Date: March 25, 2025
To:
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Subject: Request for a Three-Year Extension of Existing Open Work Permits for Turkish Citizens

Dear Minister and Esteemed Members of Parliament:

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that the Government of Canada extend the existing open work permits granted initially under the 2023 special measures to Turkish citizens affected by the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye. While we gratefully acknowledge Canada’s generosity thus far and appreciate the prospect of pathways to permanent residency, our immediate priority is to ensure that holders of these work permits are able to extend them—rather than applying for new permits—for a further three years.

1. Current Context and Critical Need
Permits Approaching Expiry: Approximately 9300 TS2023 Open Work Permits were issued by IRCC under special measures for Turkish and Syrian nationals in Canada. Many of these specialized open work permits will expire in 2026. Their holders have successfully integrated into Canadian society by contributing to the workforce, paying taxes, and establishing stable lives for themselves and their families.
Continuing Hardship in Türkiye: Türkiye is still recovering from the long-term impacts of the earthquakes, compounded by ongoing economic instability and political uncertainty. Forcing families to return under such conditions would be not only disruptive but potentially harmful to their well-being.
2. Contribution and Integration in Canada
Economic Contributions: Permit holders are employed across sectors vital to Canada’s economy—from healthcare and skilled trades to IT and community services. Many have also established their own business and become employers. Their contributions help address labor shortages and foster economic growth.
Social and Community Ties: These families have rooted themselves in Canadian communities over the past few years. Their children are enrolled in local schools, building friendships and thriving in a stable environment.
Alignment with Canadian Values: Canada has a long-standing tradition of humanitarian leadership. By extending these work permits, the government continues to embody its values of compassion, diversity, and inclusion.
3. Willingness to Pay Fees and Meet Conditions
We recognize the cost and administrative work involved in extending these permits. We are prepared to:

Pay the Required Application Fees: Although fees were initially waived under the special measures, we understand current budgetary considerations and are willing to cover the standard costs associated with extending work permits.
Comply with Reasonable Conditions: Similar to the conditions applied to extensions of other special measures (e.g., for Iranian and Ukranian nationals), we accept any additional requirements IRCC deems necessary to facilitate a fair and efficient process.
4. Potential Pathway to Permanent Residency
While our most urgent request is to secure a three-year extension of the existing open work permits, we also encourage the government to explore or clarify any pathways to permanent residency for those who have become deeply integrated into Canadian society. However, the immediate priority remains ensuring the families’ ability to stay and continue their contribution without interruption.

5. Request and Conclusion
In light of these factors, we earnestly request that the Government of Canada:

Grant a Three-Year Extension to the existing open work permits set to expire in 2026 for Turkish nationals affected by the 2023 earthquakes.
Maintain a Streamlined Process that allows eligible individuals to submit extension applications with clear guidelines and timelines.
Consider Pathways to Permanent Residency for those who meet integration and eligibility criteria, ensuring long-term stability for families.
These measures would prevent needless disruption, preserve the continuity of the permit holders’ employment, and respect the spirit of humanitarian support that Canada so proudly upholds. 

We thank you for your time and consideration. We are ready to provide any further information or cooperate with IRCC and members of parliament to make this extension process as smooth and efficient as possible.

Respectfully,

TS2023 Open Work Permit Holders