Ukrainians in Canada: A New Path to Permanent Residency

Canada has always been a beacon for immigrants, embracing diversity and unity. In a significant development, the Canadian government has introduced a brand-new pathway to permanent residency for Ukrainian temporary residents, reuniting families and offering a brighter future. This blog explores the eligibility criteria and application process for this groundbreaking opportunity.

A Bridge to Permanent Residency

As of October 23, 2023, Canada has opened its arms wider to Ukrainian temporary residents, presenting them with a unique chance to attain permanent resident status. This initiative aims to strengthen family bonds and foster a closer Ukrainian community in Canada.

Eligibility Criteria for the Ukrainian Family Reunification Pathway

To embark on this exciting journey towards permanent residency, Ukrainian temporary residents must meet specific eligibility criteria:

1. In-Canada Requirement: Applicants must be physically present in Canada when they submit their application. This ensures that the process is exclusively available to those currently residing in the country.
2. Valid Temporary Resident Status: Candidates should hold valid temporary resident status in Canada at the time of application submission. If their status has expired for less than 90 days, they have the option to apply for restoration.
3. Travel Document or Supporting Identity Documents: Applicants are required to possess a valid passport or travel document. If they do not have one, they must provide supporting identity documents to establish their identity.
4. Meeting Admissibility Requirements: All applicants must meet the admissibility criteria set by the Canadian immigration authorities.

Establishing Family Relationships

In both eligibility categories, it is crucial for the Ukrainian national or their spouse or common-law partner to demonstrate a family relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This includes relationships with:

1. Spouse or common-law partner
2. Child (regardless of age)
3. Grandchild
4. Parent
5. Grandparent
6. Sibling (or half-sibling)

Category 1: Ukrainian Nationals

Category 1 candidates must be Ukrainian nationals. Additionally, they are required to provide a signed statutory declaration form (IMM 0191) from their family member in Canada, explaining the nature of their relationship.

Category 2: Spouse or Common-Law Partner

Category 2 is designed for candidates who are the spouse or common-law partner of a Ukrainian national with family in Canada. In this case, the spouse or partner must meet certain conditions:

1. They are unable to leave Ukraine.
2. They are missing.
3. They have passed away or are presumed to have passed away.

Eligible candidates in this category should not have remarried or entered into a common-law relationship with another person since leaving Ukraine. Similar to Category 1, they must provide a signed statutory declaration form (IMM 0191) from their spouse or partner's family member in Canada, explaining the relationship.

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clarified that this new pathway will not affect the number of spaces available through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). Ukrainians who are accepted under this pathway will be in addition to any family members who come to Canada through the PGP.

Application Deadline

Families looking to leverage this family reunification pathway have until October 22, 2024, to submit their applications. Notably, unlike other family-class sponsorship programs, the Canadian citizen or permanent resident family member will not be required to sign a financial undertaking.

The Canada Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET)

In response to the turmoil in Ukraine, the Canadian government introduced the Canada Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) in March 2022. This program allowed Ukrainian citizens to apply for a visitor visa and a temporary work permit at no cost between March 2022 and July 2023.

As of September 30, 2023, IRCC figures show that 1,189,372 applications were received through CUAET, with 909,464 applications approved, and 185,753 Ukrainians having arrived in Canada. Ukrainian applicants were exempted from many of the usual fees for temporary residents, including those for:

1. Temporary resident status extensions (visitor record)
2. Restoration of status
3. Study permits and extensions
4. Work permits and extensions (including open work permits)
5. Temporary resident permits
6. Biometrics

Until June, the Government of Canada also offered a one-time settlement support fee of $3,000 to eligible applicants. As of July 15, 2023, IRCC stopped accepting applications through CUAET, but it continues to process any applications received on or before that date. Those who have been approved but have not yet arrived in Canada have until March 31, 2024, to arrive under these special measures. After the March deadline, approved Ukrainian nationals who have not yet arrived in Canada will be subject to regular processing and fees for a temporary resident (visitor) visa. They must wait until they arrive in Canada to apply for a work or study permit.

The introduction of the new family reunification pathway and the CUAET program showcases Canada's enduring commitment to offering refuge and opportunity to those in need. This not only strengthens the Ukrainian community in Canada but also demonstrates the nation's compassion and inclusivity.

Considering Migrating to Canada? Get Expert Guidance with Pelican Migration Consultants

If you're eager to seize the opportunity presented by the new family reunification pathway for Ukrainians in Canada and embark on your journey towards permanent residency, expert guidance can be invaluable. Pelican Migration Consultants, a leading name in immigration consultants in Dubai, specializes in helping individuals achieve their dream of migrating to Canada.

With a deep understanding of the Express Entry Canada system and the Canada PR visa process, Pelican Migration Consultants offers the expertise and support you need. Our seasoned professionals can navigate the intricacies of Canadian immigration, ensuring that your application is meticulously prepared and optimized for success.

Don't miss out on this chance to make Canada your new home. Reach out to Pelican Migration Consultants today and let us guide you on your path to becoming a Canadian permanent resident. Your dream of a brighter future in Canada is within reach.