Immigration Update
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A temporary public policy allowing Iranians in Canada to apply for open work permits has officially expired. The policy, which was available to Iranian nationals who arrived in Canada by February 28, 2025, ended at midnight on March 1, 2026.
It had offered open work permits, priority processing, and the option to apply for study permits from within Canada.
Originally introduced in February 2023 following civil unrest in Iran after Mahsa Amini's death, the policy was part of Canada's broader humanitarian response to global crises. Similar measures have supported displaced individuals from Ukraine, Haiti, Gaza, and Sudan.
#canada_immigration, #iranian_nationals, #work_permits, #ircc, #open_work_permit
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clarified how work permits will be issued to applicants under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP) in 2026. Candidates who have submitted a complete permanent residence application under either pilot and hold a valid job offer may qualify for a work permit valid for up to two years while their PR application is processed.
These work permits are exempt from the labour market impact assessment (LMIA) requirement, simplifying the process for both applicants and employers.
Family members included in the PR application may also be eligible for LMIA-exempt work permits. These programs represent a practical approach to immigration that considers the needs of smaller communities across the country.
#canada_immigration, #rural_community_immigration_pilot, #francophone_community_immigration_pilot, #work_permits, #skilled_workers, #labour_shortage
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced plans for an October 2026 referendum on immigration policy, marking a significant departure from her previous support for high population growth.
The proposal comes as the province grapples with rapid demographic changes that have strained public services. Smith attributes the shift to federal immigration reforms under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, which moved away from merit-based selection toward increased temporary worker and international student visas.
Alberta's population surged by 600,000 over five years, overwhelming education and healthcare systems. The referendum will ask voters whether to limit newcomer access to provincial services and give Alberta more control over immigration levels.
Immigration lawyer Tara Pandes notes that bureaucratic delays continue to hamper efforts to attract skilled workers despite urgent labour needs.
#alberta_immigration, #canada_immigration, #skilled_workers, #population_growth, #provincial_nominee_programs
The Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR) has called on Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab to address the mounting challenges facing international students following recent policy changes.
The CCR expressed concern that shifting regulations around post-graduation work permits and provincial immigration pathways have left thousands of students uncertain about their legal status.
The Council emphasized that international students contribute significantly to Canada's economy and academic institutions and urged the government to create fair pathways to permanent residency, withdraw problematic provisions in Bill C-12, and ensure protected persons have access to domestic tuition rates at Canadian universities.
#international_students, #canada_immigration, #pgwp, #bill_c_12, #refugees, #canadian_council_for_refugees, #ccr, #permanent_residency
