Canada will waive processing fees for new applications for permanent resident visas from the tsunami survivors, Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin said.

The citizenship and immigration Canada (CIC) ministry will also waive the right of permanent resident fee for those who have been and continue to be seriously affected by the disaster, he said.

Martin said: "This tragedy is beyond measure, beyond comprehension. We are continuing Canada's commitment to recovery and reconstruction and renewing our pledge to those most in need."

CIC Minister Judy Sgro added: "Canada is committed to doing as much as we can to help reunite close family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have been, and continue to be, seriously and personally affected by the disaster."

Existing family class applications are being fast-tracked under the new measure. Priority is given to spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners and dependent children.