FAQ — Permanent Residence for Ukrainians

Yes, you may be eligible for Canada's new permanent residence program for Ukrainians if you have immediate family members in Canada. Eligible family members include Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, grandparents, siblings, and grandchildren. You must have valid temporary resident status in Canada and apply before the deadline of October 22, 2024. Proof of family relationships, such as birth or marriage certificates, is required, and your temporary status must remain valid throughout the process.

If you need personalized assistance or want to verify your eligibility, consider using Aïa, our immigration assistant for a free assessment.

Yes, maintaining valid temporary resident status is essential while applying for permanent residence in Canada. This applies to Ukrainians under special measures, such as the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET). If your status is close to expiring, you must apply for an extension before it expires to ensure you remain eligible for the permanent residence program. Failing to maintain your status can jeopardize your application. 

Yes, Ukrainians without family members in Canada can apply for permanent residence through various immigration programs. These include Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and applications on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. Eligibility depends on factors like work experience, language proficiency, education, and financial stability. For skilled workers, the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) are common pathways. While there are no family sponsorship requirements for these programs, applicants must meet specific selection criteria for each pathway.

If you're unsure about which program is right for you or need assistance with the application process, Aïa, our immigration assistant, can provide a free eligibility assessment. We also offer dedicated services to help guide you through each step of your journey to permanent residence.

To apply for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Ukrainians must meet the following key requirements:

1. Work Experience: At least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time paid work experience in the last 10 years in a skilled occupation classified under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
2. Language Proficiency: A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7 in English or French, demonstrated through approved tests like IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF.
3. Education: A foreign educational credential equivalent to a Canadian diploma, degree, or certificate, verified by an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
4. Proof of Funds: Sufficient settlement funds to support yourself and your family unless you are currently authorized to work in Canada and have a valid job offer.
5. Selection Factors: A minimum score of 67 out of 100 points based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability.

Application Fees: Fees typically start at $1,365 CAD for the principal applicant.

If you need assistance understanding these requirements or want to assess your eligibility, you can consult Aïa, our immigration assistant for personalized guidance. We also offer dedicated services to support your application every step of the way.

Yes, Ukrainians can apply for permanent residence on humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) grounds if they do not qualify under other programs. H&C applications are typically for those facing exceptional circumstances, such as family separation, long-term residence in Canada, or hardship if forced to return to Ukraine. These applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors like the applicant’s ties to Canada, the best interests of any children involved, and the potential hardship if the application is denied. There is no specific deadline for H&C applications, but they must include detailed personal circumstances and supporting documentation.

The second stream of permanent residence for Ukrainians allows spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to apply. Applicants must have valid temporary resident status and prove their relationship with the family member in Canada (e.g., marriage certificate). The application deadline is October 22, 2024.

No, Ukrainian nationals living outside Canada cannot apply for permanent residence under these special measures. These measures require applicants to be physically present in Canada with valid temporary resident status (e.g., under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel - CUAET) at the time of application. Those outside Canada must explore other immigration pathways.

If you are outside Canada and wish to explore alternative immigration options, consider using Aïa, our immigration assistant, for a free eligibility assessment tailored to your situation.

Ukrainians with close family members in Canada can apply for permanent residence through a special Family Reunification Pathway. Eligibility requires maintaining valid temporary resident status in Canada (such as under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel - CUAET) and submitting proof of your family relationship, like birth or marriage certificates. Applications must be submitted before October 22, 2024.

After gathering the required documents—including your passport and temporary resident permit—you can submit your application through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal. Fees typically range from $550 to $1,050 CAD, depending on individual circumstances.

If you need assistance with your application or have questions about the process, consider using Aïa, our immigration assistant, for personalized guidance.

Ukrainians without family members in Canada can obtain permanent residence through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Eligibility criteria typically include factors such as work experience, language proficiency, and educational credentials. Applicants need to submit an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) and language test results, such as the IELTS or CELPIP exams. Fees for an Express Entry application start at $1,365 CAD for the principal applicant, with additional costs for dependents. It's important to apply as soon as you meet the eligibility criteria, as processing times may vary.

If you need assistance understanding the application process or determining your eligibility, consider using Aïa, our immigration assistant, for a free assessment. We also offer dedicated services to guide you through each step of your journey to permanent residence.

Ukrainians without family in Canada have several immigration pathways available:

1. Express Entry: This is a system used to manage applications for permanent residence for skilled workers. It includes programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Eligibility is based on factors such as work experience, education, language proficiency, and other criteria.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Provinces and territories in Canada have their own immigration programs tailored to their specific economic and labor market needs. Each PNP has its own set of eligibility requirements and streams targeting certain groups, such as skilled workers, semi-skilled workers, or international graduates.
3. Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds: In exceptional cases, individuals can apply for permanent residence based on humanitarian and compassionate considerations. This pathway is typically for people with strong ties to Canada who would face hardship if required to leave.
4. Other Programs: Options like the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) aim to attract newcomers to smaller communities and regions in Canada.

Each pathway has specific eligibility criteria regarding work experience, education, language skills, and other factors. Navigating these options can be complex, and it's important to choose the path that best fits your circumstances.

For personalized assistance in exploring these immigration pathways and assessing your eligibility, consider using Aïa, our immigration assistant, for a free assessment.

To apply for permanent residence, Ukrainians without family in Canada must first select a suitable immigration pathway, such as Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The application process generally involves the following steps:

1. Create an Express Entry profile if you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes providing details about your work experience, education, language proficiency, and other personal information.
2. Submit necessary documents, such as an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify your foreign education, language test results like IELTS or CELPIP, and proof of work experience.
3. Apply through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) if you're interested in settling in a specific province. This may involve submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) or a direct application to the province.

Fees range from $1,365 CAD for individuals, with higher amounts if dependents are included.

Navigating the immigration process can be complex. If you need personalized guidance to determine the best pathway for you, consider using Aïa, our immigration assistant, for a free assessment.

Yes, Ukrainians without family in Canada can apply for permanent residence through both Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Express Entry manages programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Alternatively, PNPs allow provinces to nominate applicants based on specific provincial labor needs.

Applicants must meet requirements related to work experience, education, and language proficiency. Application fees for Express Entry start at $1,365 CAD for the principal applicant, while fees for PNPs vary by province.

If you're considering these pathways and need assistance, Aïa, our immigration assistant, can provide a free eligibility assessment and guide you through the application process.

To get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), Ukrainians need to choose a designated organization such as World Education Services (WES) or Comparative Education Service (CES). Steps include:

1. Creating a profile  
2. Submit Academic Documents: Send official transcripts and diplomas.
3. Pay the Fees: Fees typically range from $200 to $250 CAD.
4. Processing Time: Expect results within 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the organization.

The ECA verifies that foreign education credentials are equivalent to Canadian standards, which is essential for immigration applications like Express Entry.

Ukrainians must prove language proficiency by taking an approved language test in either English or French. Accepted tests include:

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) – General Training for English.
2. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) – General Test for English. 3. PTE ( Pearson Test of English)
3. TEF (Test d'évaluation de français) or TCF (Test de connaissance du français) for French.

A minimum score of CLB 7 is typically required for programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). Language tests must be taken within 2 years of the application.

The IMM 0191 form, used to declare common-law relationships, can be downloaded from the IRCC website. It must be completed, signed in the presence of a commissioner for oaths or notary public, and submitted with your application.

If you intend to live in Quebec, you must apply for a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ) through the Quebec Immigration Ministry website and creating an account on the Arrima portal.

The CSQ is required before you can apply for permanent residence under federal immigration programs. Fees and processing times for the CSQ vary, and you must meet specific Quebec criteria.

For Ukrainians applying under the family reunification pathway, the required documents include:

1. Proof of Family Relationship: Birth or marriage certificates to confirm your relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Passport: A valid Ukrainian passport or travel documents.
3. Temporary Resident Permit: Proof of valid temporary resident status in Canada (e.g., under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel - CUAET).
4. Biometric Data: Fingerprints and a photograph.
5. Additional Supporting Documents: Medical examination results, police certificates, and evidence of financial support if necessary.

Applications must be submitted before October 22, 2024.

If you need assistance with gathering these documents or navigating the application process, you might find our dedicated services for Ukrainians helpful.

For Ukrainians without family in Canada applying for permanent residence, the following documents are typically required:

1. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): To verify your foreign educational credentials and ensure they are equivalent to Canadian standards.
2. Language Proficiency Test Results: Scores from approved tests like IELTS or TEF to demonstrate your proficiency in English or French.
3. Proof of Work Experience: Letters from previous employers detailing your job duties, dates of employment, and responsibilities.
4. Passport: A valid passport or travel documents.
5. Proof of Funds: Financial documents showing you have sufficient funds to support yourself (and your family, if applicable) during your settlement in Canada.
6. Biometric Data: Fingerprints and a photo for security and identity verification.
7. These documents are essential for immigration programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

If you need assistance preparing your application or have questions about the required documents, Aïa, our immigration assistant, can provide personalized guidance to help you navigate the process.

If you do not have a valid passport, you can provide alternative identity documents such as a national ID card, birth certificate, or other government-issued photo ID. You may also need to explain why a passport cannot be provided.

An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is used to verify that a foreign degree, diploma, or certificate is equivalent to a Canadian credential. It’s required for certain immigration programs like Express Entry.

To obtain an ECA, choose an IRCC-designated organization (e.g., World Education Services (WES)), submit your educational documents (transcripts, diplomas), and pay the processing fee (around $200-$250 CAD). Processing typically takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the organization.

To complete the IMM 0008 (Generic Application Form for Canada), you need to submit the following supporting documents:

• Passport or Travel Document: Ensure it is valid and up to date.
• Proof of Family Relationship: Such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate; you may also need to complete the IMM 5406 (Additional Family Information Form).
• Language Test Results: IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF results, if applicable.
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Required for skilled worker programs to verify your foreign education credentials.
• Proof of Funds: Financial documents showing you have sufficient funds to support yourself (if required).
• Police Certificates and Medical Exam Results: As part of the security and health requirements.
• Biometric Data Submission: Fingerprints and photo when requested by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Ensure all forms and supporting documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing your application.

If you need assistance with the application process or gathering the necessary documents, our dedicated services for Ukrainians can provide guidance to help you navigate each step.

Yes, Ukrainians applying for permanent residence under the special measures generally need to pay standard immigration fees. These include the processing fee of $550 CAD and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) of $515 CAD. 

Yes, fee waivers apply for some work and study permit extensions under the CUAET program until March 31, 2024. However, there are no specific fee waivers for permanent residence applications, and applicants must typically pay the standard processing fees.

The key deadline for Ukrainians with family in Canada applying under the special permanent residence program is October 22, 2024. It's important to submit your application before this date to benefit from the special measures in place. Other significant deadlines include:

• March 31, 2024: Last date to apply for extensions of work or study permits under the special measures.
• March 31, 2025: Final date to access federally funded settlement services in Canada.

Given these approaching deadlines, it's advisable to start your application process as soon as possible. If you need assistance, consider beginning your application today to ensure you don't miss these important opportunities.

The final date to apply for Canada's special permanent residence program for Ukrainians with family in Canada is October 22, 2024. It's crucial to submit your application before this deadline to take advantage of the special measures.

If you're ready to start your application or need guidance, don't wait, begin your process today to ensure you meet the deadline.

There are no specific deadlines for Ukrainians without family in Canada to apply through economic immigration pathways like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). However, it is important to apply as soon as you meet the eligibility criteria, as these programs operate on a rolling basis with regular Express Entry draws and provincial nomination cycles.

For personalized guidance and to assess your eligibility, start your application process today to ensure you don’t miss any upcoming opportunities.

Timelines for different immigration pathways for Ukrainians without family in Canada vary:

• Express Entry: The average processing time is around 6 months after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Timelines can range from 3 to 18 months, depending on the province and its specific processing times.

Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds: These applications can take between 12 to 36 months due to the complexity of the assessments.

Since processing times can vary, it's important to apply as soon as possible. If you're ready to start, consider using Aïa, our immigration assistant for a free assessment and to help navigate your options.

If you miss the October 22, 2024 deadline for the special permanent residence program for Ukrainians with family in Canada, you will no longer be eligible for this specific pathway. You may need to explore other immigration options, such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or applying on humanitarian grounds. Additionally, missing the deadline may limit your access to certain settlement services and fee exemptions offered under the special measures.

To avoid missing out on these opportunities, start your application process today and ensure you're on track to meet the deadline.

Ukrainians can access federally funded settlement services in Canada until March 31, 2025, under the special measures. These services include language training, job search assistance, and other support programs to help integrate into Canadian society.

To ensure you make the most of these services before the deadline, consider exploring your options and start planning your settlement process early.

Key dates for the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program and how they affect permanent residence applications include:

• March 31, 2024: Deadline to extend work or study permits under the special measures.
• October 22, 2024: Final deadline to apply for permanent residence under the family reunification program.

Missing these deadlines may impact your eligibility for settlement services and fee exemptions. To ensure you don’t miss out on these opportunities, start your application process today and stay ahead of the key dates.

After submitting a permanent residence application, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will review the application. You will receive updates via email or your IRCC account regarding any requests for additional documents, biometrics, or medical exams. Once processing is complete, you'll be notified of the decision.

Ukrainians can track their permanent residence application status through the IRCC online portal. After submitting the application, you will receive login details to monitor progress, check for any missing documents, and receive updates on your application status.

Permanent residence applications under the special measures typically take around 6 to 12 months to process, depending on the completeness of the application and any additional document requests.

Yes, Ukrainians can continue working in Canada if they have a valid work permit while their permanent residence application is being processed. If the work permit is set to expire, you must apply for an extension or a bridging open work permit to maintain your ability to work legally during the process.

As a permanent residence applicant in Canada, you have the right to legal due process, meaning your application must be processed fairly. You also have the right to remain in Canada if you hold valid temporary status (work or study permits). You can apply for a bridging open work permit if your current permit expires while your permanent residence application is in progress.

You are also entitled to receive notifications regarding the status of your application and to respond to any additional requests from IRCC.

Yes, Ukrainians applying for permanent residence are typically required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) and police certificates from any country where they have lived for six months or more since the age of 18.

Biometrics are part of security checks, and police certificates help confirm that you do not have a criminal record that would make you inadmissible to Canada.

If your temporary resident status is about to expire, you must apply for a status extension (e.g., a bridging open work permit). Allowing your status to lapse could result in the refusal of your permanent residence application and could require you to restore status within 90 days.

Ukrainians applying for permanent residence in Canada can access a range of support and resources, including:

• Settlement Services: These provide assistance with housing, community integration, and general support for newcomers.
• Language Training: Programs are available to help improve English or French skills.
• Job Search Assistance: Resources for finding employment and preparing for the Canadian job market.
• Legal Advice: Community organizations and government-funded agencies offer guidance on immigration processes and document preparation.

Additionally, tools like Aïa, our immigration assistant, are available to provide real-time guidance on the steps involved in applying for permanent residence and navigating the process smoothly.

Ukrainian applicants can access settlement and support services through government-funded organizations and local immigrant service centers. Services include language training, employment assistance, and help with housing and healthcare enrollment. To access these, you can visit a local settlement agency or check the IRCC website for programs available in your area. Support is available until March 31, 2025, for those applying under the special measures.

Yes, Ukrainians applying for permanent residence can access free language courses through programs like the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC), which offers English and French training. These courses are government-funded and help improve language proficiency, which is essential for integration and employment in Canada. Additionally, many settlement agencies offer language support to help newcomers succeed in their personal and professional lives.

Ukrainians can find assistance with their permanent residence application through settlement agencies, legal aid organizations, and immigrant service centers across Canada. These agencies help with document preparation, legal advice, and navigating the application process. The IRCC website also provides official guidelines and resources.

For real-time guidance, you can use Aïa, our immigration assistant, which offers step-by-step support throughout the process.

Yes, the IRCC provides a dedicated Ukraine immigration hotline and specialized resources for Ukrainian applicants. You can also access settlement services and legal aid through government-funded agencies.

Yes, Ukrainians can work in Canada while waiting for permanent residence approval if they hold a valid work permit. If their work permit is close to expiring, they can apply for a bridging open work permit to maintain their ability to work legally during the processing of their permanent residence application.

Yes, Ukrainians can study in Canada while applying for permanent residence if they hold a valid study permit. They may also apply to extend their study permits if they are still in Canada, ensuring they maintain their legal status while the permanent residence application is processed.

Ukrainians can find jobs through government job portals like the Job Bank, settlement agencies, and private job boards. Many immigrant service agencies offer job search assistance, resume writing help, and access to local employers. Having a valid work permit is essential to legally work in Canada while the permanent residence application is processed.

There are no special provisions, but Ukrainians must obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) through an IRCC-designated organization to verify that their qualifications meet Canadian standards. This is required for most economic immigration programs.

No, Canadian work experience is not mandatory for all permanent residence programs. Programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) do require Canadian work experience, but for other pathways, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), foreign work experience along with education and language proficiency are sufficient to qualify.

If you're unsure which pathway is right for you, Aïa, our immigration assistant, can help you assess your eligibility and guide you through the process.