In response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting displaced Ukrainians and their families.
The government has announced extensions to certain temporary measures, allowing those who arrived under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) to continue their stay with valid work and study permits.
Extended Deadlines for Work and Study Permits
Ukrainians and their family members who arrived in Canada under CUAET on or before March 31, 2024, now have until March 31, 2026, to apply for new open work permits valid for up to three years, renew existing work permits, or apply for new study permits. Standard application fees apply.
Continued Access to Settlement Services
To facilitate integration, free settlement services for all Ukrainian temporary residents and their families in Canada are available until March 31, 2025.
These services include language training, employment assistance, and community support, aiding newcomers in adapting to life in Canada.
Maintaining Legal Status in Canada
It’s crucial for all CUAET clients in Canada to apply to extend their status before their current visitor record, work permit, or study permit expires.
Applying before the expiry date allows individuals to continue working or studying under maintained status until a decision is made on their application.
Flexibility Regarding Passport Validity
Recognizing the challenges faced by displaced individuals, Canada allows Ukrainians to apply to extend their temporary status even if their passports are not up-to-date.
Each case is assessed individually, ensuring that applicants are not unduly penalized for circumstances beyond their control.
Administrative Deferral of Removals
The Canada Border Services Agency currently has an Administrative Deferral of Removals in place for Ukraine, providing additional security for Ukrainian nationals in Canada during this uncertain time.
Summary of Extended Measures
The table below summarizes the extended measures for Ukrainians and their family members in Canada:
| Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Work Permit Applications | Apply for new open work permits valid for up to three years until March 31, 2026. |
| Study Permit Applications | Apply for new study permits until March 31, 2026. |
| Settlement Services Access | Free services available until March 31, 2025. |
| Status Extension Applications | Must apply before current status expires to maintain legal status. |
| Passport Validity Flexibility | Applications accepted even with expired passports; assessed on a case-by-case basis. |
| Deferral of Removals | Administrative deferral in place for Ukrainian nationals. |
Canada’s extension of these temporary measures underscores its dedication to supporting Ukrainians affected by the ongoing conflict.
By providing extended deadlines for work and study permits, continued access to settlement services, and flexibility in application requirements, Canada ensures that displaced Ukrainians and their families can maintain stability and continue building their lives during these challenging times.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the extended work and study permit deadlines?
Ukrainians and their family members who arrived in Canada under CUAET on or before March 31, 2024, are eligible to apply for new or renewed work and study permits until March 31, 2026.
What services are included in the free settlement support?
Settlement services encompass language training, employment assistance, and community support, available to Ukrainian temporary residents and their families until March 31, 2025.
How can individuals maintain their legal status in Canada?
CUAET clients must apply to extend their status before their current permits expire to continue working or studying under maintained status until a decision is made.