Canada Special Measures for Iranians 2026
As of October 2, 2026, the only special measure for Iranian nationals in Canada is a work permit extension, for permits issued on or before February 28, 2025. Applications must be submitted by March 31, 2027.
Apply By
March 31, 2027
Extension Length
Up to 2 years
Covered
Work permits only
Government Fees
$155 + $85
What Are Canada's Special Measures for Iran?
Canada introduced temporary special measures for Iranian nationals in Canada in 2023, after the unrest that followed the death of Mahsa Amini. The first set of measures, which waived fees and made it easier for Iranians to extend or change their temporary status, expired on February 28, 2025.
A revised public policy took effect on March 1, 2026 and expires on March 31, 2027. It is much narrower. According to IRCC, it covers Iranian work permit holders in Canada only, and no other temporary measures are in place for Iranian applicants.
If your work permit was issued on or before February 28, 2025, you may apply to extend it from inside Canada once. If you are a visitor or a student, or your permit was issued later, you use the regular application process instead. The policy text is published on IRCC's revised public policy page.
For the background on what changed and why, read our news analysis of the 2026 special measures changes.
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Key Facts About the 2026 Special Measures
The four rules that decide whether you can use the Iranian work permit extension.
Work Permit Extension Only
Since March 1, 2026, the only special measure is an extension of a valid work permit for Iranian nationals who are already working in Canada.
Permit Issued by Feb 28, 2025
Your current work permit must have been issued no later than February 28, 2025, and must still be valid when you apply and when IRCC decides.
One Extension Per Person
If you were already issued a work permit under the March 1, 2026 special measures, you cannot get a second one.
Up to 2 Years
An approved extension can be valid for up to 2 years, but never past the expiry date of your passport.
How the Special Measures Changed
Temporary special measures for Iranian nationals in Canada begin, backdated to this date.
The original special measures expire. Applications received after this date are not covered by them.
A revised public policy takes effect, limited to work permit extensions for Iranians in Canada.
The revised policy expires. Your application must be submitted on or before this date. IRCC can revoke the policy at any time without notice.
Who Is Eligible for the Iranian Work Permit Extension?
You must meet every condition below, based on IRCC's published policy.
- You are an Iranian national with a valid passport
- You are in Canada with a valid work permit when you apply, and when a decision is made on your application
- Your valid work permit was issued no later than February 28, 2025
- You have not already been issued a work permit under the March 1, 2026 special measures
- You meet the general eligibility and admissibility requirements for a work permit (security, health, funds, intent to leave at the end of your stay)
Who Is Not Covered Anymore
Visitors in Canada
Iranian visitors can no longer change to another permit under special measures. Apply to extend your visitor record through the regular process.
Study Permit Holders
Iranian students can no longer change permit type under special measures. Extend your study permit through the regular process.
Permits Issued After Feb 28, 2025
If your current work permit was issued after February 28, 2025, you are outside the policy and need a regular work permit application.
Applicants Outside Canada
You must be physically in Canada with a valid work permit. The measures do not apply to people applying from abroad.
Important Eligibility Note
Being Iranian is not enough on its own. The extension is tied to the work permit you hold today. If your permit was issued after February 28, 2025, or you have no valid permit, speak to an RCIC before you apply so you do not lose status.
How to Extend Your Work Permit Under the Special Measures
The steps below follow IRCC's instructions for Iranian workers in Canada.
Confirm You Qualify
Check your work permit issue date (it must be on or before February 28, 2025), that it is still valid, and that you have not already received an extension under the 2026 measures.
Check Your Passport Expiry
IRCC cannot issue a work permit past the expiry date of your passport. If your passport expires within 2 years, renew it before you apply.
Sign In to Your IRCC Account
Apply online from within Canada through your IRCC secure account. If a disability or a system problem stops you from applying online, contact the IRCC Client Support Centre.
Complete the Extension Application
Fill in the Application to extend your worker status and upload a copy of your passport or travel document under Supporting Documents.
Pay the Fees and Submit
Pay at the end of the application: work permit processing fee ($155), biometrics ($85 for one person, up to $170 for a family if eligible), plus the open work permit fee ($100) only if you are applying for an open work permit.
Give Biometrics If Asked
IRCC will tell you whether you need to give biometrics. Follow the instructions in your account and book the appointment promptly.
Keep Working Under Maintained Status
If you apply before your permit expires and it expires while IRCC is processing your application, you are considered to have maintained status. You can stay and keep working under the conditions of your expiring permit.
Processing times change often. Check IRCC's current figures on our processing times by country page.
Government Fees
Fees listed by IRCC for the extension. The earlier fee waivers ended with the original measures.
Planning Permanent Residence While You Work
The extension buys time but does not lead to permanent residence by itself. Start planning your PR route early. Try the CRS calculator or read our Express Entry guide.
Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
- Needs skilled Canadian work experience (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3) gained with valid work authorization
- Language test results at the CLB level required for your occupation level
- You enter the Express Entry pool and wait for an invitation based on your CRS score
Federal Skilled Worker and Provincial Nominee Programs
- Express Entry candidates can also qualify through the Federal Skilled Worker Program
- A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points and usually needs a province-specific stream
- Each province sets its own occupation, job offer and settlement criteria
Important Notes
- IRCC may revoke the policy at any time without prior notice, so do not wait for the March 31, 2027 deadline.
- You must still hold a valid work permit at the time of decision, not only at the time of application.
- Do not leave Canada while your application is pending without taking advice. If you lose your status, you can no longer use the policy.
- Keep your passport valid. IRCC will not issue a permit longer than your passport.
- Use IRCC's web form and write "Iran2023" in the text box if you have a question about your application.
- Consider working with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant if your permit history is complicated.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming visitor or study permit holders can still apply under special measures
- Applying when the current work permit was issued after February 28, 2025
- Letting the work permit expire before submitting the extension
- Planning on a second extension under the same policy
- Applying for a permit that would run past the passport expiry date
- Missing the biometrics instruction from IRCC
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Canada special measures for Iranians
What are Canada's special measures for Iranians in 2026?
Who can apply for the Iranian work permit extension?
Can Iranian students and visitors still use the special measures?
Can I apply for the extension from outside Canada?
How long is the extended work permit valid?
Can I extend my work permit a second time under these measures?
What does the extension cost?
What happens if my work permit expires while IRCC is processing my extension?
Does the extension lead to permanent residence?
Source: IRCC, Situation in Iran: temporary immigration measures for workers in Canada (updated August 28, 2026).
Not Sure Your Work Permit Qualifies for the Extension?
Our RCIC-licensed consultants work with Iranian clients on status and permanent residence. Book a consultation to check your permit dates, your options before March 31, 2027, and your route to permanent residence.
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Each case is unique and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) before making immigration decisions.