IRCC Extends Temporary Public Policy for Iranian Nationals in Canada

As of March 1, 2025, there have been important changes to the special measures for Iranian nationals currently residing in Canada. These adjustments affect Iranian nationals with valid temporary resident status in Canada and provide updated guidelines for applying for work permits, study permits, and visitor records. Here’s what you need to know:

Who is Affected?

The changes apply to Iranian nationals who:

•            Arrived in Canada on or before February 28, 2025.

•            Hold valid temporary resident status in Canada.

•            Are applying for:

◦            A new work permit.

◦            An extension of an existing work permit.

◦            An initial study permit.

These updated measures will help streamline processes for those who qualify, but there are also new requirements for those who need to extend their status as a visitor or study permit holder.

How to Extend Your Stay in Canada

If you’re an Iranian national in Canada and need to extend your stay, the process has now shifted to the regular application methods.

1. Extending Your Stay as a Visitor

To extend your visitor status, you must apply online for a Visitor Record. This process applies if you:

•            Are a visitor, worker without a work permit, or student without a study permit, and need to extend your stay in Canada.

2. Extending Your Study Permit

Your study permit will have an expiry date that indicates when you need to stop studying and leave Canada. The expiry date is typically the length of your study program plus an additional 90 days, giving you time to prepare to leave or apply for an extension.

If you want to continue studying in Canada after your permit expires, it is essential to apply for a study permit extension before the expiry date. Failure to apply on time will require you to leave Canada.

Important Fees Update

Starting March 1, 2025, all applications for work permits, study permits, and visitor record extensions are subject to standard application fees. However, applicants who submit their applications on or before February 28, 2025, will still benefit from the previously available fee exemptions.

Changes for Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents Living in Iran

Canadian citizens and permanent residents residing in Iran should be aware of changes to the replacement of travel documents and citizenship certificates.

•            Effective March 1, 2025, Canadian citizens and permanent residents living in Iran will no longer be eligible for a fee exemption when replacing travel documents or citizenship certificates.

•            Standard Processing Fees will now apply to the following documents:

◦            Canadian travel document

◦            Canadian citizenship certificate

◦            Permanent resident travel document

Those who applied on or before February 28, 2025, will still be processed with the previous fee exemptions.

Next Steps for Affected Individuals

If you are an Iranian national in Canada and need to apply for a work permit, study permit extension, or visitor record, here’s what you need to do:

1.         Confirm Your Eligibility
Make sure you arrived in Canada on or before February 28, 2025, and hold valid temporary resident status.

2.         Prepare Your Application
Gather all required documents, such as proof of identity and your current status in Canada.

3.         Submit Your Application Online
Apply through the IRCC online portal or through our company.

4.         Stay Informed About Fees
Remember that applications submitted after March 1, 2025, will require standard fees. Ensure you’re aware of the updated cost for your application.

Conclusion

These changes to the special measures for Iranian nationals in Canada will affect those seeking to extend their stay or apply for permits. It’s crucial to understand the new requirements and submit your applications on time to avoid disruptions in your status. If you’re unsure about the process or need assistance, consider consulting with our immigration consultants and lawyers to help navigate these changes smoothly.