Discover how Ukrainians can achieve permanent residence in Canada through special measures. This guide covers key pathways, eligibility, and deadlines. From understanding these measures to practical advice for settling in Canada, our goal is to make your transition smoother and more informed.
In response to the humanitarian crisis triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Canada swiftly implemented special immigration measures to provide immediate safety and stability for Ukrainians fleeing the conflict. These measures leverage Canada’s extensive Ukrainian diaspora, continuing a legacy of contributions since 1891, and highlight Canada's recognition of Ukraine's independence in 1991.
Key dates for special immigration measures for Ukrainians
- March 17, 2022: Launch of Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET).
- July 15, 2023: Deadline for overseas CUAET visa applications.
- October 23, 2023: Start of the new pathway to permanent residence for Ukrainian families.
- March 31, 2024: Deadline for CUAET holders to travel to Canada and remain eligible for CUAET-specific benefits, such as temporary emergency accommodations and transitional financial assistance.
- June 30, 2024: Deadline to apply for transitional financial assistance for those who arrive by March 31, 2024.
- July 31, 2024: Extension for those who experienced processing delays and received a positive decision on or after February 4, 2024, to arrive in Canada and apply for an inland study permit and an open work permit free of charge.
- October 22, 2024: Final date to apply for the new permanent residence pathway for Ukrainian nationals with family members in Canada.
- December 31, 2024: Final deadline for Ukrainians to submit applications for new open work permits, study permits, or extensions under special measures without fees.
- March 31, 2025: Deadline for accessing federally-funded settlement services for Ukrainian nationals and their families.
How many Ukrainian immigrants has Canada accepted?
Canada has generously welcomed Ukrainians seeking refuge from the ongoing conflict in their homeland. The response has been significant: over 1.1 million applications have been submitted for the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, with nearly a million applications approved.
However, the crucial figure is how many have actually arrived in Canada. As of August 2024, approximately 300,000 Ukrainians have arrived under this program, finding safety and starting new lives in Canada. This initiative has profoundly impacted thousands of lives, offering hope and a new beginning in the Great White North.
Fast-Track Immigration for Ukrainians: Temporary and Permanent Pathways
Canada has created special immigration measures to help Ukrainians affected by the conflict find safety and stability. These measures provide expedited pathways to temporary and permanent residency. Although new CUAET applications are no longer accepted, current CUAET holders can still extend their work and study permits without fees. Several other programs are also available that offer opportunities for Ukrainians to obtain permanent residence, including new pathways for those with family members in Canada.
Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET)
The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, which offered expedited temporary residency for Ukrainians and their families, stopped accepting new applications on July 15, 2023. If you applied before this date, you can stay in Canada for up to three years and have the option to extend your open work and study permits without fees until March 31, 2024.
To extend your permits, make sure to apply before the deadline to maintain your status and continue your integration into Canadian society. Eligible CUAET holders can also access settlement services and support until March 31, 2025, to help with their transition to life in Canada.
For detailed instructions on extending your stay and understanding the necessary steps, refer to our comprehensive guide in the "How to Apply to the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET)" article.
Permanent Residence for Ukrainians with Family in Canada
Ukrainian nationals in Canada with temporary resident status and close family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents can apply for permanent residence. This pathway, open since October 23, 2023, focuses on family reunification, allowing Ukrainians to build a new life alongside their loved ones in Canada. The deadline to submit applications for this program is October 22, 2024.
Eligible family members include spouses, children, parents, grandparents, siblings, and grandchildren of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Applicants must provide proof of their relationship and ensure their temporary resident status is maintained throughout the application process.
For a step-by-step guide on how to apply, please refer to our comprehensive article: "How to Apply for Permanent Residence for Ukrainians with Family in Canada". This resource provides all the necessary details to navigate the application process smoothly.
Permanent Residence for Ukrainians without Family in Canada
Ukrainian nationals in Canada without close family members can still pursue several pathways to permanent residence. These options include economic immigration programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and humanitarian and compassionate grounds applications.
Each pathway has specific criteria, including requirements for skills, work experience, education, and financial stability, designed to help individuals build a stable life in Canada without the presence of immediate family members.
For more detailed information on these pathways and guidance on how to apply, explore our comprehensive guide on "How to Apply for Permanent Residence for Ukrainians without Family in Canada".
Open Work Permit Options for Ukrainian Nationals in Canada
Canada offers special open work permit measures for Ukrainian nationals whose CUAET applications were approved on or after February 4, 2024. Eligible applicants can apply for new open work permits or extend their current ones without fees until December 31, 2024.
To apply, you must meet specific criteria, such as holding valid temporary resident status in Canada. The application process involves gathering necessary documents, creating an online account on the IRCC portal, completing forms accurately, and submitting all required information.
For a detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply or extend your open work permit, read our comprehensive article on “How to Apply for Open Work Permit Measures for Ukrainians in Canada".
Study Permit Opportunities for Ukrainian Nationals in Canada
Ukrainian nationals in Canada with temporary resident status under the CUAET measures, approved on or after February 4, 2024, have the opportunity to apply for or extend study permits without paying any fees. Applications for new or extended study permits must be submitted by December 31, 2024.
These special measures provide a pathway for Ukrainians to continue or begin their education in Canada, contributing to their integration and future career prospects. The study permit allows for up to three years of study, aligned with the program duration, plus an additional 90 days.
To learn more about applying for a study permit, including eligibility criteria and the application process, explore our detailed guide on "How to Apply for Study Permit Measures for Ukrainians in Canada".
By streamlining the process and extending support to families, Canada continues to provide a welcoming environment for Ukrainians affected by the conflict, ensuring that they can reunite and thrive in a new country.
Ensure all documentation is accurate and up-to-date to avoid processing delays. For more information or personalized assistance, consult Aïa, our free immigration assistant, available in Ukrainian and Russian.
