Help a refugee family find a safe home in Victoria
Through Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR), everyday people in Voctoria come together to welcome refugee families, providing financial support, friendship, and a real sense of belonging for their first year in Canada.
Two ways to sponsor.
Find the path that’s right for you.
If you have a specific person or family in mind (someone you know personally, or a case you’ve heard about), you can apply through ICA’s annual Expression of Interest process to form a Constituent Group and sponsor their directly.
You don’t need to know a refugee to make a difference. Through the UN Refugee Agency’s Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) program, ICA can match your group with a refugee or family who needs support in Greater Victoria.
How private sponsorship works, step by step
Sponsoring a refugee family is a meaningful commitment. Here’s what the journey looks like from start to finish.
1.
Form your group
Gather at least 5 Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are willing to commit time and financial support for one year.
2.
Connect with ICA
Contact ICA’s PSR team. We’ll explain your options — whether you know a refugee or need to be matched through BVOR.
3.
Complete training
All Constituent Groups complete ICA’s sponsorship training to prepare for welcoming and supporting a refugee family.
4.
Submit your application
ICA submits your group’s application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for approval.
5.
Welcome your family
Once approved, you’ll support the family for their first 12 months — with ICA’s ongoing guidance and resources throughout.
Sponsorship Resources
ICA provides training materials, videos, and guides to help your sponsorship group feel prepared and confident.
Training videos
Facts Sheets Downloads
Interview Preparation Document
Responsibilities of Sponsorship Group (RSTP)
RSTP – Month 13 Resource Kit
Handbook for Sponsoring Groups: The First Year and Beyond
Helpful Resources
B.C. Newcomers Guide to Victoria
Trauma Support (VICCIR)
Refugee Sponsorship IRCC Forms
Refusals Fact Sheet
The Rights of Privately Sponsored Refugees
What kinds of fraud should newcomers to Canada watch out for?
Refugee Sponsorship Training Program
Secondary Migration
Videos and Essential Resources on Indigenous Peoples
Videos and Essential Resources on Indigenous Peoples
Information in your language
Download our PSR FAQ sheets. Sheets are written in plain language to help refugees and their communities understand how private sponsorship works.
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Ready to sponsor?
Contact us
Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program
Can’t sponsor directly?
Donate instead.
Your financial contribution goes directly towards supporting refugee families through ICA’s Private Sponsorship program.