• 1 February 2024

Special Measures for Iranian Temporary Residents Extended by Canada

The Government of Canada has acted decisively to help Iranian temporary residents in Canada as well as Canadian nationals and permanent residents residing in Iran following the tragic death of Mahsa Amini and the subsequent crackdown on protests in Iran. These extraordinary measures, which were first imposed in reaction to the upheaval, have now been extended until February 28, 2025, demonstrating Canada’s steadfast dedication to supporting the Iranian people during this difficult period. 

Support for Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents in Iran: Canada is offering assistance by waiving fees for passport and permanent resident travel document applications to Canadian citizens and permanent residents living in Iran who want to leave the nation. This guarantees that those who are struggling in Iran can get the travel credentials they need without having to worry about paying for them, enabling them to return to Canada or, if necessary, seek safety elsewhere. 

Canada’s decision to prolong these special measures is based on its sincere concern for the welfare of those impacted by the turmoil in Iran. Many Iranians have fled to Canada, either permanently or temporarily, in response to the terrible death of Mahsa Amini and the continued unrest in their homeland. Acknowledging the difficulties encountered by these people, Canada is dedicated to offering assistance and support to dissolve their worries and guarantee their safety and welfare. 

There are some conditions the audience should look for which are as follows: 

Conditions (eligibility requirements): 

Based on public policy considerations, delegated officers may grant an exemption from the requirements of the Regulations identified if: 

  1. The foreign national 
  2. Is a national of Iran in Canada with valid temporary resident status; and b. Has applied for 
  3. an extension of their authorization to remain in Canada as a 

temporary resident under section 181 of the Regulations, or 

  1. a temporary resident permit. 
  2. The foreign national 
  3. Is a national of Iran in Canada with valid temporary resident status; b. Has applied for 
  4. an extension of their authorization to remain in Canada as a 

temporary resident under section 181 of the Regulations, or

  1. a temporary resident permit; and 
  2. Has applied for a work permit under section 200 or 201 of the Regulations. 
  3. The foreign national 
  4. Is a national of Iran in Canada with valid temporary resident status; b. Has applied for 
  5. an extension of their authorization to remain in Canada as a 

temporary resident under section 181 of the Regulations, or 

  1. a temporary resident permit; and 
  2. has applied for a study permit under section 216 or 217 of the Regulations from within Canada. 

Provisions of the Regulations for which an exemption may be granted: 

For foreign nationals who meet the conditions listed in 1: 

  • Subsection 298(1) – the requirement to pay an application processing fee for a temporary resident permit; 
  • Subsection 305(1) – the requirements to pay an application processing fee for an extension of authorization to remain in Canada as temporary resident; ? Subsection 315.1(1) – the requirement to pay for the provision of service in relation to the collection of biometric information. 

For foreign nationals who meet the conditions listed in 2: 

  • Paragraphs 199(a)-(i) of the Regulations – the requirements that a foreign national must meet in order to apply for a work permit after entering Canada; ? Paragraph 200(1)(c) of the Regulations – the requirement to be described under this paragraph of the Regulations; 
  • Subsection 298(1) – the requirement to pay an application processing fee for a temporary resident permit; 
  • Subsection 299(1) – the requirement to pay an application processing fee for a work permit; 
  • Subsection 315.1(1) – the requirement to pay for the provision of service in relation to the collection of biometric information. 

For foreign nationals who meet the conditions listed in 3: 

  • Section 213 of the Regulations – the requirement to apply for a study permit before entering Canada; 
  • Paragraphs 215(1)(a)-(g) of the Regulations – the requirements that a foreign national must meet in order to apply for a study permit after entering Canada; ? Subsection 298(1) – the requirement to pay an application processing fee for a temporary resident permit;
  • Subsection 300(1) – the requirement to pay an application processing fee for a study permit; 
  • Subsection 315.1(1) – the requirement to pay for the provision of service in relation to the collection of biometric information. 

Other Admissibility and Selection Criteria 

Foreign nationals eligible under this public policy are subject to all other legislative obligations and admissibility and selection requirements not exempted under this, or another, public policy. 

Effective Date and Expiration 

This public policy comes into effect on February 29, 2024. 

This public policy applies to applications received on or after the date it comes into effect. 

This public policy expires on February 28, 2025, and may be revoked at any time without prior notice. 

In conclusion, Canada is sending a strong message of support and sympathy to those impacted by the ongoing upheaval by extending its special measures for Iranian temporary residents and helping Canadian citizens and permanent residents living in Iran. Canada demonstrates its commitment to defending human rights and fostering peace and stability on the international scene by providing useful assistance and reiterating its commitment to standing with the people of Iran. The extension of these measures is indicative of Canada’s dedication to respecting human rights and assisting individuals pursuing justice and freedom. 

Canada reinforces its principles of compassion, inclusivity, and solidarity with people experiencing oppression and persecution worldwide by standing with the people of Iran during this turbulent time

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