Image from Canadian Press

By Connor Gunn with files from Canadian Press

Ukrainians fleeing conflict can stay in Canada for three years

Mar 17, 2022 | 1:58 PM

OTTAWA, ON – The federal government will allow Ukrainians who have fled Russian aggression in their country to come to Canada on a temporary basis for three years while they decide their next steps.

Initially, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser said Ukrainians would be allowed to stay temporarily for two years before deciding whether to apply to stay permanently.

In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Canada is lending a hand and announced the launch of the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET).

Under the CUAET, Ukrainians and family members can stay in Canada as temporary residents for up to 3 years.

Applicants are encouraged to apply for a three-year open work permit at the same time as their visa application.

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The federal release says this permit will allow them to work in Canada. Under this special program, many of the regular requirements associated with a normal visitor visa or work permit have been waived.

It also states that applicants who do not have a valid passport may still apply, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will issue a single journey travel document on a case-by-case basis, where appropriate.

“Ukrainian workers, students, and visitors and their family members who are already in Canada also benefit from these measures. They may either apply to extend their visitor status or work permit for three years, apply for a new work or study permit, or extend their existing permit. IRCC will waive all extension and work or study permit application fees,” the release adds.

Fees for these programs will be waived to make it easier for applicants.

Ukrainians will also be assisted by the Canadian government with offers of employment to register these offers on Job Bank’s Jobs for Ukraine webpage.

The federal government says they hope these measures can help as many people as possible to flee Ukraine as the invasion continues.