Immigration Announcement
Ukrainians under the CUAET Program No Longer Eligible for Canadian Entry
As of March 31, 2024, significant changes have come into effect regarding the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, impacting the eligibility of Ukrainian nationals to enter Canada under special measures.
CUAET Deadlines
March 31st, 2024 marks three crucial deadlines for the CUAET program, with two directly affecting the program itself and the third concerning post-CUAET measures outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Deadlines 1 and 2: CUAET Program
Firstly, March 31, 2024, signifies the final day for eligible visa holders to enter Canada under the CUAET special measures. Those who hold a visitor visa under CUAET must have arrived in Canada by today to avail themselves of the support offered through this program. Notably, failure to do so will render them ineligible for CUAET-related support and subject to Canada’s general entry requirements.
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Additionally, it marks the deadline for individuals in Canada under CUAET to apply for extensions or changes to their temporary resident status through the program. This includes the conclusion of the waiver on application fees related to these processes.
Deadline 3: Post-CUAET Measures
For Ukrainian nationals and their family members already in Canada under CUAET, today serves as the deadline to apply for an open work permit, a study permit, or to extend their stay for up to three years under IRCC’s post-CUAET measures.
About CUAET
The CUAET program was introduced to grant Ukrainians and their families extended temporary status in Canada until it was deemed safe for them to return home. This initiative offered Ukrainian nationals and their family members a dedicated pathway to obtaining temporary resident status in Canada for up to three years.
Eligible applicants pursuing temporary residence through CUAET were exempted from paying application fees associated with the visitor visa and could apply for an open work permit at no additional cost.
Transition to Post-CUAET Measures
In light of the cessation of the CUAET program, Ukrainian nationals seeking to remain in Canada can explore alternative pathways. IRCC has introduced two dedicated permanent residence streams for Ukrainians with Canadian family ties, effective since October 23, 2023.
- Stream 1: Designed for Ukrainian nationals who are family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, including spouses, children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, and siblings.
- Stream 2: Targeted at spouses or common-law partners of Ukrainian nationals with family ties in Canada, including Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
As the CUAET program concludes, Ukrainian nationals must navigate the evolving landscape of immigration options in Canada. While the program’s termination marks a transition, alternative pathways to temporary and permanent residency remain accessible. Affected individuals need to stay informed about their eligibility and explore available options to secure their status in Canada.
