To be eligible for compensation, victims must have sustained property damage, or been injured or died as a result of a crime committed in Québec. Victims of crimes that took place in Québec, but who do not live in the province, may also submit an application for benefits
(Anyone of Canadian nationality who is the victim of a crime abroad may receive compensation under the Financial Assistance for Canadians Victimized Abroad program.)
The crime must have been committed:
- in Québec (on or after March 1, 1972); and
- against the person, as provided under the Schedule to the Act. Property offences (e.g., fraud) are excluded.
Victims:
- must provide documentation to prove the crime described in the application actually occurred. This must be demonstrated by a preponderance of evidence;
- must submit the application within the time provided for by law;
- do not have to lodge a complaint against the assailant;
- may be compensated even if the assailant is not identified, prosecuted, or found guilty at the conclusion of criminal proceedings;
- must demonstrate that the injury or death resulted directly from the crime;
- must supply a document detailing the nature of the injuries caused by the crime;
- may have sustained either a physical or psychological injury.