Options In Canada For Candidates Affected By Trump’s Immigration Ban From 19 Countries
The Trump administration’s decision to pause all immigration applications from 19 non-European countries has created major uncertainty for thousands of people. Green card processing, naturalisation interviews and adjustment of status applications have all been halted while applicants undergo new national-security reviews.
On This Page You Will Find
- List of all 19 affected countries
- Canada’s response to U.S. immigration restrictions
- Express Entry options
- Provincial nominee opportunities
- Work and study pathways
- Refugee and humanitarian routes
- Family sponsorship
- Frequently asked questions
For affected individuals, Canada offers a stable and predictable alternative. Canada continues to welcome skilled workers, students, families, entrepreneurs and refugees through transparent programs with clear requirements.
The 19 Countries Affected by the U.S. Immigration Pause
The pause applies to nationals of the following 19 countries:
- Afghanistan
- Myanmar
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
Applicants from these countries have seen their U.S. files frozen while new security reviews are undertaken.
Canada as a Practical Alternative
Canada’s immigration system operates independently of U.S. policy and does not impose country-specific bans. Skilled workers, graduates, entrepreneurs, families and humanitarian applicants from all 19 countries remain eligible if they meet Canadian program requirements.
Canada continues to offer clear, rules-based pathways that support long-term settlement and economic contribution.
Economic Immigration Pathways
Express Entry
Express Entry remains Canada’s fastest system for skilled workers. Applicants receive a Comprehensive Ranking System score based on age, education, work experience, language skills and adaptability.
Canada also runs category-based draws targeting occupations in healthcare, STEM, trades, transport, agriculture and French-speaking candidates. Applicants from the 19 countries with experience in these fields may be invited more quickly.
Provincial Nominee Programs
Each province operates streams targeting local labour needs. Many PNPs benefit applicants who do not score high enough for a direct Express Entry invitation.
A provincial nomination adds 600 points to an Express Entry profile and almost guarantees permanent residence.
Work Permits
Some applicants may first choose to work in Canada while building eligibility for permanent residence.
Options include:
- Employer-specific work permits supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment
- International Mobility Program permits for intra-company transferees and certain professionals
- Entrepreneur or self-employed temporary pathways
Work experience in Canada can later boost eligibility under Express Entry or a provincial program.
Study Pathways Leading to Permanent Residence
Studying in Canada is one of the most reliable long-term immigration strategies. Students may work part-time during studies and full-time during scheduled breaks. Graduates may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit that offers up to three years of open work authorisation.
Canadian education and Canadian work experience significantly improve Express Entry and PNP eligibility.
Refugee and Humanitarian Pathways
Some individuals from the 19 countries may qualify for:
- Refugee protection claims inside Canada
- Private sponsorship
- Government-assisted resettlement (based on UNHCR referrals)
Eligibility depends on proving risk, persecution or an inability to safely return home.
Family Sponsorship
Canadian citizens and permanent residents may sponsor spouses, partners and dependent children without any country-based restrictions. Processing rules apply equally to all nationalities.
FAQ
Does Canada ban applicants from the 19 countries affected by the U.S. pause?
No. Canada does not mirror U.S. immigration restrictions. Applicants from all 19 countries can apply normally if they meet Canadian program requirements. Canada evaluates admissibility and eligibility independently.
What is the fastest Canadian program for someone affected by the U.S. ban?
Express Entry is usually the quickest pathway for skilled workers. Candidates with strong language scores, Canadian experience or targeted occupations often receive invitations sooner. Provincial nominations also significantly speed up permanent residence.
Can someone whose U.S. case was paused still apply to Canada?
Yes. A U.S. pause or refusal does not affect Canadian eligibility. Canada does not consider U.S. policy decisions when assessing applications. Admissibility, security checks and program criteria are assessed independently.
Are students from the 19 countries welcome in Canada?
Yes. Canada continues to issue study permits to all nationalities. Graduates may later qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit and then permanent residence. Many affected applicants choose this route to build eligibility while studying.
Can people from the 19 countries apply for refugee protection in Canada?
Possibly. Refugee protection depends on demonstrating persecution or an inability to return home safely. Each case is assessed individually based on risk, not on U.S. immigration decisions.
