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Immigration Measures for Ukraine: Support and Guidance

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by Kathy Watkins

Support for Ukrainian Immigration to Canada

Immigration to Canada is implementing specialized strategies to streamline and fast-track the immigration process for Ukrainian individuals aiming for temporary or permanent residence in Canada. The organization dedicates its efforts to speeding up the handling of visa applications and crucial documentation, providing Ukrainians with a more seamless relocation experience.

These initiatives are designed to give Ukrainian citizens preferential treatment, underscoring Canada’s dedication to ensuring smooth and rapid immigration processes. Through these measures, Immigration to Canada is committed to offering a supportive pathway for those in search of new opportunities and beginnings in Canada, responding to the increasing need for immediate and effective immigration solutions.

Immigration Measures for Ukraine

Special Programs for Ukrainian Immigrants

Immigration to Canada is committed to providing support to Ukrainians affected by the current conflict with Russia. We present various immigration opportunities and support services customized for Ukrainian citizens, managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Important measures include:

Routes to Permanent Residency for Ukrainian Nationals

Immigration to Canada has launched two specialized family sponsorship pathways tailored for Ukrainian citizens living in Canada. The first, the “Family Ties Stream,” is accessible to Ukrainian nationals with relatives who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents. The second, “Partner Connection Stream,” is designed for Ukrainian nationals married to or in a common-law partnership with another Ukrainian whose family is based in Canada.

Family Ties in Canada

Eligible individuals may apply for permanent residency in Canada through this program by meeting the following conditions: 

Furthermore, the Canadian family member endorsing the application must fulfill these criteria:

Category 2: Eligibility for Spouses or Common-Law Partners of Ukrainian Nationals

Immigration to Canada provides a route to permanent residency for certain individuals through this specialized program, with specific criteria to qualify:

Furthermore, the Canadian family member must:

Who is Ineligible to Apply?

Individuals are not eligible if: 

Immigration Measures for Ukraine

Enhanced Support Services for Ukrainian Nationals

Immigration to Canada has introduced a set of timely initiatives to aid Ukrainians and current Ukraine residents, as well as to assist Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members in returning swiftly to Canada. These measures include: 

A dedicated hotline is now operational for immigration inquiries specific to Ukraine, providing assistance to callers both domestically and internationally. You can reach this service at 613-321-4243, with collect calls accepted. To expedite responses, inquiries through the IRCC web form should include the keyword "Ukraine2022."

There is urgent processing available for travel documents, covering single-trip travel documents for immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents without valid passports.

The Canadian government is expediting the extension of work and study permits for Ukrainians, allowing them to prolong their stay or continue working in Canada. A temporary policy permits individuals to apply for a work permit from within the country. Those who have received job offers can remain and start employment while their work permit applications are being processed.

Open work permits are being issued to Ukrainians currently in Canada as visitors, workers, or students who are unable to return home.

Travel and immigration document fees have been waived, including those for Canadian passports, permanent resident travel documents, proof of citizenship, visitor visas, and work or study permits.

Ukrainian nationals interested in immigrating permanently have multiple channels available via different immigration programs and pathways. Ukrainian citizens interested in permanent immigration have several options available through various immigration programs and pathways.

Eligible temporary residents can access Settlement Program Services through the CUAET, which includes: 

Support Initiatives for Ukrainian Citizens

Alberta

In light of the ongoing situation in Ukraine, Alberta has introduced temporary policies to assist Ukrainian citizens through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). This initiative ensures expedited processing of immigration applications and services for Ukrainians. All application and service fees are waived for Ukrainian applicants. Moreover, those experiencing difficulties in obtaining necessary documents due to the conflict may have the option to submit applications that are not fully complete.

British Columbia

British Columbia has launched a “Welcoming Ukraine” online platform to aid Ukrainians moving to the area: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/tourism-immigration/ukraine/welcome. This resource is available in Ukrainian and Russian, providing an additional support layer to the existing Service BC offerings.

Manitoba

In response to the Ukrainian crisis, Manitoba is conducting regular Expression of Interest (EOI) draws targeted at individuals impacted by the conflict who also meet the eligibility requirements of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program.

New Brunswick

New Brunswick has created a dedicated webpage to connect Ukrainian immigrants with a variety of support services throughout the province. The information is accessible both in English and Ukrainian.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador have introduced the Ukrainian Family Support Desk to assist residents wishing to bring Ukrainian relatives to the province. This initiative has led to the establishment of an office in Poland where staff members collaborate with the Canadian Embassy to help Ukrainian refugees with resettlement procedures. This office provides information sessions about immigration possibilities and available support while also helping Ukrainians establish connections with prospective employers within the province. The Ukrainian Family Support Desk can be contacted via email at UkrainianFamily@gov.nl.ca. Ukrainians who are planning to come to, or have recently arrived in Newfoundland and Labrador, can reach out to the provincial government by filling out the online service registration form or by visiting the designated website.

Nova Scotia’s Efforts to Support Ukrainian Immigrants

Nova Scotia has joined forces with the YMCA to offer guidance and resources to Ukrainians aiming to settle in the community and connect with potential employers. The province is streamlining immigration procedures specifically for Ukrainians through the Skilled Worker and Occupations in Demand categories of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program. Additionally, it provides access to government-funded programs to support their settlement.

Ontario’s Comprehensive Assistance for Ukrainian Immigrants

Immigration to Canada emphasizes Ontario’s leading role in aiding Ukrainian nationals. The Ontario government has developed a specialized website for Ukrainian immigrants, featuring settlement assistance and critical immigration details, accessible as a downloadable PDF in Ukrainian.

Ontario’s extensive support services for new arrivals from Ukraine include:

Prince Edward Island

The province of Prince Edward Island has developed a specialized online platform designed to assist Ukrainian nationals seeking support services in the area. Ukrainian newcomers are encouraged to sign up with the island’s immigrant and refugee service organizations to receive customized help.

Quebec

Renowned for its unique immigration framework, Quebec has instituted a range of initiatives aimed at helping individuals from Ukraine. These measures include:

Saskatchewan

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program is organizing exclusive selection rounds to invite citizens of Ukraine and assist them with their immigration process into Canada.

Yukon

Yukon has launched a dedicated office called the Ukrainian Family Support Office, which strives to help those wishing to settle in Yukon and wider Canada. The office provides critical resources and guidance to both Yukon residents and Ukrainian newcomers to facilitate their residency journey in Canada.

FAQ
What special immigration measures exist for Ukrainians moving to Canada?

Canada has introduced several special measures to support Ukrainians, including expedited processing for visas and immigration applications, emergency travel documents, and priority service for urgent requests from Ukrainians.

How can Ukrainians apply for temporary residency in Canada?

Ukrainians can apply for temporary residency through the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET), which provides a fast-tracked option for those seeking to stay in Canada temporarily for safety and stability.

Are there family sponsorship options available for Ukrainians?

Yes, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their Ukrainian family members under the family sponsorship program. The government has prioritized processing these applications to reunite families swiftly.

What type of support is available for Ukrainian refugees in Canada?

Canada offers various support services for Ukrainian refugees, including access to health care, language training, job search assistance, and settlement services to help integrate into Canadian society effectively.

Can Ukrainians work or study in Canada while on temporary residency?

Yes, Ukrainians who apply through the CUAET can receive open work permits or study permits, allowing them to work or study in Canada and support themselves during their stay.

What are the language requirements for Ukrainians applying for permanent residency in Canada?

Language proficiency in English or French may be required depending on the immigration program. For example, the Express Entry system requires language testing, but there may be exemptions or accommodations for refugees and humanitarian cases.

How is the Canadian government assisting Ukrainians with the immigration process?

The Canadian government has set up dedicated support lines and online resources to help Ukrainians navigate the immigration process. Additionally, they have increased staffing to expedite applications and responded to urgent requests.

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