Canada Introduces New Immigration Measures for Turkish and Syrian Nationals

Date: March 18, 2023
Location: Mississauga, Ontario

In response to the catastrophic earthquakes that have ravaged Türkiye and Syria, the Canadian government has taken decisive action to prioritize immigration processes for individuals affected by this disaster. This includes both temporary and permanent residence applications, as well as applications for refugee resettlement. In a significant move, the government is now facilitating the extension of stays for Turkish and Syrian nationals already residing in Canada.

New Supportive Measures Announced

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced a series of new measures aimed at assisting Turkish and Syrian temporary residents who are currently unable to return to their homeland due to the extensive destruction.

Key Provisions

• Free Status Extension: Effective March 29, 2023, Turkish and Syrian nationals in Canada can apply to extend their stay—whether for study, work, or family visits—without incurring any fees.

• Open Work Permit Pathway: A new opportunity allows Turkish and Syrian nationals already in Canada to obtain open work permits, thereby facilitating easier movement between temporary streams.

• Waiver for Travel Document Requirements: Acknowledging that many permanent residence applicants may have lost their travel documents in the earthquakes, Canada will waive the requirement for passports or travel documents to approve permanent resident visas.

• Facilitating Returns for Canadians and Permanent Residents: To aid Canadian citizens and permanent residents from Türkiye and Syria, the government is waiving fees for temporary passports, limited-validity passports, emergency travel documents, Canadian citizenship certificates, and permanent resident travel documents.

Prioritizing Applications and Providing Shelter

These newly introduced measures build upon ongoing efforts to expedite overseas applications from those directly impacted by the earthquakes. Both new and existing applications for temporary residence, as well as permanent residence applications, are being processed with urgency. This includes prioritizing visitor visa applications for immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, enabling them to reunite with loved ones in Canada.

Furthermore, in collaboration with United Nations partners, Canada is providing temporary shelter for refugees within its resettlement programs who have been severely affected while their applications are processed. The government remains committed to closely monitoring the evolving needs in the region and will adjust its response to ensure comprehensive support.

Canada’s proactive measures highlight its dedication to offering relief and support to those in dire need, reinforcing its role as a humanitarian leader on the global stage. As the situation unfolds, Canada continues to stand ready to adapt and extend its assistance, ensuring that those affected by these devastating events are not left behind.