Canada Extends Support for Palestinians Amidst Crisis

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Government’s Announcement of Extended Measures

August 1, 2025—Ottawa— In response to the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Canada is taking significant steps to assist Palestinians unable to return home. The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, declared the extension of special measures for Palestinians currently in Canada.

These measures, initially introduced in December 2023, permit Palestinians in Canada and the foreign national family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who left Gaza after October 7, 2023, to apply for fee-exempt permits. These include study permits, open work permits, temporary resident permits, or extensions of their temporary resident status.

Canada’s Commitment to Humanitarian Assistance

Canada is at the forefront of global efforts to provide sanctuary to displaced Gazans. The country offers financial assistance, interim federal health coverage, and comprehensive settlement services for new arrivals. As of July 8, 2025, over 1,750 individuals have cleared security checks and are approved to enter Canada, with more than 860 having already arrived safely.

Continued Advocacy and Efforts

Efforts are ongoing to support those who have applied for the pathway for extended family members but remain in Gaza. The Canadian government continues to push for their safe exit, although the final decision isn’t Canada’s to make. Applications for extended family members are still being processed, with fee-exempt work or study permits available for successful applicants once in Canada.

The government remains vigilant, monitoring the evolving Middle Eastern situation and adjusting responses as needed.

Official Statements

“The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is devastating. Extending these measures will build on the work we’ve done to provide a temporary refuge for Palestinians in Canada who can’t safely return home.”
– The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Key Statistics

By June 30, 2025, there were 2,555 Palestinian passport holders on work, study, or temporary resident permits in Canada, including those who did not apply under the special measures.
As of July 8, 2025, IRCC had received 970 applications under the special measures for Palestinians in Canada.
Canadians in the region are advised to register with the Government of Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad service for important updates.

Additional Resources

Contact Information

Media Relations
People and Communications Sector
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca

FAQs

What are the special measures for Palestinians in Canada?

These measures allow Palestinians in Canada to apply for fee-exempt permits, including study, work, and temporary resident permits.

How many Palestinians have been approved to come to Canada?

As of July 8, 2025, over 1,750 individuals have been approved to enter Canada.

Is Canada still processing applications for those in Gaza?

Yes, Canada continues to process applications for extended family members and advocates for their safe exit from Gaza.

How can Canadians in the region receive updates?

Canadians should register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service for direct updates.

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Canada extends temporary measures for Palestinians in Canada