Canada launches measures to support those impacted by domestic natural disasters

What Changed
– Introduction of special measures to support individuals and communities affected by domestic natural disasters, allowing for the replacement and restoration of immigration status documents.

Who is affected
– Temporary residents including international students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors impacted by natural disasters.
– Foreign emergency services personnel from visa-required countries responding to natural disasters.

Key dates
– Measures effective from April 1, 2026, until November 30, 2028.

Required actions
– Affected temporary residents can apply to restore or extend their status and renew work or study permits beyond the standard 90-day restoration period.
– Foreign emergency services personnel can arrive more quickly, with exempt fees for applications and biometric collection.