Canada Extends Temporary Measures for Palestinians in Canada

The Government of Canada has announced an extension of the special measures for Palestinians currently in Canada who cannot safely return home. These measures, first introduced in December 2023, have been extended as of August 1, 2025, to continue supporting affected individuals and families.

Under this public policy, Palestinian passport holders in Canada and foreign national family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who left Gaza on or after October 7, 2023 can apply for fee-exempt study permits, open work permits, temporary resident permits, or extensions of temporary resident status.

This extension reflects Canada’s continued humanitarian concern for those displaced by the conflict in Gaza. It ensures that Palestinians who are already in Canada are not forced to return to unsafe conditions and can maintain lawful status while the crisis continues.

As of mid-2025, more than 860 people have arrived safely in Canada from Gaza, and over 1,750 have been approved to come after passing security screening. These measures also protect the legal status of those already here, offering a temporary but important layer of stability.

What It Means for Applicants

If you hold a Palestinian passport and are already in Canada, you can apply to stay longer without paying government processing fees.

Applications made under this public policy are not evaluated under the usual strict temporary-resident criteria. Officers are not expected to heavily scrutinize ties to your home country, your financial resources, or your intent to return. The goal of this policy is humanitarian — to reduce hardship and provide lawful options for people stranded by the conflict.

However, this does not mean you should be careless. Be honest and complete in your forms, and ensure all information and supporting documents are clear and accurate. These cases are still reviewed carefully for authenticity and eligibility under the public policy.

Mehdi’s Take and the Bottom Line

This extension is a compassionate and sensible move by Canada. It recognizes that many Palestinians who are already here are living with uncertainty and cannot safely return.

My advice is simple: use this opportunity wisely.
Stay organized, extend your status before it expires, and make sure your documents are complete. Keep your study or work permit active, maintain good standing, and take this time to stabilize your situation.

This policy is not a permanent immigration program, but it’s a window of safety and relief. Treat it responsibly, stay truthful, and make good use of the chance Canada is offering.