Canada’s 2026 Update to Special Immigration Measures for Iranian Nationals: Key Changes and Observations
On March 4, 2026, Canada extended its special immigration measures related to the situation in Iran. However, this extension introduced the most restrictive version of the policy since it was first implemented in 2023. Although the measures are now extended until March 31, 2027, their scope has been significantly narrowed and only a limited group of individuals may benefit from them. In this blog, we have included information about ambiguities in the 2026 version of the policy, the length of work permits issued under this policy, and whether leaving Canada affect eligibility.
New Express Entry Categories and Updates to Existing Categories
On February 28, 2026, IRCC announced four new Express Entry categories and changes to the existing ones. This announcement offers renewed hope to many applicants working in Canada or with Canadian work experience, including those who recently left the country due to the inability to renew their work permits or lack of pathways to permanent residence.
