Work Permits for Iranian nationals in Canada

Work Permits for Iranian nationals: new public policy allows nationals of Iran in Canada to apply for work permits, study permits and visitor records. Immigration Canada (IRCC) has announced that as of March 1, 2023, processing fees for Iranian temporary residents who wish to extend their stay in Canada will be waived and applications will be processed on a priority basis.

The Temporary Public Policy will make it easier for Iranians who wish to extend their temporary status in Canada and to move between temporary streams, allowing Iranians to continue studying, working or visiting family by applying for a new permit from inside Canada. An open work permit pathway is available for Iranians already in Canada as well. The program will run until February 28, 2024.

This public policy will allow eligible Iranian nationals currently in Canada as temporary residents to apply for the following at no cost:

• extension of their temporary resident status in Canada,
• open work permits,
• study permits.

How to apply under these measures

Visitor to Student

You can extend your status for free if you

• are an Iranian national with a valid Iranian passport, and
• have valid temporary resident status in Canada

1. Complete the application to extend your student status
2. Upload these required documents in the “Supporting Documents” section:
   • Under “Passport”, upload a copy of your Iranian passport.
   • Under “Proof of Fee Exemption”, upload a letter stating “I am exempt from paying fees under the Iranian special measures.”

Visitor to Worker

You can apply for a free open work permit to change your status in Canada to that of a worker if you

• are an Iranian national with a valid Iranian passport, and
• have valid temporary resident status in Canada.

1. Complete the online application to extend or change the conditions on your work permit.
2. When filling out form IMM 5710, in the “Details of intended work in Canada” section, select “Open Work Permit” for question 1.
3. You don’t need to provide employer details or ask your employer to complete any steps before you apply.
4. Upload these required documents in the “Supporting Documents” section:
   • Under “Passport”, upload a copy of your Iranian passport.
   • Under “Proof of Fee Exemption”, upload a letter stating, “I am exempt from paying fees under the Iranian special measures.”

For more detailed information, please feel free to contact our office or complete our online assessment questionnaire: On-line Assessment Questionnaire