Canada has recently declared the extension of special immigration measures for Iranian nationals as temporary residents. Initially introduced in February 2023 to provide support during a period of unrest in Iran, these measures, which were set to conclude last week, will now be in effect until February 28, 2025. The decision to prolong these measures comes in response to the continued instability in Iran, even though protests have diminished. The IRCC emphasizes the ongoing need for support in light of the persisting uncertain situation. Discover Canada’s special immigration measures for Iranian nationals as permanent residence.
In the initial announcement, the Canadian government stated that the special measures:
- Facilitate the extension application process for individuals in Canada with temporary work, study, or visitor visas.
- Prioritize the processing of applications from Iranians residing in Canada.
- Introduce a new pathway for open work permits specifically designed for Iranians already residing in the country.
- Waive specific processing fees for Iranians seeking an extension of their stay in Canada.
- Exempt Canadian citizens and permanent residents currently in Iran from passport and permanent resident travel document fees if they wish to depart.
Iranian applicants in Canada are eligible to have certain services’ processing fees waived. They are specifically excused from paying the application processing fee for extending permission to remain in Canada as a temporary resident, as well as the processing price for acquiring a temporary resident permit. They are also exempt from paying the fee associated with biometric capture.
A valid Iranian passport and Iranian nationality are prerequisites for eligibility for these fee waivers. In addition, they must continue to be legally recognized as temporary residents at the time of application filing and during the adjudication of their case.
Pathway for Iranians to Obtain an Open Work Permit
Iranian nationals who meet the requirements may apply for an open work permit, which gives them the freedom to work in Canada for a variety of companies in a range of industries.
Additionally, individuals can apply for additional categories of temporary residents without having to pay any costs, such switching from a guest visa to a study permit. After applying for a new stream, if a visa or permission expires, it will be considered that the applicant is preserving their status.
Canada sees a significant number of its citizens originating from Iran
According to data from the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, Iranians consider Canada to be a preferred destination. Among newcomers who got Canadian citizenship between January and September 2023, Iranians ranked sixth.
Additional information from IRCC indicates that there are a significant number of Iranian nationals living in Canada. By the end of 2023, 14,780 Iranians had study visas in Canada, and 10,670 more had become permanent residents.
Furthermore, Iran ranks as the eighth-largest source nation for immigrant landings in 2022 according to IRCC data. In particular, 11,105 Iranians were able to obtain permanent residency status in that year.
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