On April 23, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a new temporary public policy to support foreign nationals from Gaza who were issued temporary resident visas (TRVs) under Canada’s earlier special measures—but who have not yet been able to travel to Canada.
This measure reaffirms Canada’s ongoing humanitarian commitment to individuals affected by the ongoing crisis in Gaza and aims to remove key barriers for those who have already been approved to enter Canada.
Background
In response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict in Gaza, Canada introduced the Updated Temporary Public Policy to Facilitate Temporary Resident Visas for Certain Extended Family Affected by the Crisis in Gaza, allowing certain individuals to seek safety in Canada alongside their relatives.
While many TRVs have been issued, some individuals remain outside Canada—unable to enter due to ongoing instability and logistical challenges. Despite a recent ceasefire, the situation in Gaza remains highly volatile, and travel out of the region is still difficult.
What Does the New Public Policy Do?
This new public policy, effective April 23, 2025, is designed to facilitate entry for individuals with approved TRVs under the earlier Gaza special measures who:
- Remain outside of Canadaas of April 22, 2025, and
- Are seeking to enter as visitors.
To help them arrive in Canada more easily, the government will waive certain requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
Exemptions Granted Under This Policy
Foreign nationals who qualify under this policy may be exempt from:
- Paragraph 20(1)(b)of the IRPA – normally requiring individuals to prove they will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay;
- Subsection 22(2)– similar obligation to leave at the end of the stay;
- Section 39– which bars entry for financial inadmissibility.
This means that applicants do not need to prove they will leave Canada, nor do they have to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency to the same extent as under normal requirements.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify, the applicant must:
- Hold a TRV issued under the Gaza facilitation policy(either Part 1 or Part 2), and
- e seeking to enter Canada as a visitor.
All other immigration requirements, including background checks, security screening, and admissibility assessments, will still apply.
Validity
This temporary public policy is in effect from April 23, 2025 to April 23, 2026, and may be revoked by IRCC at any time without advance notice.
Why This Matters
By easing the pathway for TRV holders from Gaza who have already been approved to come to Canada, this policy ensures that Canada keeps its promise to those affected by the conflict and waiting to reunite with family or find temporary refuge. It also reflects Canada’s continued commitment to humanitarian action, especially for populations facing instability, displacement, and uncertainty.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please refer to the IRCC official website for full details.