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e-7288 (Citizenship and immigration)

E-petition
Initiated by Ali Demircan from Scarborough, Ontario

Original language of petition: English

Petition to the House of Commons

Whereas:
  • Individuals currently residing in Canada under the TS2023 temporary public policy were admitted for humanitarian reasons following the devastating earthquakes that struck Türkiye and Syria in 2023;
  • Despite reconstruction efforts, many earthquake affected regions continue to face housing shortages, damaged infrastructure and economic disruption;
  • Many TS2023 beneficiaries lost their homes, employment and social support networks as a result of the earthquakes;
  • Many TS2023 beneficiaries have been living in Canada for several years and established employment, housing, and community ties;
  • Many beneficiaries have children studying in Canadian schools whose education would be disrupted if they were required to leave Canada;
  • Many TS2023 beneficiaries are working in Canada and contributing to the Canadian economy including in addressing labour shortages;
  • The Labour Market Impact Assessment requirement can create barriers for employers seeking to retain TS2023 workers; and
  • Many TS2023 work permits are approaching expiry creating uncertainty for workers, families and employers.
We, the undersigned, residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to:
1. Introduce a temporary public policy allowing TS2023 work permit holders to access LMIA exempt work permits;
2. Implement a minimum 24-month extension of work permits for TS2023 beneficiaries so they may maintain legal status and continue contributing to the Canadian labour market; and
3. Consider the development of a pathway toward permanent residence for TS2023 beneficiaries who reside in Canada and actively contributing through employment, education or community participation.

Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Signed by Peter Fragiskatos, M.P.

Following the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria on February 6, 2023, Canada acted quickly to support those affected, including prioritizing the processing of applications and facilitating extensions for Turkish and Syrian nationals already in Canada.

The special measures to support those affected by the earthquakes in Syria and Türkiye ended on January 3, 2024. These measures were intended to be temporary in nature and made it possible for Turkish and Syrian nationals who were in Canada with valid temporary resident status to stay and support themselves while the region recovered from the devastating earthquakes. These measures were originally set to expire on September 25, 2023, but were later extended until January 3, 2024.

Eligible Turkish and Syrian nationals with valid temporary resident status in Canada (including visitors, students, and workers) can apply, through regular programs, to renew their status. Those wishing to stay in Canada permanently can also apply to the existing immigration programs and pathways available.

When responding to international crises, Canada tailors its approach to meet the unique needs of those affected. We assess whether existing immigration and refugee programs are sufficient or whether new measures are required, while ensuring decisions remain fair, transparent, equitable, and sustainable. It is important to note that Canada is restoring balance to its well-managed immigration system by strengthening integrity and sustainability, while continuing to maintain our humanitarian commitments. All policy decisions must align with the Immigration Levels Plan and available program capacity to ensure Canada can continue responding to global crises in a responsible and sustainable way, while supporting communities and maintaining the integrity of the immigration system. 

 

Open for signature
March 24, 2026, at 10:25 a.m. (EDT)
Closed for signature
April 23, 2026, at 10:25 a.m. (EDT)
Presented to the House of Commons
Sima Acan (Oakville West)
April 29, 2026 (Petition No. 451-00916)
Government response tabled
June 12, 2026
Photo - Sima Acan
Oakville West
Liberal Caucus
Ontario