On March 4, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a new set of targeted measures for Iranian nationals in Canada. Canada first introduced
Special Measures for Iranian Nationals Updated: Work Permit Extensions Until March 31, 2027
On March 4, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a new set of targeted measures for Iranian nationals in Canada. Canada first introduced special measures for Iranians in February 2023, and our March 2025 article covered the previous update. This is the next stage.
What Has Changed?
As of March 1, 2026, the special measures apply only to Iranian work permit holders in Canada. IRCC states that no other temporary measures are in place for Iranian applicants.
Who is Eligible?
- Iranian nationals with a valid passport
- who are in Canada with a valid work permit, both when they apply and when a decision is made
- whose work permit was issued on or before February 28, 2025
Key Details
- A work permit extension under these measures may be valid for up to 2 years.
- A permit cannot be valid beyond your passport’s expiry date. If your passport expires within 2 years, renew it before applying.
- Anyone who has already received an extension under the March 1, 2026 measures cannot receive a second one.
- Applications must be submitted on or before March 31, 2027, when the measures expire.
- Standard fees apply. IRCC lists a work permit processing fee of $155, an open work permit holder fee of $100 for open work permit applicants, and a biometrics fee of $85 if required.
Visitors, Students and TRP Holders
Visitors, study permit holders and temporary resident permit (TRP) holders can no longer apply under the special measures. They must use IRCC’s regular processes to extend their stay.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through an IRCC secure account. If your status expires after you apply but before a decision is made, you are considered to have maintained status while your application is processed. When using the IRCC web form for questions, IRCC asks applicants to include the keyword “Iran2023”.
Next Steps
- Check the issue date of your current work permit.
- Check your passport’s expiry date.
- Apply well before your permit expires, and no later than March 31, 2027.
To review your eligibility for a work permit extension or your other options, complete our online assessment or contact our office to book a consultation.
Sources: