With the beginning of a full-scale war in Ukraine, thousands of Ukrainians were forced to seek refuge in various countries around the world. Canada has become one of the most open and friendly countries to Ukrainian refugees. It not only accepted tens of thousands of Ukrainians, but also created conditions for their adaptation, integration into society, employment and education.
The CUAET (Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel) program, launched in March 2022, has become one of the largest humanitarian aid mechanisms. It provided Ukrainians with the opportunity to receive temporary shelter, financial support, access to housing and counseling services. Thanks to this program, almost 300,000 Ukrainians and their families were able to find a safe haven in Canada and receive the right to work and study.
The Canadian government is constantly adapting its measures in accordance with changes in the situation, understanding that the war continues and thousands of Ukrainians still need support. That is why on March 2, 2025, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Mark Miller announced on the extension of this program for another two years.
Ukrainians who arrived in Canada for CUAET before March 31, 2024, will be able to apply for renewal of their documents until March 31, 2026. This means they will have the option of obtaining a new open work permit for up to three years, extending an existing one, or applying for a student visa.
Such measures will allow Ukrainians to work and study without restrictions, contributing to their further integration into Canadian society. There are standard application procedures for those wishing to extend their visitor or student status.
In addition, access to free adaptation programs for temporary Ukrainian residents and their families will be maintained until March 31, 2025. This includes language courses, professional trainings and consulting support, which makes it easier to find a job and settle in a new country.
In order not to lose the right to legal stay, Ukrainians who are in Canada under the CUAET program must apply for an extension of their status before the expiration of the current permit. Even in the absence of a valid passport, you can submit documents for the extension of temporary status – such applications will be considered individually.
Canada also continues the policy of protecting Ukrainian citizens from forced return to their homeland. The Canadian Border Services Agency operates within the framework of the deferred deportation regime, which means that Ukrainians will not be forced to leave the country against their will.
In addition to measures aimed at supporting Ukrainian refugees, Canada updated the Express Entry system – the mechanism for selecting immigrants. Priority will now be given to specialists with work experience in Canada and French-speaking candidates. Separate categories have also been created for workers in the fields of education, health and construction, as these sectors face shortages.
The Canadian government once again demonstrates its support for Ukrainians, not only by extending the terms of the programs, but also by creating conditions for their development and stable life in the new country.
