Permanent Residence for Ukrainians with Family in Canada: How to Apply

Whether you are reuniting with your spouse, children, or other close relatives, this article will cover everything you need to know about the PR process, including:

1. Important Deadlines for Permanent Residence for Ukrainians with Family in Canada 
2. Who Can Apply for Permanent Residence for Ukrainians with Family in Canada? 
3. Essential documents required for your application
4. How to apply for Permanent Residence (PR): Step-by-Step Guide
5. What to expect during the application process
6. Accessing support and resources for new permanent residents

By following this guide, you’ll be equipped to navigate the permanent residence application process and secure your future in Canada.  For personalized assistance, don't hesitate to consult Aïa, our free immigration guide, available in Ukrainian and Russian.

Explore More Articles in This Series

To help you navigate the immigration process and settle smoothly 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: Special Measures Explained: An overview of all the special measures Canada has put in place for Ukrainian immigrants.
2. Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) Guide: A guide to applying for the CUAET program, covering eligibility and application steps.
3. Permanent Residence for Ukrainians: How to Apply (this article)
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: Information on obtaining and extending work permits under special measures.
6. Study Permits for Ukrainians: How to Apply: Guidelines for applying for or extending study permits in Canada.

1. Important Deadlines for Permanent Residence for Ukrainians with Family in Canada

Key deadlines to remember for Ukrainian nationals applying for permanent residence through the family reunification pathway:

• October 23, 2023: Start date for Ukrainian nationals in Canada with temporary resident status to apply for permanent residence through the family reunification pathway.
• October 22, 2024: Final deadline to submit applications for this specific permanent residence pathway if you have family members in Canada (previously stated as March 31, 2024).
• March 31, 2025: Final deadline to access federally-funded settlement services and work/study permit extensions without fees for Ukrainian nationals and their families.

2. Who Can Apply for Permanent Residence for Ukrainians with Family in Canada? 

To be eligible for the permanent residence pathway for Ukrainians with family in Canada, applicants must meet specific criteria, submit their application before October 22, 2024, and consider extending their temporary permits before March 31, 2024, to maintain eligibility. Here's what you need to know:

Who can apply:

• Ukrainian nationals: Must hold Ukrainian citizenship and currently have temporary resident status in Canada.
• Family Members: This pathway is available to those with immediate family members in Canada, including: Spouses or common-law partners, dependent children, parents and grandparents and siblings and grandchildren.

Important points:

• Proof of Relationship: Applicants must provide valid documentation proving their family relationship with the Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Temporary Resident Status: Applicants must maintain valid temporary resident status in Canada at the time of application.

Tips and advice

Ensure that all documentation proving citizenship and family relationships is up-to-date and clearly legible. Complete and accurate documentation is crucial to avoid delays in the application process.

3. Essential Documents Required for Your Permanent Residence Application

To apply for permanent residence, applicants must gather and submit several essential documents. These documents must be prepared accurately and submitted before the October 22, 2024, deadline.

Required documents:

• Valid Passport: A current Ukrainian passport or other travel documents.
• Proof of Relationship: Documentation proving your family relationship with the Canadian citizen or permanent resident, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.
• Temporary Resident Permit: Proof of your current temporary resident status in Canada.
  Biometric Data: Fingerprints and a photo.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Any other relevant documents as required by IRCC, including medical exams, police certificates, and proof of financial support.

Tips and advice

Ensure that all documents are up-to-date, accurate, and clearly legible. Make multiple copies of all documents, and keep the originals safe. If possible, scan your documents to have digital copies ready for online submission. Properly organized and complete documentation will help avoid delays and ensure a smoother application process. For detailed guidelines, ask Aïa, our trusted immigration assistant.

4. How to apply for Permanent Residence (PR): Step-by-Step Guide

To apply for permanent residence before the program's closure on October 22, 2024, follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process.

Application steps:

• Fill Out the Form: Complete the permanent residence application form accurately (IMM 0008), ensuring all information matches your documents.
• Upload Documents: Upload all required documents, including your passport, proof of relationship, temporary resident permit, and biometric data.
• Schedule Biometrics: Make an appointment to provide biometric data at a Visa Application Center (VAC). 
• Submit Your Application: Review your application thoroughly and submit it through the IRCC portal.

Tips and advice

Double-check all information before submitting to avoid errors that could delay your application. Schedule your biometric appointment promptly, as it is crucial, and keep copies of all submitted documents. Applying for Permanent Residence can be complex, and mistakes may lead to refusals or delays. To reduce risks and ensure everything is correct, consider using our Permanent Residence services for professional guidance and support throughout the process.

5. What to Expect During the PR Application Process

After submitting your Permanent Residence (PR) application, expect several steps as IRCC processes your submission. Ensure all actions are completed before the final deadline to avoid delays.

Post-submission steps:

• Track Your Application: Monitor your application status through the IRCC portal. This will keep you informed about the progress and any additional steps required.
  
• Decision Notification: Watch for notifications via email or your IRCC account regarding the outcome of your application. You may be required to provide additional information or documents.
  
• Medical Examination: If not already completed, you may be asked to undergo a medical examination as part of the application process.
  
• Background Check: A background check will be conducted to ensure all eligibility criteria are met, including security and criminal checks.
  
• Prepare for Next Steps: After approval, ensure all work and study permits are updated and extended by March 31, 2024, if applicable, while preparing for any final steps to confirm your PR status.Tips and advice

Regularly check your IRCC account and email for updates or requests for additional information. Keeping all your documents organized and accessible will help you respond promptly to any requests from IRCC. If your application is approved, make sure you understand the next steps in confirming your permanent resident status. 

6. Accessing Support and Resources for New Permanent Residents

Utilize available resources and services to support your transition to life in Canada as a permanent resident.

Key resources:

• IRCC Website: Offers various resources to help newcomers settle in Canada, including language classes, job search assistance, and housing support.
• Settlement Agencies: These agencies offer a wide range of services, including help with housing, employment, and cultural orientation programs to ease your transition into Canadian society.
• Healthcare Enrollment: Register for provincial healthcare coverage as soon as possible and secure any necessary temporary health insurance for the interim.
• Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC): This government-funded program offers free English and French language classes to help newcomers improve their language skills. 
• Job Bank Canada: The official government job site (Job Bank) helps you find employment opportunities and provides resources on writing resumes, preparing for interviews, and more.
• Canada Child Benefit (CCB): Provides financial support to eligible families with children. You can find more details and apply through the Canada Revenue Agency.

Moving to Canada from Ukraine can be challenging, but with the right information and resources, you can make a smooth transition. For any immigration questions, don't hesitate to ask Aïa, who uses the latest updates in Canadian immigration legislation, to assist you for free. Welcome to your new home!