Good News for Iranian Nationals in Canada: Apply for Special Open Work Permits Until 2026
The Canadian government has extended a special immigration policy allowing eligible Iranian nationals in Canada to apply for open work permits and study permits. This policy, first introduced in response to civil unrest in Iran, will now remain in effect until February 28, 2026.
This extension provides a great opportunity for Iranians already in Canada to continue their stay, work, and study without the usual restrictions. If you are an Iranian national with valid temporary resident status, you may be eligible to apply under this special provision.
Who Can Apply?
This special policy applies to Iranian nationals who:
✔ Arrived in Canada on or before February 28, 2025 ✔ Hold valid temporary resident status (visitor, student, or worker) ✔ Are applying for a new work permit, work permit extension, or a first-time study permit
This policy will remain in effect until February 28, 2026.
Benefits of the Special Open Work Permit for Iranians
📌 Open Work Permits: Eligible applicants can apply for an open work permit in Canada, which means they are not restricted to a specific employer.
📌 Work Permit Validity: These work permits can be issued for up to two years.
📌 No Previous Work Permit Needed: Iranians without an existing work permit can also apply.
📌 Priority Processing: Applications under this policy will receive faster processing times.
Special Study Permit Benefits
📚 Initial Study Permits: Iranian nationals who want to start studying in Canada can apply for a new study permit from within Canada.
📌 Requirements:
- Enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living costs
- Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) if required
⚠ Note: Extensions for existing study permits are not covered under this special policy. If you need to extend your study permit, you must follow the regular application process.
Changes to the Policy in 2025
Some provisions from the previous policy have been removed in this extension:
❌ Visitor Status Extensions: Iranians applying to extend their stay as visitors are no longer eligible.
❌ Study Permit Extensions: Those seeking to extend existing study permits must now apply through the standard process.
❌ Fee Exemptions Removed: Applications submitted on or after March 1, 2025, will no longer qualify for fee waivers. Applications sent before February 28, 2025, will still be processed under the old fee exemption rules.
Why Was This Policy Created?
The Canadian government introduced this temporary public policy in response to the civil unrest in Iran that began in 2022. The tragic killing of Mahsa Amini by Iran’s so-called morality police led to widespread protests and an unstable situation for many Iranian citizens. In response, Canada created this special immigration policy to help Iranians already in Canada remain in the country legally, without unnecessary restrictions.
How to Apply?
📌 Work Permit Applications: If you qualify, you can apply for an open work permit through the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
📌 Study Permit Applications: New students should apply for a study permit as per the standard requirements.
📌 Processing Time: Since applications are given priority processing, eligible applicants should expect a faster response from IRCC.
Get Professional Help with Your Work Permit Application!
If you’re an Iranian national looking to apply for a special open work permit or study permit, it’s best to get expert guidance.
👉 Schedule a Work Permit Consultation 👈
Act Now! This special program is only available until February 28, 2026. Don’t miss your chance to secure your future in Canada!
