Canada Extends Temporary Special Immigration Measures for Iranian Nationals
March 4, 2026 — Ottawa — In response to ongoing instability in Iran, Canada first introduced special measures in February 2023 to provide temporary support for eligible Iranian nationals already in the country.
As the situation in Iran remains uncertain, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a new set of targeted measures to continue supporting eligible Iranians who are contributing to Canadian communities and the labour market. These measures allow individuals with a valid work permit issued on or before February 28, 2025, to apply to extend it. The measures will expire on March 31, 2027, and standard processing fees apply. Those looking to extend their stay as a visitor or extend their study permit must apply under regular IRCC processes.
Background: Why Canada Introduced Special Measures for Iranian Nationals
Canada first implemented these measures following widespread unrest and government crackdowns in Iran, including the aftermath of Mahsa Amini’s death in 2022. The situation created uncertainty and safety concerns for many Iranian nationals, including those already in Canada.
These humanitarian-focused measures were designed to help Iranian temporary residents maintain legal status in Canada, continue working, or pursue educational opportunities without unnecessary barriers.
What the Extended Measures Allow
Under the new IRCC policy, eligible Iranian nationals in Canada may benefit from the following:
1. Access to Open Work Permits
Eligible individuals may apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work for almost any employer in Canada without requiring a job offer or employer sponsorship.
Open work permits issued under this policy can be valid for up to two years, providing temporary residents with stability and the ability to support themselves while remaining in Canada.
2. Work Permit Extensions
Iranian nationals with existing work permits may apply to extend their current permits from within Canada, even if they do not meet some of the usual requirements.
This provides continuity for individuals who are already employed and contributing to the Canadian workforce.
3. Visitor and Study Permit Applications
Iranian nationals wishing to extend their stay as visitors or study permit holders must apply under regular IRCC processes. While these pathways follow standard procedures, the policy ensures that eligible Iranian nationals can maintain their status in Canada.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for these temporary measures, applicants must generally:
Be Iranian nationals
Hold valid temporary resident status in Canada
Have a work permit issued on or before February 28, 2025
Applications for extensions under these special measures will be accepted until March 31, 2027, after which regular IRCC processes apply.
What This Means for Iranian Nationals in Canada
The extended measures provide continued support for Iranian nationals who may be unable or unwilling to return to Iran due to ongoing instability. They allow individuals to maintain legal status, continue working, or pursue educational opportunities.
For many temporary residents, these measures offer an important period of stability while they explore longer-term immigration options or permanent residency pathways.
Final Thoughts
Canada continues to respond to global humanitarian challenges through temporary immigration measures. By extending these policies for Iranian nationals, the government recognizes the ongoing uncertainties in Iran and the contributions of Iranian nationals to Canadian communities and the labour market.
For eligible Iranian nationals currently in Canada, understanding these temporary policies is essential to maintaining status and taking advantage of available work and study opportunities.