in their community, or a minimum of $75 per month, whichever is greater. In areas where there is no public transportation, a flat transportation rate of $75 is issued.
