(Ottawa) The federal government is putting in place temporary special measures for Iranians who would like to extend their stay in Canada rather than return home during this troubled time.
In light of the “gross and systematic violations” of human rights committed by the Iranian regime, which has taken “brutal crackdowns on protesters”, Ottawa announces special measures that will take effect on 1er March, for a year.
These measures aim to simplify the process for Iranians visiting, studying or working in Canada to extend their stay and easily switch from one temporary stream to another.
Iranians already in Canada will also be able to obtain an open work permit. Applications from Iranians in Canada will be given priority, the federal government says.
Ottawa will also waive some processing fees for Iranians who wish to stay in Canada. The Canadian government also waives passport and permanent resident travel document fees for Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are in Iran and wish to leave.
Federal Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, on behalf of his colleague from Immigration, made the announcement Thursday in North Vancouver.
“Given the gross and systemic human rights abuses taking place in Iran, some Iranians who are temporarily in Canada are rightly afraid to return home at this time,” said Minister Wilkinson.
Protests have erupted in Iran over the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in the custody of vice police. These demonstrations were violently repressed by the mullahs’ regime in place in Tehran.
In a press release, the federal government indicates that more information on how to take advantage of these new measures will be posted on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website from 1er March 2023.