For cases in which the applicant is a victim or survivor of family violence, IRCC Officers are encouraged to consider applying this exemption on their own initiative, as applicants may not know to ask, and their situations may vary according to provincial or territorial social assistance eligibility requirements and programs.

An exemption may be considered in the following circumstances:

·         Survivors of family violence may have difficulties in regaining their financial footing even after escaping an abusive relationship, as they cope with many barriers such as

·         instability of housing

·         child-care needs

·         social isolation

·         In some situations, applicants may not be able to access key social supports such as housing or community supports unless they are on social assistance.

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