In response to Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Canada continues to adjust its support for Ukrainian

In response to Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Canada continues to adjust its support for Ukrainian nationals who have sought temporary refuge within its borders. Recent changes to the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program reflect this ongoing commitment.

Closure of Overseas Application Intake

·      The overseas application intake under CUAET closed on July 1 5, 2023.

·      CUAET holders had until March 31, 2024, to travel to Canada under these special measures.

Extension of CUAET Measures

• IRCC is extending certain CUAET measures to individuals who applied overseas before the deadline and experienced processing delays, receiving a positive decision on or after February 4, 2024.
•  These individuals have until July 31, 2024, to arrive in Canada and can apply for inland study and open work permits free of charge once approved.

Availability of Settlement Services

·      Settlement services will remain available to all Ukrainian temporary residents and their dependents in Canada until March 31, 2025, ensuring their full integration into Canadian communities.

·      One-time financial assistance and emergency temporary accommodations will no longer be available to CUAET holders arriving after March 31, 2024. 

Work Permit Provisions

·      Ukrainians approved for a work permit under CUAET before February 4, 2024, may still come to Canada and receive their work permit upon arrival.

·      Those approved for a CUAET visa before February 4, 2024, but who did not apply for a work permit, will be able to come to Canada but cannot apply for work or study permits after March 31, 2024.

·      A pathway to permanent residence is available for qualifying Ukrainian nationals, aimed at keeping families together and allowing them to build their lives in Canada.

·      Regular immigration pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class, remain available for Ukrainians seeking permanent settlement in Canada.

·      As of March 23, 2024, more than 286,700 Ukrainians had arrived in Canada through the CUAET program.