Canada launches temporary public policy allowing Palestinians and eligible family members in Canada to apply for or extend open work permits from Aug 1, 2026 to Dec 30, 2027

Canada launches temporary public policy allowing Palestinians and eligible family members in Canada to apply for or extend open work permits from Aug 1, 2026 to Dec 30, 2027

Summary: Canada has extended in-Canada immigration measures for Palestinians and eligible family members, allowing applications for new or extended open work permits between 2026-08-01 and 2027-12-30, with standard fees and specific eligibility rules. Source: IRCC; Date of update: 2026-07-31. Canada has introduced a new temporary public policy that keeps humanitarian immigration measures in place for Palestinians and eligible family members who are already in Canada. The policy runs from 2026-08-01 to 2027-12-30, bridging the measures that expired on 2026-07-31. Source: IRCC
Date of update: 2026-07-31
Program affected: Work Permit, TRV Under the policy, eligible individuals in Canada may apply to extend an open work permit issued under prior Palestinian public policies. IRCC also indicates that individuals who have not previously applied under those policies may be able to apply under the new public policy, subject to eligibility. Eligibility highlights (extension pathway):
- You hold a Palestinian passport/travel document issued by the State of Palestine; you are in Canada with valid temporary resident status (excluding temporary resident permit holders); you have a valid open work permit issued under a Palestinian public policy; you are in Canada when you apply and when a decision is made; and this is your first extension under the new policy. You can extend once under this policy.
- Or, you are a foreign national family member of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you and that family member left Palestine on or after 2023-10-07, you are in Canada with valid temporary resident status (excluding temporary resident permit holders), you hold a valid open work permit issued under a Palestinian public policy, you are in Canada at application and decision, and this is your first extension under the new policy. You can extend once under this policy. Family member definition: spouse or common-law partner; dependent child (yours, your spouse’s or common-law partner’s); or a dependent child of a dependent child. Application notes:
- Standard application fees apply.
- IRCC directs applicants to its online “Tell us about your situation” tool to confirm eligibility and obtain application steps.
- Information on the measures that expired 2026-07-31 remains available for reference. Background public policies referenced by IRCC include measures signed on 2023-12-16, 2024-03-07, 2024-06-11 (extensions), and 2025-07-31 addressing Palestinians and certain family members in Canada. Independent analysis
- Positive impacts: The extension provides continuity of status and work authorization, reducing disruptions for affected Palestinians and eligible family members in Canada. A one-time extension under a clear timeframe offers short-term labor market stability and humanitarian relief.
- Limitations/risks: The policy is in-Canada only and excludes temporary resident permit holders, narrowing access. The one-time extension cap may create a status cliff after 2027-12-30 unless further measures are introduced. Processing volumes could rise, and applicants must maintain valid temporary resident status throughout.
- Practical takeaway: Eligible holders of open work permits issued under prior policies should apply promptly within the window and monitor IRCC updates regarding post-2027 options. For full eligibility details and how to apply, consult IRCC.

Closing: The measures take effect on 2026-08-01. Eligible individuals should review IRCC guidance and submit applications in time to maintain lawful status and work authorization.

Tags: Canada immigration, IRCC, Palestinians, open work permit, temporary public policy, work permit extension, TRV, humanitarian measures, family reunification, Gaza crisis, in-Canada applications, 2026 immigration updates