The Canadian government has extended a special policy that allows Iranian nationals in Canada to apply for open work permits. This means eligible Iranians can continue to work legally in Canada without a job offer. Here’s everything you need to know about this extension in simple terms.
Who Can Apply?
This special policy is for Iranian nationals who were already in Canada on or before February 28, 2025 and have a valid temporary resident status (such as visitors, workers, or students).
The policy will now be in effect until February 28, 2026.
What Are the Benefits?
Eligible Iranians in Canada can apply for:
✅ An Open Work Permit – This allows them to work for any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer.
✅ Work Permit Extension – If they already have a work permit, they can extend it.
✅ Initial Study Permit – Those who want to study in Canada can apply for a study permit without leaving the country.
✅ Priority Processing – Applications under this policy will be processed faster than usual.
Work Permit Details
- Open work permits can be granted for up to two years.
- You don’t need an existing work permit to apply for one.
- You can work for any employer in Canada.
Study Permit Details
- If you are applying for a new study permit, you can apply from inside Canada.
- You must meet standard study permit requirements, such as:
- Being accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Showing proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
- Having a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL or TAL) if required.
- Study permit extensions are no longer covered under this policy. You must follow the regular process to extend your study permit.
What Has Changed?
Some provisions from the earlier policy have been removed:
❌ This policy no longer applies to visitor visa extensions.
❌ It does not cover study permit extensions anymore.
❌ Fee waivers are no longer available for applications submitted on or after March 1, 2025. However, applications submitted before February 28, 2025, will still benefit from the earlier fee exemptions.
Why Was This Policy Introduced?
The Canadian government first introduced this policy after the civil unrest in Iran following the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. The goal is to help Iranian nationals in Canada stay longer and have better opportunities to work and study.
1. Do I need a job offer to apply for this open work permit?
No, an open work permit lets you work for any employer in Canada without a job offer.
2. How long is the work permit valid for?
The open work permit under this policy can be valid for up to two years.
3. Can I apply if I arrived in Canada after February 28, 2025?
No, this policy is only for Iranian nationals who were already in Canada on or before February 28, 2025.
4. Can I extend my visitor visa under this policy?
No, visitor visa extensions are no longer covered under this policy.
5. Will I still get a fee waiver if I apply after March 1, 2025?
No, fee waivers are only available for applications submitted before February 28, 2025.
6. Can I extend my study permit under this policy?
No, study permit extensions must now follow the regular process.
Final Thoughts
If you’re an Iranian national in Canada, this extended policy gives you a great chance to apply for or extend a work permit without the usual restrictions. Make sure to apply before February 28, 2026, and before March 1, 2025, if you want to benefit from the fee waivers!
For more details or assistance with your application, contact Ask Kubeir today! 🚀
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Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details.