On December 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a change to the pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA) for Iran. The change matters to
Iranian Nationals: 12-Month Waiting Period for a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment Waived
On December 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a change to the pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA) for Iran. The change matters to Iranian nationals in Canada whose refugee claims were recently refused.
What is a PRRA?
A PRRA assesses the risk a person may face if removed from Canada. Normally, a person must wait 12 months after a final negative decision before applying. IRCC can waive this waiting period when there has been a sudden and significant change in conditions in the person’s country of origin.
Why the Change?
IRCC states that human rights conditions in Iran have deteriorated since hostilities between Israel and Iran escalated in June 2025, and that some Iranian nationals could face risk if returned.
What Has Changed?
- The 12-month waiting period is waived for Iranian nationals who received a final negative decision on their refugee claim from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) or the Federal Court between December 20, 2024 and December 19, 2025.
- Iranian nationals whose PRRA was refused by IRCC during the same period may apply for a second PRRA.
Important Limits
- People under a removal order for serious inadmissibility, or who were previously excluded from refugee protection, may only be eligible for a restricted PRRA.
- Iranian nationals who receive a final negative decision after December 19, 2025 must wait 12 months before applying for a PRRA.
- Being able to apply does not guarantee the right to remain in Canada. An IRCC officer decides each case individually, based on the information provided.
Next Steps for Affected Individuals
- Check the date of your final negative decision or PRRA refusal.
- Gather up-to-date evidence about your personal risk.
- Keep your application up to date and tell IRCC about any changes.
These cases involve strict timelines and serious consequences, so professional legal advice is strongly recommended.
To have your situation reviewed, complete our online assessment or contact our office to book a consultation.
Source: IRCC notice – Pre-removal risk assessment changes for Iran