| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Policy Effective Date | October 28, 2025 |
| Policy Expiry Date | October 27, 2026 |
| Fee Waiver Codes | '999', 'B11' |
| Eligible Applicants | Sudanese nationals with temporary resident status |
| Special Measures | Open work permits, study permit extensions |
This public policy supports Sudanese nationals who could be trapped due to deteriorating conditions in their homeland. The initiative provides flexibility and financial relief for those looking to extend their stay, change residency status, or apply for different permits in Canada.
Eligibility and Requirements
Eligible participants must be Sudanese nationals currently residing in Canada with legal temporary resident status. They can be workers, students, or visitors. Nationals must apply to extend or change their temporary stay conditions without needing a passport lost during the conflict.
Applicants outside Canada ready for permanent residency but unable to acquire a passport may still qualify. Although eligible individuals can apply within Canada, this policy excludes applications at Canadian ports of entry. Temporary residents in Canada are required to maintain their legal status, either by staying within their approved period or applying for continued status. If needed, they can apply to restore their status, bearing the restoration fee.
Fee Waivers and Application Process
The temporary measures include fee waivers impacting renewal or status change applications. Sudanese nationals applying within Canada benefit from these waivers for visitor status extensions, open work permits, and biometrics.
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you are a Sudanese national in Canada with valid temporary resident status.
- Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, such as proof of status and any relevant permit applications.
- Cite Fee Exemption: Upload a letter stating your exemption from fees under SD2023 measures when applying.
- Submit Application: Complete and submit your application via IRCC, ensuring all documents are attached.
- Maintain Status: Apply before current status expires to maintain legal residency during processing.
| Document / Item | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Status Extension | $0 CAD | Exemption code '999' |
| Open Work Permit | $0 CAD | Exemption code 'P03' |
| Biometrics | $0 CAD | Exemption code 'B11' |
| Study Permit Extension | $0 CAD | Exemption code '999' |
Special Measures for Work and Study
Applicants can apply for open work permits under this policy, facilitated within the Global Case Management System (GCMS). The work permits help Sudanese nationals stay self-reliant in Canada while they cannot safely return home. Eligible individuals can receive permits valid for up to three years, but restricted from specific occupations without medical exams.
Study permits and extensions also fall under this policy, aiding those pursuing education in Canada. Though current students without permits are within the cap's constraints, newcomers enjoy exemptions under crisis migration response. Applications for study permits must be supplemented with provincial attestation letters unless exempted under specific circumstances.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
This public policy presents a unique opportunity for Sudanese nationals. Those who lost passports during the conflict are not required to possess travel documents for a permanent resident visa. IRCC facilitates this accommodation, issuing a Single Journey Travel Document under extreme conditions.
Applicants need to meet all remaining standard eligibility and admissibility criteria. The policy is designed as a humanitarian response, and adherence to rules ensures smooth processing for those in distress. Any applicant not meeting policy standards may face application rejection due to ineligibility or inadmissibility.
Sources: Government of Canada (canada.ca), IRCC Help Centre. Last verified: October 12, 2026. This article is general information, not legal advice — consult IRCC or a qualified legal aid service for guidance on your specific situation.
Impact on Applicants
These temporary measures aim to alleviate the pressures faced by Sudanese nationals due to the civil conflict. By waiving fees and facilitating access to permits, the policy offers significant financial and legal support. In a practical sense, this can mean the difference between staying in Canada legally or facing potential deportation. Sudanese nationals in Canada can continue their lives with some certainty, knowing that they have a pathway to extend their stay without the burden of additional financial costs.
Consider a Sudanese student in Canada who faced losing their temporary resident status. With the fee waivers, they can extend their study permit without the usual financial hurdle. Likewise, a worker nearing the end of their visa can apply for an open work permit to maintain employment, offering essential stability amid turmoil back home. These opportunities not only benefit the individuals directly involved but also contribute positively to the communities they are a part of in Canada by allowing them to continue their studies or employment.
Understanding the Processing System
The Global Case Management System (GCMS) plays a crucial role in processing these applications. It ensures that applications are tracked efficiently and decisions are made with accuracy. For open work permits, the system allows IRCC officers to apply exemption codes and other specific instructions that align with the temporary public policies.
When applying, it’s crucial for Sudanese nationals to follow detailed IRCC guidelines. For instance, submitting complete and accurate documentation is vital. Missing documents can delay the process or result in application refusals. IRCC officers review each application to ensure compliance with set guidelines. They can request additional information if necessary, ensuring the applicant’s presence in Canada and verifying eligibility under the temporary measures. The Entry/Exit Program is often used to confirm applicants have not left Canada, a key eligibility requirement.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Despite the benefits, navigating the application process can be challenging. One common issue applicants might face is ensuring the timely submission of applications before their current status expires. Late applications can result in the loss of maintained status, leading to complications in remaining legally in Canada.
Another challenge is the requirement to uphold all other admissibility standards since not all conditions are waived. For example, applicants must still demonstrate they won’t become a financial burden to the state or pose a security risk. Preparing thorough documentation that addresses these aspects can increase an application’s success rate. Effective communication and planning, ensuring all requisite files such as proof of Sudanese nationality and other personal documents are updated and accurate, is fundamental for overcoming these hurdles.
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