Canada’s New Support Measures for Iranian Temporary Residents
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News Release: Canada’s Commitment to Iranian Temporary Residents
In response to the severe human rights abuses by Iran’s regime, Canada is taking steps to protect Iranians in the country and keep families united. Due to the ongoing crackdown on protestors, many Iranians may prefer to extend their stay in Canada rather than return home.
On February 23, 2023, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, announced new initiatives to assist Iranian temporary residents in Canada. From March 1, 2023, Iranians can more easily extend their temporary status and transition between streams, enabling them to study, work, or visit family. Additionally, an open work permit will be available for Iranians in Canada, with priority processing for their applications.
Moreover, Canada is waiving specific processing fees for Iranians extending their stay. Passport and permanent resident travel document fees will also be waived for Canadians and permanent residents in Iran who wish to leave the country.
Canada is also reviewing other programs, such as the Human Rights Defenders stream, which supports those defending human rights worldwide.
These actions follow previous sanctions against Iran’s oppressive regime. Canada remains vigilant and ready to adjust its response to Iranians’ evolving needs.
Statements from Canadian Officials
“Canada will not stand idly by in the face of these aggressions as the Iranian regime continues its ongoing human rights violations. Our government is continuing to stand up for the people of Iran by making it easier for Iranians who wish to extend their stay here in Canada to be with their families, and allowing them to continue to work and study in safety. We will continue to work closely with the Iranian-Canadian community who is resolved to shed light on the repressive actions of the Iranian regime.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“No matter why you are here, during this time of great uncertainty for the Iranian people, Canada remains committed to supporting the Iranian Canadian community. With these new measures, we hope to ease the hardship they’re currently facing by making it easier for them to stay longer in a place where it is safe to live and work. And perhaps, one day, call home.”
– The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources
Key Information
- On October 7, 2022, Canada recognized the Iranian regime for gross human rights violations, making senior officials inadmissible under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
- The new measures are effective from March 1, 2023, to February 28, 2024.
- Details on applying for these measures will be available on Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s website starting March 1, 2023.
- Canada offers three refugee resettlement streams: the Government-Assisted Refugees Program, the Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program, and the Blended Visa Office-Referred Program.
Associated Links
- Temporary public policy for nationals of Iran in Canada as temporary residents
- Canada imposes new sanctions against Iranian regime
- Sanctions – Gross and systematic human rights violations in Iran
- Canadian sanctions related to Iran
Contact Information
Contacts for media only:
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
What are the new measures for Iranian temporary residents in Canada?
The measures allow Iranians to extend their temporary status, move between streams, and apply for an open work permit. Fee waivers are also part of the measures.
How long will these measures be in effect?
The measures are available from March 1, 2023, to February 28, 2024.
Where can I find more information on applying for these measures?
Details will be available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website starting March 1, 2023.
What resettlement programs does Canada offer for refugees?
Canada provides three resettlement streams: Government-Assisted Refugees, Private Sponsorship of Refugees, and Blended Visa Office-Referred Program.
What actions has Canada taken against the Iranian regime?
Canada has imposed sanctions and declared the regime as engaging in gross human rights violations, barring senior officials from entering Canada.
