ABUJA, Nigeria — Canada has implemented temporary special immigration measures designed to support foreign workers, students, and visitors whose immigration status has been compromised by natural disasters within the country.

These measures, effective from April 1, 2026, until November 30, 2028, grant eligible temporary residents up to six months to reapply for their status after it has lapsed. This is a significant extension from the usual 90-day window.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced on its X platform that the initiative is available to individuals directly affected by a natural disaster in Canada who held valid temporary resident status as a worker, student, or visitor at the time of the event.

The types of natural disasters covered include wildfires, storms, floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes.

Foreign workers seeking to restore their status must submit a signed declaration detailing how and when the disaster impacted them. They are also required to include the code “NaturalDisaster2026” and provide supporting documentation, such as proof of residence in the affected area.

These workers may also need to supply their employer’s details and evidence that their workplace was rendered inoperable due to the disaster.

Similarly, students applying to reinstate their status must provide a declaration explaining the disaster’s effect and use the “NaturalDisaster2026” code. They might also need to present evidence of their presence in the affected region and information about their educational institution.

If a school is closed because of a natural disaster, students can offer proof like a letter from the institution, an email, or a public notice confirming the closure.

The IRCC stated that students whose designated learning institutions are closed due to a disaster could be considered on authorised leave. This allows them to pause their studies without penalty and potentially continue off-campus work if their permits permit.

Applicants are still required to pay the standard application fees.

For those needing urgent processing, the IRCC offers a web form where applicants can request priority processing after submitting their application. They must select “Request Priority Processing for my existing application” and include “NaturalDisaster2026” in their explanation, along with reasons for the urgency.

The same web form is available for applicants seeking assistance, needing to ask questions, or requiring updates to their contact information.

The IRCC clarified that individuals holding a Temporary Resident Permit who wish to extend their stay must apply for a new permit, rather than utilising these restoration measures.

The special measures aim to provide disaster-affected temporary residents with additional time to regularise their immigration status while they manage the aftermath of significant natural events.