Canada: Immigration Concessions for Iranians

Update – March 5, 2026: The government of Canada has introduced updated targeted measures to support Iranians who are temporary residents in Canada. Under the revised policy, eligible Iranian nationals may apply for a one-time extension of their work permit, provided they hold a valid passport, are physically present in Canada, and have a valid work permit issued on or before February 28, 2025. Applicants must maintain valid status at the time of application and decision, must not have previously received an extension under these special measures, and must meet all standard admissibility and eligibility requirements. Applications must be submitted by March 31, 2027, when the measures are set to expire. Standard government processing fees apply. Individuals seeking to extend their visitor or study status must do so through regular IRCC processes. Access the government’s website for additional information.

March 6, 2025: The government of Canada further extended certain immigration concessions for eligible Iranians, while others have ended as of February 28, 2025. The open work permit pathway for eligible Iranians has been extended until February 28, 2026. Conversely, Iranians seeking to extend their stay in Canada and citizens and permanent residents of Canada in Iran seeking to apply for passports or other travel documents are no longer eligible for a fee exemption. Access the government’s website for additional information.  

March 1, 2024: The availability of the below immigration concessions for eligible Iranians has been extended until February 28, 2025. 

The government of Canada has announced new measures to support Iranians who are temporary residents in Canada, beginning March 1, 2023. These will include an open work permit pathway (which allows self-employment or work for any employer in Canada); the prioritization of their immigration applications; and a waiver of certain processing fees for Iranians seeking to extend their stay in Canada and for citizens and permanent residents of Canada in Iran seeking to apply for passports or permanent resident travel documents.