Canada unveils special immigration measures for disaster-affected foreign workers, students

Canada is implementing special immigration measures to support temporary residents whose lives and legal status have been disrupted by natural disasters across the country. These temporary measures, effective from April 1, 2026, to November 30, 2028, offer a crucial lifeline to foreign workers, students, and visitors.

A key provision allows eligible temporary residents up to six months to apply for the restoration of their status after it has lapsed. This is a significant extension from the standard 90-day period, providing much-needed flexibility for those displaced or unable to act within the usual timeframe due to disaster-related circumstances.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) specified that the measures apply to individuals who held valid temporary resident status as a worker, student, or visitor on the date they were directly impacted by a natural disaster. Covered events include wildfires, storms, floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes.

To utilize these measures, eligible workers must submit a signed attestation detailing how the disaster affected them, along with the code "NaturalDisaster2026." Supporting evidence, such as proof of residence in the affected area or details about their employer's inability to operate due to the disaster, may also be required. Similarly, students need to provide an attestation and the specific code, potentially including evidence of their location and details about their educational institution.

For students whose designated learning institutions have closed due to a disaster, IRCC clarified that they may be considered on authorized leave. This allows them to pause their studies without penalty and potentially continue working off-campus if permitted by their study permits. While the special measures offer relief, applicants are still required to pay standard processing fees. Those needing urgent processing can request priority through an IRCC web form, using the "NaturalDisaster2026" code.