Canada Extends Temporary Immigration Measures for Palestinians Until Late 2027
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has extended temporary immigration measures for eligible Palestinians in Canada until December 30, 2027, citing the continuing conflict and the inability of many people to return safely.
The updated measures took effect on August 1, 2026, following the expiry of the previous policies on July 31, and provide two different application routes depending on the applicant’s circumstances and whether they previously used the special measures.
Under the first route, people in Canada who previously received an open work permit through one of the special public policies for Palestinians and eligible family members may apply for a one-time extension. Standard work permit, open permit and applicable biometric fees must be paid.
Applicants must be in Canada with valid temporary resident status when they apply and when a decision is made. Their current open work permit must have been issued under one of the earlier special public policies.
The second route applies to eligible people who enter Canada on or before September 30, 2027, and have not previously applied under the earlier measures. They may apply from within Canada for a fee-exempt open work permit, study permit, visitor-status extension or temporary resident permit.
Eligible applicants may include people holding a Palestinian passport or another travel document issued by the State of Palestine who have valid temporary resident status in Canada. Certain foreign-national spouses, partners and dependent children of Canadian citizens or permanent residents may also qualify if they and their Canadian family member left the Palestinian territories on or after October 7, 2023, and meet the remaining requirements.
The measures do not create a new permanent residence pathway. They are intended to help eligible temporary residents remain in Canada and access work or education until it is safe to return. Applicants should use IRCC’s official eligibility tool because the available application, applicable fees and requirements depend on their arrival date and whether they previously applied under the special measures.
As of May 31, 2026, IRCC reported 2,383 valid work permits and 236 valid study permits issued to Palestinian passport holders in Canada. Eligible arrivals may also have access to temporary federal health coverage, settlement services and financial assistance.
