Wildfires in Canada: Temporary Immigration, Passport and Citizenship measures

In a world increasingly challenged by natural disasters, Canada's robust disaster relief measures not only cater to its citizens but also extend crucial assistance to immigrants impacted by such crises. The recent initiatives launched by the Canadian government underline their commitment to assisting those in need.


Tailored Relief for Immigrants

Canada has a long-standing history of battling wildfires, a force of nature that can leave behind devastation and displacement. In response to the escalating situation, the government announced a series of specialized measures to support people affected by severe wildfires, including those navigating the immigration process.

Recognizing the challenges faced by citizens and immigrants in the wake of disasters, Canada has designed targeted measures offering assistance to those affected by wildfires. Those directly affected by the wildfires can apply for free to

  • replace citizenship, immigration or travel documents (including passports) that have been lost, damaged or destroyed
  • extend or restore your temporary resident status
  • transition from an employer-specific work permit to an open work permit if you’re unable to work for your current employer


Free replacement documents: Ensuring that vital identification papers are restored promptly, Canadians and immigrants in need can apply to replace lost, damaged or destroyed documents free of charge. Those living in regions directly affected by the wildfires can apply on paper for free, or receive a refund for applications submitted online. The following documents are covered under this measure:

  • visitor visa valid for 30 days or more
  • visitor record
  • study permit
  • work permit
  • record of landing (IMM 1000)
  • valid non-Canadian travel document (certificate of identity or refugee travel document) 
  • confirmation of permanent residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5668)
  • PR card
  • citizenship certificate or citizenship card
  • Canadian passport


Fee exemptions for extension and restoration of temporary resident status: Foreign nationals in Canada can apply to extend or restore their status as visitors, workers or students for free if their status

  • was valid on July 19, 2024, and
  • will expire before November 30, 2024


Restoration period: Immigrants with expiring visas or permits that cannot be renewed due to uncontrollable circumstances will be granted more time to restore their expired status. This safeguards their legal status within Canada. Foreign nationals in Canada usually have 90 calendar days to apply to restore their status after it expires. Depending on when their status expires, individuals may now have more time to restore it under these temporary special measures.

  • Status expires before September 2, 2024: Apply to restore status by November 30, 2024.
  • Status expires on or after September 2, 2024: Apply to restore it within the standard 90 calendar days.


Priority processing: Immigrants impacted by wildfires can receive priority processing of their applications. This gesture acknowledges the urgency of their situations and ensures that they can access essential services and benefits as soon as possible. For new online applications, after the application is submitted, applicants are required to submit an IRCC web form, choose 'Request Priority Processing for my existing application' and include the keyword “WFF2024” in the text box under 'Tell us about your request'.


Transition to open work permit: Foreign workers with an employer-specific work permit who are unable to work for their current employer can transition to an open work permit. If the extension application is received before the current work permit expires, applicants are considered to have maintained status. Maintained status is a legal extension of status that allows a temporary resident to stay in Canada while IRCC processes their application. This means applicants can legally stay and work in Canada under the same conditions as the previous work permit while waiting for a decision on their application.


To be eligible for consideration under these special measures, applications to replace documents or to extend or restore status must be made on or before November 30, 2024. Applicants should write and sign a letter (attestation) with their applications that explains how they are affected by the wildfires. 


Stronger together

Canada's commitment to disaster relief and support for affected individuals, including immigrants, showcases the country's dedication to humanitarian principles. By implementing measures like free document replacement and expedited processing, Canada is alleviating the burden faced by both Canadian citizens and immigrants in the wake of these destructive wildfires. As the world faces escalating natural disasters, Canada's compassionate disaster relief strategies serve as a testament to its resilience.


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