In addition, foreign nationals in Canada affected by wildfires who hold employer-specific temporary resident work permits will be able to transition to an open work permit, Miller said on July 22, 2024.
The immigration minister said such “special measures” and others are in effect until Nov. 30, 2024.
“Our measures will simplify the process for Canadians, permanent residents and temporary residents to replace lost documents,” Miller said in a statement.
Notably, the announcement from the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) states that international students, temporary foreign workers and other visitors directly affected by the wildfires, and whose status will expire by Nov. 30, 2024, are also eligible to restore or extend their status in Canada or to replace a status document, free of charge.
“This means that temporary workers who are unable to work because their workplace is closed due to the fires will be able to extend their status,” IRCC said. “In addition, international students can extend their study permits if their classes are delayed or cancelled and finish their studies without penalty.”
The immigration department said additional measures have also been put in place to exempt foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to help fight wildfires from paying application fees and biometrics fees. The government said the “proactive measure serves as both a gesture of gratitude and as a means to facilitate their critical work.”
According to IRCC, approximately 5,600 foreign emergency services personnel came to Canada’s aid to combat wildfires in 2023.
“To the first responders and firefighters across the country, as well as the foreign emergency support personnel entering Canada to assist in the response, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your bravery and dedication in protecting our communities,” Miller said.
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