Open Work Permit Measures for Ukrainians in Canada: How to Apply

Whether you’re seeking to join the Canadian workforce or extend your stay, this article covers everything you need to know, including:

1. Important Deadlines for Open Work Permit Applications
2. Who Can Apply for the Open Work Permit?
3. Essential Documents Required for Your Open Work Permit
4. How to Apply for the Open Work Permit: Step-by-Step Guide
5. What to Expect After Submitting Your Open Work Permit Application
6. Accessing Support and Resources for Open Work Permit Holders

By following this guide, you will be prepared to navigate the open work permit application process and access employment opportunities in Canada. For personalized assistance, consult Aïa, our free trusted immigration assistant, which is available in Ukrainian and Russian.

Explore More Articles in This Series

To assist you in your journey in Canada, explore the other articles in our "How to Immigrate to Canada from Ukraine: Special Measures Explained" series:

1. How to Immigrate to Canada from Ukraine: An overview of all the special measures Canada has put in place for Ukrainian immigrants.
2. Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET): How to Apply: A guide to applying for the CUAET program, covering eligibility and application steps.
3. Permanent Residence for Ukrainians: How to Apply: Instructions for Ukrainians with family in Canada to apply for permanent residence.
4. Permanent Residence for Ukrainians Without Family in Canada: How to Apply: Guide on PR pathways for Ukrainians without family in Canada. 
5. Work Permits for Ukrainians: How to Apply: (this article)
6. Study Permits for Ukrainians: How to Apply: Guide on study permits for Ukrainians in Canada.

1. Important Deadlines for Open Work Permit Applications

For Ukrainian nationals applying for open work permits, remember these key deadlines:

• March 31, 2024: Last day to submit applications for open work permit extensions under the new Ukraine measures.
• December 31, 2024: Final deadline to submit applications for new open work permits or extensions without fees under the Ukraine special measures.
• March 31, 2025: Deadline to access free federally-funded settlement services for Ukrainian nationals and their families in Canada.

2. Who Can Apply for the Open Work Permit?

To be eligible for the open work permit under the Ukraine immigration measures, you must meet both of the following requirements:

Who can apply:

• Ukrainian Nationals: Must hold a valid CUAET authorization or temporary resident status in Canada.
• Family Members: Immediate family members, including spouses and dependents, with temporary resident status in Canada.

Important points:

• Temporary Resident Status: Must be valid at the time of application.
• Application Deadline: Submit before March 31, 2024, for extensions under new measures.

Tips and advice

To qualify for the open work permit for Ukrainians, ensure you have valid CUAET or temporary resident status in Canada. Apply before March 31, 2024. Keep your documents accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays. For step-by-step help, consult Aïa, our free trusted immigration assistant, for detailed guidelines.

3. Essential Documents Required for Your Open Work Permit

To apply for an open work permit under the Ukraine measures, you must provide:

Required documents:

• Valid Passport: A current Ukrainian passport or other travel documents.
  Proof of Temporary Resident Status: Documentation proving current status in Canada under the CUAET.
• Biometric Data: Fingerprints and a photo.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Relevant documents as required by IRCC, such as a letter stating you are exempt from fees due to Ukraine's special measures.

Forms to Fill Out:

• Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay, or Remain in Canada as a Worker (IMM 5710): For applying for a new open work permit or extending an existing one.
• Family Information Form (IMM 5707): To provide details about your family members.
• Document Checklist (IMM 5556): To ensure all required documents are included.
• Use of a Representative (IMM 5476): If using a representative to assist with the application.

Tips and advice

Ensure all documents are up-to-date, accurate, and clearly legible. Make copies and keep originals safe. Scan documents for online submission. Properly organized documentation helps avoid delays and ensures a smoother process. 

4. How to Apply for the Open Work Permit: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to apply for a new open work permit or extend your current one:

Application steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your CUAET application was approved on or after February 4, 2024, and you have valid temporary resident status.
2. Gather Required Documents and Forms: Prepare all necessary documents, including the Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay, or Remain in Canada as a Worker (IMM 5710), Family Information Form (IMM 5707), and other required forms.
3. Create or Log into Your Online Account: Register or log in to the IRCC portal.
4. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the forms accurately, following special instructions for public policy applications.
5. Upload Documents: Submit your passport, proof of status, biometric data, and any required additional documentation.
6. Schedule Biometrics: If biometrics are required, arrange an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC). Applicants under Ukraine's special measures are exempt from paying the biometrics fee.
   Submit Your Application: Double-check the information and submit through the IRCC portal.

Tips and advice

Double-check all information to avoid errors. Schedule your biometrics appointment promptly, and keep copies of the application and all submitted documents for your records. Remember, there is always a risk of mistakes when preparing your application on your own. It's safer to use our service to ensure your work permit application is complete and accurate, reducing the chance of delays or rejections.

5. What to Expect After Submitting Your Open Work Permit Application

After submitting your application, here are the key steps:

Post-submission steps:

1. Track Application: Monitor status via the IRCC portal.
2. Decision Notification: Watch for updates via email or IRCC account.
3. Prepare for Employment: Once approved, prepare for employment opportunities in Canada.

Tips and advice

Check your IRCC account and email regularly for updates or additional information requests. Keep documents organized and accessible so that they can be responded to promptly. Understand the next steps after approval.

6. Accessing Support and Resources for Open Work Permit Holders

Find support and resources to ease your transition to life in Canada:

Key resources:

• IRCC Website: IRCC offers extensive resources for newcomers, including detailed settlement guides, language learning tools, and information on accessing various government benefits.
• Settlement Agencies: Local agencies provide crucial support for immigrants, such as assistance with finding housing, employment services, and cultural integration programs, helping newcomers adapt to life in Canada.
• Healthcare Enrollment: Enroll in provincial healthcare as soon as possible. Some provinces may have a waiting period, so consider temporary health insurance in the meantime.
• Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC): This government-funded program provides free English and French classes to help newcomers enhance their language skills, vital for integration and employment opportunities.
• Job Bank Canada: The official government portal offers a wide range of employment resources, including job listings, resume-building tools, and interview preparation advice.
• Canada Child Benefit (CCB):  Eligible families with children may receive monthly financial support through the Canada Child Benefit, which helps ease the financial burden of raising children in a new country.

Obtaining an open work permit in Canada is a significant step. Access essential services, settle into your new community, and get help from Aïa, our free immigration assistant, for the latest guidance on Canadian immigration policies. Welcome to Canada!