October 29, 2025

Canada Extends Special Immigration Measures for Sudanese Nationals: What You Need to Know

Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian support by extending special immigration measures for Sudanese nationals currently in the country. Originally introduced in April 2023 in response to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, these temporary measures provide critical relief—including fee waivers and open work permit access—for individuals unable to safely return home. Whether you’re seeking an immigration consultant in Kitchener, a top immigration consultant in Toronto, or expert advice in Mississauga, Brampton, Scarborough, or London Ontario, Sayal Immigration is here to guide Sudanese nationals through every step of this extended program.

Understanding the Extended Special Measures

On October 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that special measures supporting Sudanese nationals will continue beyond the original expiry date. This extension allows eligible individuals to apply for new open work permits, study permits, or extensions of their temporary resident status—all without paying application fees. The measures aim to help Sudanese nationals remain safely in Canada during the ongoing conflict in their home country, removing financial and administrative barriers at a time of profound uncertainty.

For complete official details, visit the Government of Canada’s announcement page.

Who Is Eligible for These Special Measures?

The extended measures apply to Sudanese nationals who are currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status. This includes individuals holding:

  • Visitor records

  • Study permits

  • Work permits

  • Temporary resident permits

If your temporary status is nearing expiry, or if you wish to change your status—for example, from a visitor to a worker or student—you may be eligible to apply under these special measures without incurring the usual government processing fees. For those living in Ontario cities like Mississauga or seeking the best immigration consultant in Brampton, Sayal Immigration can assess your eligibility and guide you through the application process with personalized support.

Key Benefits of the Extension

The extended special measures offer several significant advantages:

Fee Waivers

Eligible Sudanese nationals are exempt from paying:

  • Temporary resident status extension fees

  • Open work permit application fees

  • Study permit application fees

  • Biometric collection fees

This financial relief is crucial for individuals and families who may be facing economic hardship due to the crisis in Sudan.

Open Work Permit Access

One of the most valuable aspects of the program is the ability to apply for an open work permit. An open work permit allows you to work for nearly any employer in Canada without needing a specific job offer or a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This flexibility is essential for securing employment and achieving financial independence while residing in Toronto, Scarborough, or any other Canadian city.

Study Permit Flexibility

Sudanese students or those wishing to pursue education in Canada can apply for new study permits or extend existing ones without fees. This enables continued access to education at institutions across Ontario, including universities in Kitchener, Mississauga, and London Ontario.

How to Apply Under the Special Measures

Applying under these extended measures requires careful attention to eligibility requirements and documentation. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

  1. Confirm Your Eligibility: Ensure you are a Sudanese national currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status.

  2. Gather Required Documents: This typically includes a copy of your passport and a letter stating your exemption under the special measures (reference code: SD2023).

  3. Submit Your Application Online: Use the IRCC online portal to apply for your permit extension or status change.

  4. No Fees Required: When prompted for payment, indicate your fee exemption status as per the special measures.

Navigating the application process can be complex, especially during times of stress. That’s why consulting with an immigration consultant in Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, or other Ontario locations can make a significant difference. Sayal Immigration’s RCIC-certified consultants ensure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.

Why These Measures Matter

The conflict in Sudan has displaced thousands and created immense uncertainty for Sudanese nationals worldwide. Canada’s decision to extend these special measures reflects a broader commitment to humanitarian protection and offering safe haven to those affected by global crises. By removing financial barriers and providing access to work and study opportunities, Canada enables Sudanese nationals to rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.

For more information on Canada’s response to the crisis in Sudan, visit the IRCC special measures overview.

How Sayal Immigration Can Help

Sayal Immigration has extensive experience supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds through complex immigration processes. Our team understands the unique challenges faced by Sudanese nationals during this difficult time and offers:

  • Personalized Eligibility Assessments: We review your current status and advise on the best application pathway.

  • Document Preparation and Review: Ensure all paperwork is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

  • Application Submission Support: We guide you through the online process and help you claim fee exemptions properly.

  • Post-Approval Assistance: From securing employment to accessing community resources, we support your integration in cities like Toronto, Brampton, Kitchener, and Mississauga.

Whether you are looking for the best immigration consultant in London,Ontario, the top immigration consultant in Mississauga, or trusted support in London Ontario, Sayal Immigration is your local partner.

Conclusion

The extension of special measures for Sudanese nationals is a lifeline for individuals and families unable to return home safely. By offering fee waivers, open work permits, and study permit access, Canada provides not just temporary relief but a pathway to stability and self-sufficiency. If you or someone you know is affected by these measures, don’t navigate the process alone. Contact Sayal Immigration today for expert, compassionate guidance from the best immigration consultant in Canada.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Who qualifies for the extended special measures for Sudanese nationals? A1: Sudanese nationals currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status (visitor, study, or work permits) are eligible to apply for extensions or new permits without fees.

Q2: What types of permits can I apply for under these measures? A2: You can apply for open work permits, study permits, or extensions of your current temporary status without paying application or biometric fees.

Q3: Do I need a job offer to get an open work permit under these measures? A3: No. Open work permits allow you to work for any eligible employer in Canada without a job offer or LMIA.

Q4: How long are these special measures in effect? A4: The measures have been extended beyond October 28, 2025, with no specified end date announced yet. Check the IRCC website for updates.

Q5: Can I apply for permanent residence under these measures? A5: While the special measures focus on temporary status, Sudanese nationals may also explore permanent residence pathways with fee waivers if they have family in Canada. Consult Sayal Immigration for details.

Q6: How can Sayal Immigration help me with my application? A6: Sayal Immigration offers personalized consultations, document preparation, application submission support, and post-arrival settlement assistance in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Kitchener, Scarborough, and across Ontario.

Q7: Where can I find official information on these measures? A7: Visit the Government of Canada’s official announcement for complete details.

Q8: Are there any application fees I still need to pay? A8: No. Eligible applicants are exempt from all temporary resident application fees, biometric fees, and work/study permit fees under these special measures.