Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Canada Minister Jason Kenney is currently finalizing a new policy to help Afghans who have become endangered through their associations with the Canadian military and Canadian diplomats. Afghans who have been seriously injured as a result of working with the Canadian military and those who face threats from insurgents because of they have assisted foreigners, will be eligible for fast-track Canadian immigration.

Applicants must have 12 months of service to the Canadian mission, along with medical and security checks and a recommendation letter from a diplomat or senior soldier.

Minister Kenney has expressed that his preference is for these people to resettle in safer parts of Afghanistan, because they "are going to have play a central role in the long-term construction of a stable and democratic Afghanistan."

"But in particular circumstances," he went on to say, "where we feel that a person's safety will be jeopardized by staying in the country, the door will be open to Canada…"

"I think Canadians would be proud to help provide refuge to those who have helped our forces, aid personnel and diplomats."

Previously, Canada has had no policy on humanitarian immigration for local staff, unlike many other NATO countries.

Afghans who come in under this program will receive many of the services offered to refugees, such as income support for 12 months, health benefits, and employment assistance.