March 4, 2026 – Ottawa – The Government of Canada has announced an extension of certain temporary special measures for Iranian nationals who are currently in Canada. These measures were originally introduced in February 2023 in response to instability in Iran and were designed to provide temporary support to eligible Iranian nationals already in the country.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) confirmed that new targeted measures will continue to support eligible Iranian nationals who are living and working in Canada. The updated policy allows certain individuals to apply for an extension of their work permit.
Under these measures, Iranian nationals who hold a valid work permit issued on or before February 28, 2025, may apply to extend their work authorization. According to IRCC, the measures will remain in effect until March 31, 2027.
Applicants seeking to extend their work permit under these measures must pay the standard government processing fees associated with work permit extensions.
The policy specifically applies to individuals who currently hold valid work permits that meet the eligibility criteria. Applications submitted after the March 31, 2027 deadline will not be considered under these temporary measures.
IRCC has also confirmed that individuals who wish to extend their stay in Canada as visitors or students must apply through the regular IRCC processes. The temporary special measures announced for Iranian nationals apply only to the extension of eligible work permits.
Canada first introduced temporary measures for Iranian nationals in February 2023 following developments in Iran. These measures were intended to provide temporary support to eligible Iranian nationals already in Canada. The latest announcement extends certain components of these measures.
Individuals who wish to apply for a work permit extension under the temporary measures should review the eligibility criteria and application procedures provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Information on application requirements and submission procedures is available through official IRCC resources.
Canada offers a variety of immigration programs and temporary resident options, including work permits, study permits, visitor status, and pathways to permanent residence. These programs are administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Conclusion
The Government of Canada has extended certain temporary special measures for Iranian nationals who are currently in Canada. Eligible individuals with a valid work permit issued on or before February 28, 2025 may apply to extend their work authorization. These measures will remain in effect until March 31, 2027, and standard processing fees apply. Individuals seeking to extend their stay as visitors or students must apply through the regular IRCC processes.
Contact Information
For more information about this policy or assistance with Canadian immigration applications, individuals may contact Jain Immigration Law:
Toronto, Ontario
www.jainimmigrationlaw.com
416-548-5533
Disclosure
This blog is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies and procedures may change without notice. Individuals should consult the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or seek professional legal advice regarding their specific circumstances.