Canada Responds to Former POWs

The Government of Canada, on behalf of a grateful nation, will make a tax-free payment of up to $20,000 to former prisoners of war (POWs) who were not aware of, and did not apply for, compensation benefits when they first became available.

Legislation to compensate POWs was introduced in Canada in 1976. At that time, a publicity campaign to reach out to eligible Veterans generated more than 5,700 applications.

Despite our considerable efforts, some Veterans did not apply for the compensation until many years after the legislation came into effect. All late applicants who have been approved have been provided with the full amount of compensation that is available under current legislation. However, the legislation does not give the Department the authority to grant payments back to 1976.

Did You Know?

• Canada is one of the few countries in the world to provide compensation to former POWs.
• Today, Veterans Affairs Canada provides compensation to about 4,000 former POWs.
• Former POWs may still apply for compensation today, 27 years after the program was announced; however, the amount that can be paid is limited by legislation. Please contact your local VAC District Office for more information.