New Permanent Residence Pathway for Ukrainians in Canada Announced

Ukrainians in Canada received promising news on Saturday, as the Canadian government unveiled plans to introduce a new pathway for them to apply for permanent residence. This initiative is expected to come into effect on October 23, 2023, offering a significant opportunity for Ukrainians with temporary resident status to establish a more permanent life in Canada.

1. New Permanent Residence Pathway: Starting from October 23, 2023, Ukrainians in Canada holding temporary resident status will have the chance to apply for permanent residence through a newly introduced pathway.
2. Eligibility Criteria: This new pathway is open to Ukrainians in Canada who have at least one family member residing in the country. The family members that make an individual eligible include spouses, common-law partners, parents, grandparents, siblings, children, or grandchildren of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
3. Details to Follow: While the initial announcement has been made, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has promised to release more comprehensive information leading up to the program’s launch in October.
4. Transition Period for CUAET Visa Holders: Ukrainians holding a Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) visa will have until March 31, 2024, to utilize the temporary special measures introduced by the Canadian government. This measure aims to facilitate their travel to Canada.
5. Continued Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) Applications: Although new applications for the CUAET were suspended on July 15, Ukrainians and their family members can still apply for a temporary resident visa (TRV) to enter Canada.
6. Long-Term Prospects in Canada: Once in Canada on a TRV, Ukrainians and their families will have the opportunity to extend their stays for up to three years through study permits and open work permits. This extension will be prioritized by IRCC. Furthermore, they will gain access to essential settlement services, including language training and employment support.
7. Success of CUAET Program: Since its inception in March 2022, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program has proven highly successful, enabling over 166,000 Ukrainians to relocate to Canada.

The Canadian government’s announcement of a new permanent residence pathway for Ukrainians in Canada marks a significant step towards fostering stronger ties between the two nations. This initiative not only supports family reunification but also acknowledges the valuable contributions Ukrainians make to Canada’s cultural diversity and growth. As more details about the program emerge in the coming months, Ukrainians are presented with a promising opportunity to call Canada their permanent home.