Invited Someone to Visit - They Applied for Asylum

Hello there,

Recently I sent a letter of invitation to a relative to visit me in Canada, mentioning that I will provide her with a place to stay, and will pay for her expenses while she is in Canada.

Now she arrived and, being a temporary visitor, wants to apply for asylum in Canada. She also wants to apply for an income assistance in Canada after she is found eligible for making a refugee application.

My concern is whether I as a Canadian inviting person will be held liable for her social assistance and other benefits? I never signed any sponsorship or other similar financial undertakings for her. Just a letter of invitation saying that I am paying for her stay and food.

Thank you!

Hello,

Thank you for sharing your situation and question with us.

According to the CIC Website in the Letter of Invitation section,

If you have any other questions or concerns, you may want to contact the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) Call Centre directly.

I hope this information is helpful. Please let us know if you have further questions and if there is any follow up to your question/situation.

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Anna
Settlement.Org Content and Information/Referral Specialist, CIRS
Settlement.Org