Canada announces support for Iranian temporary residents
Canada is committed to protecting Iranians already in Canada, and to helping Iranian families stay together. In light of the gross and systematic human rights violations being committed by the Iranian regime during its brutal crackdown on protestors, some may wish to prolong their stay in Canada rather than return home at this time. Today,... Read More

Jasmyne Bowen waves her Canadian flag while sitting on her cousin's lap during the citizenship ceremony for 37 new Canadians at Riverside Park Monday, July 1, 2013. Bowen's uncle, aunt and two cousins were four of the 37 people from 18 different countries who became Canadians during the Canada Day celebration.
Shaping the future of immigration in Canada
Immigration is critical to Canada’s long-term success. To fully harness the potential of immigration and create the best experience for newcomers, Canada needs an immigration system that is strong, easy to navigate and adaptive to change. The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today announced the start of a broad-based engagement initiative—An... Read More
Government of Canada increases sponsorship opportunities for Sponsorship Agreement Holders
Canada continues to be a global leader in refugee resettlement and integration. Since the Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) Program was launched over 4 decades ago, Canadians and permanent residents have come together to offer protection and a safe, permanent home for tens of thousands of refugees each year. Key to the program’s success are... Read More
Canada to reduce work experience requirements for caregivers and provide pathways to permanent residence
For decades, caregivers from abroad have played an invaluable role in supporting families in Canada. In recognizing their immense sacrifices, Canada has offered pathways to permanent residence in return. On behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, members of Parliament Salma Zahid and Rechie Valdez today announced that the amount... Read More
Canada extends and expands open work permit program for Hong Kong residents
Canada continues to stand by Hong Kong residents and supports the freedom and democracy that are cherished by many. The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced today that Canada is extending and expanding the open work permit program for eligible Hong Kong residents. Canada is extending the deadline to apply and expanding... Read More
Canada Meets Its Francophone Immigration Target in 2022
Immigration is a core value in Canada and reflects the cultural mosaic that shapes our country’s identity. The contribution of Francophone immigration is even more undeniable because it enriches the linguistic, demographic and economic fabric of Francophone communities. Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the... Read More
Canada doubles immigration program for out-of-status construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area
The Government of Canada continues to deliver innovative immigration measures, such as creating pathways for out-of-status migrants, to help Canadian employers address critical labour shortages. In 2019, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), in partnership with the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), launched a permanent residence pilot program for 500 out-of-status workers in the construction industry in the... Read More
Free replacement documents for Canadians affected by Hurricane Fiona
The Government of Canada is continuing to take concrete actions to help people directly affected by Hurricane Fiona, in addition to the assistance provided through the Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund. Today, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser,... Read More
Speaking notes for the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship: Announcement related to a call for proposals under the foreign credential recognition program
Delivered Monday, December 5, 2022, in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island Good morning, everyone, and a big thank-you to my friend, Sean Casey, for the very kind introduction this morning. I’m very glad to be joining you virtually today from Ottawa, the traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin People. Look, before I get into the... Read More
Speaking notes for the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration Refugees and Citizenship: Announcement related to the International Experience Canada program
Delivered Thursday, December 1, 2022, in Banff, Alberta Hello and welcome, everyone. My name’s Sean Fraser, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. It’s a pleasure to be here with you today to make a great announcement that supports the tourism sector and tackles the labour shortage. It’s great to be back here in Banff.... Read More