Path to Permanent Residence for Ukrainians in Canada

As Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine continues, Canada is increasing its efforts to provide sanctuary and support to those affected by the violence. Since the introduction of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) in March 2022, Canada has provided a temporary safe haven to over 166,000 Ukrainians. Today, the Canadian government is not only continuing its efforts to aid those seeking refuge but also extending its services to those who want to make Canada their permanent home.

Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced a new pathway for Ukrainians to keep families together at the NATO Summit in Vilianus, Lithuania. Starting October 23, 2023, this new avenue will offer permanent residence to Ukrainians who fled Russia’s illegal invasion and wish to settle in Canada permanently. To qualify, Ukrainian nationals must hold temporary resident status in Canada and have at least one family member residing in Canada. This includes spouses, common-law partners, parents, grandparents, siblings, and children or grandchildren of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Detailed information about the application process will be provided closer to the program’s October launch.

For Ukrainians holding a CUAET visa, they will have until March 31, 2024, to travel to Canada under the temporary special measures. Even with the discontinuation of overseas applications under CUAET as of July 15, 2023, Ukrainians and their families can still apply for a temporary resident visa under the pre-existing immigration measures.

Once in Canada, these temporary residents will have the opportunity to extend their stay up to three years through study permits and open work permits. To help them thrive in their new home, the Canadian government will prioritize these applications and provide access to vital settlement services such as language training and employment services.

Ukrainians have had until July 15, 2023, to apply overseas for a CUAET visa free of charge. After this date, Ukrainians applying to come to Canada through existing temporary resident programs will be subject to standard fees and requirements. However, those who have already secured a CUAET visa can remain in Canada until March 31, 2024, to extend or adjust their temporary status through these measures, free of charge.

The new pathway to permanent residence does not require a financial undertaking. Families have until October 22, 2024, to submit an application. This pathway will not affect the spaces available through the Parents and Grandparents Program. Ukrainians accepted under this pathway will be in addition to any family members who come to Canada through this program.

The Canadian government, together with provincial, territorial and municipal partners, as well as settlement service providers and the Ukrainian-Canadian community, are committed to welcoming Ukrainians. Minister Fraser emphasized Canada’s commitment to helping Ukrainians find a safe haven and providing them with the necessary support.

The launch of the CUAET and the newly announced permanent residency pathway serve as an unwavering commitment from Canada to help Ukrainians in need. Amid the chaos of the invasion, these measures offer hope and stability for those who have had their lives upended.