The Government of Canada has extended temporary immigration measures for Sudanese nationals in Canada who are unable to return home due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. These measures, effective October 28, 2024, until October 27, 2025, aim to provide relief to Sudanese temporary residents and facilitate their continued stay in Canada.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for exemptions under this public policy, applicants must be nationals of Sudan and meet one of the following conditions:
- Extending Temporary Resident Status
- The applicant is a Sudanese national in Canada with valid temporary resident status and has applied for:
- An extension of their temporary resident status in Canada, OR
- A temporary resident permit (TRP).
- Applying for a Work Permit
- The applicant is a Sudanese national in Canada with valid temporary resident status and has applied for:
- An extension of their temporary resident status or a temporary resident permit, AND
- A work permit from within Canada.
- Applying for a Study Permit
- The applicant is a Sudanese national in Canada with valid temporary resident status and has applied for:
- An extension of their temporary resident status or a temporary resident permit, AND
- A study permit from within Canada.
- Sudanese Nationals Ready for Permanent Residence but Lacking a Passport
- The applicant is a Sudanese national outside Canadawho is approved for a permanent resident visa but cannot obtain a passport or travel document due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Fee Exemptions Under This Public Policy
Eligible Sudanese nationals do not need to pay fees for the following applications:
- Temporary Resident Applications
- Application processing fees for temporary resident permits and temporary resident extensions.
- Fees related to biometric information collection.
- Work Permit Applications
- Work permit application fees.
- Exemption from the requirement to apply for a work permit before entering Canada.
- Study Permit Applications
- Study permit application fees.
- Exemption from the requirement to apply for a study permit before entering Canada.
- Permanent Residence Applications (for those outside Canada)
- Exemption from the requirement to hold a passport or travel document.
Why This Policy Matters
- Recognizes the Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan– Canada acknowledges that Sudanese nationals may be unable to return home due to the worsening civil war.
- Ensures Legal Status for Sudanese in Canada– Those affected can continue living, working, or studying in Canada without fear of losing their status.
- Removes Financial Barriers– The waiver of application fees makes it easier for affected individuals to apply for temporary extensions, work permits, or study permits.
- Facilitates Permanent Residence Processing– Exempting passport requirements allows approved Sudanese nationals to travel to Canada even if they cannot obtain new passports.
Important Dates & Conditions
- Effective Date: October 28, 2024
- Expiration Date: October 27, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET
Applies to:
- Temporary resident applications submitted on or after October 28, 2024
- Permanent residence applications submitted on or after October 28, 2024
- Subject to Change: This policy may be revoked at any time without notice.
What This Means for Sudanese Nationals in Canada
- If you are in Canada with valid temporary resident status, you can apply for an extension, work permit, or study permit without paying fees.
- If you are outside Canada and approved for permanent residence, you do not need a passport or travel document if you cannot obtain one due to the crisis.
- These measures do not change other eligibility requirements—applicants must still meet all other admissibility and selection criteriaunder Canadian immigration law.
Need Assistance?
At Fridman and Company, we are committed to helping Sudanese nationals navigate these special immigration measures. If you need assistance with applying for an extension, work or study permit, or permanent residence, contact us today at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca for expert guidance.
For official details, visit the Government of Canada website or reach out to our team for personalized assistance.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For tailored guidance, consult an immigration lawyer.