The questions seemed endless, Sandra said: What was your father’s name? When did you leave your country? What was the year? What was the month?

Canadian authorities called in Daniel for a second interview. In the meantime, their eldest son listened to rap on his phone. The younger ones napped or played with the Syrian children. They made up a game together using Uno cards and tried to teach each other phrases in Spanish and Arabic.

Shortly after 3 p.m., a border agent came into the room with a big stack of folders stuffed with papers. She called Daniel and Sandra over to a counter and asked for their signatures. On top of the documents: “CANADA.” These were IDs.

The family had been granted entry into Canada, at least temporarily. They will have to appear before an immigration judge who will determine whether they'll be granted permanent residency.

Daniel smiled carrying his family's papers. For the first time in 20 years, Daniel and Sandra no longer had to hide.

“This is what I wanted,” he said.