Canada Introduces Special Immigration Measures for Foreign Workers, Students Affected by Disasters
The Canadian government has rolled out temporary special immigration measures to support foreign workers, students and visitors whose lives and immigration situations have been affected by natural disasters across the country. The measures, which run from April 1, 2026, to November 30, 2028, allow eligible temporary residents up to six months to apply to restore their status after losing it, compared with the normal 90-day period. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada on its X handle on Tuesday said the measures are available to people who were directly affected by a natural disaster in Canada and had valid temporary resident status as a worker, student or visitor on the date they were affected. Natural disasters covered by the measures may include wildfires, storms, floods, hurricanes and earthquakes. Eligible workers applying to restore their status are required to submit a signed attestation explaining when and how the disaster affected them. They must also include the code “NaturalDisaster2026” and provide supporting evidence where applicable, including proof that they lived or were temporarily staying in the affected area. Workers may also be required to provide their employer’s name and address and evidence that their workplace was unable to operate because of the disaster. Students applying to restore their status must similarly provide an attestation explaining the impact of the disaster and include the “NaturalDisaster2026” code. They may also need to provide evidence of their residence or temporary stay in the affected area, as well as details of their designated learning institution. Where a school has closed because of a natural disaster, students can provide supporting evidence such as a letter from the institution, an email sent to students or a public notice confirming the closure. IRCC said students whose designated learning institutions are closed because of a disaster may be considered to be on authorised leave. Such students can pause their studies without penalty and may continue working off campus if their study permits allow it. Applicants must still pay the applicable standard fees. The department also said applicants who require urgent processing can submit an IRCC web form after applying. They should select “Request Priority Processing for my existing application” and enter “NaturalDisaster2026” in the section asking them to explain their situation, alongside reasons why their application should be prioritised. The same web form can be used by applicants who need assistance, have questions, or need to update their contact information. IRCC clarified that people who held a Temporary Resident Permit and wish to extend their stay must apply for another temporary resident permit rather than use the restoration measures. The special measures are intended to give disaster-affected temporary residents additional time to regularise their immigration status while dealing with the consequences of major natural disasters.
