YLG Yazdani Law Group is giving away $15 million through free legal services to support its Iranian clients who are impacted by rapid changes in Canadian Immigration rules and policy.
Canada’s immigration laws, regulations, and policies have undergone frequent and significant changes over the past three years, creating uncertainty for applicants and legal professionals alike. Unfortunately, these policy shifts have not only affected new applicants but have also impacted individuals with already submitted applications, causing disruptions in their immigration process and future plans.
One of the most challenging aspects of these changes is the retroactive application of new immigration rules, meaning that applicants who had previously met all eligibility criteria may find themselves subject to new requirements or additional scrutiny. Modifications to processing times, new restrictions on certain visa categories, and evolving pathways for economic immigration have made it increasingly difficult for applicants to predict outcomes or plan for their move to Canada.
Adding to this instability, the leadership of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has changed five times within the last four years, leading to shifts in priorities and frequent policy revisions. These leadership changes have resulted in varying approaches to immigration programs, from stricter regulations on work and study permits to adjustments in permanent residency admission targets. The Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027, for instance, has signaled a reduction in certain permanent resident categories while prioritizing applicants already residing in Canada.
YLG Yazdani Law Group has undertaken an unprecedented pro bono initiative, committing to providing over $15 million in free legal services to support its Iranian clients who have been significantly impacted by the rapid changes in Canada’s immigration policies. This extraordinary effort aims to assist individuals whose immigration cases and future plans have been disrupted due to evolving regulations, ensuring they receive professional legal representation without financial burden.
This initiative is led by Afshin Yazdani, the founder of YLG Yazdani Law Group. With over 20 years of experience in immigration and business law, Mr. Yazdani has built a reputation as a dedicated legal expert and advocate for immigrants. He began his career as a lawyer and law professor in Iran in 2004 before expanding his expertise internationally, including serving as a legal advisor in Dubai. He later pursued advanced legal studies in Canada, earning multiple law degrees and becoming a member of the Ontario Bar in 2019. His extensive knowledge and commitment to immigration law have made him a trusted figure in the field, frequently consulted by media outlets, government agencies, and NGOs on immigration-related matters
Recognizing the challenges many Iranian applicants face amid shifting immigration laws, YLG has decided to waive legal fees for more than 100 cases under its business immigration programs, including the Start-Up Visa and other pathways to residency in Canada. This initiative reflects YLG’s deep commitment to advocacy, social responsibility, and standing by its clients during difficult times.
The firm’s charitable project is being sponsored by the YLG Foundation, which has stepped in to cover operational costs, including staff salaries and other legal expenses. By doing so, the foundation is enabling Yazdani Law Group to focus entirely on delivering expert legal assistance to those who need it most.
This initiative is one of the largest philanthropic endeavors undertaken by a private immigration law firm, demonstrating an unparalleled dedication to community support. It is expected to have a lasting impact on many families and entrepreneurs seeking stability and new opportunities in Canada.
YLG Yazdani Law Group is recognized for its strong track record in Canadian immigration and visa applications, boasting a success rate of over 85%. The firm specializes in key immigration pathways, including the Canada Start-Up Visa, Intra-Company Transferee, and C11 Work Permit, helping entrepreneurs, business professionals, and investors navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration law.
Their expertise in the Start-Up Visa program is particularly notable, as this pathway is designed for innovative entrepreneurs seeking to establish businesses in Canada. The firm also assists companies in transferring employees through the Intra-Company Transferee program, which allows multinational corporations to relocate key personnel to their Canadian branches. Additionally, the C11 Work Permit is a valuable option for self-employed individuals and entrepreneurs looking to operate businesses in Canada.
Afshin Yazdani, Saturday, May 16, 2025
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