Toronto 
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is introducing various steps to help Ukrainians fleeing the war in their country.
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser today announced new immigration streams for Ukrainians who want to come to Canada temporarily or permanently.
Fraser said, “I am inspired by the courage Ukrainians have displayed as they uphold the democratic ideals that we cherish in Canada. While they defend themselves against Putin’s costly war of aggression, we will provide safe haven to those who fled to protect themselves and their families. Canadians stand with Ukrainians in their time of need and we will welcome them with open arms.”
For those who want to come to Canada temporarily:
Canada is planning to accept an unlimited number of Ukrainians temporarily under Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel.
The news release states, “There will be no limit to the number of Ukrainians who can apply. This is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians to come to Canada and eliminates many of the normal visa requirements. All Ukrainian nationals will be able to apply through this new path, and, pending background check and security screening, their stay in Canada could be extended by at least 2 years. ”
For those who want to come to Canada permanently:
For Ukrainians who have immediate and extended family members in Canada as Canadian citizens or permanent residents, IRCC is creating a special family reunification sponsorship pathway for permanent residency.
For both classes:
According to the news release, all Ukrainians will be eligible to apply for open work permits once in Canada.
Other Measures:
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will be issuing work permits to Ukrainian visitors, workers and students who are currently in Canada.
- Ukrainian nationals who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or vaccinated with vaccines not recognized by Health Canada against COVID-19 and who hold a temporary resident visa or permit will be allowed to come to Canada.
- Canada will waive fees, retroactive to February 22, 2022 for Canadian passports, permanent resident travel documents, proofs of citizenship, visitor visas, as well as work and study permits.
- IRCC is also prioritizing and urgently processing travel documents for Canadians, permanent residents, and their immediate family members, including issuing single-journey travel documents for immediate family members who do not have valid passports.
How to Apply:
According to the news release, applications for Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel will open in two weeks. Further details on permanent residency programs will be announced “in the coming weeks” and “more information on these new temporary and permanent residence programs, including processing times, will be available in the coming days and weeks.”
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has opened a dedicated service channel for Ukraine immigration enquiries available for clients both in Canada and abroad at 613-321-4243, with collect calls accepted. One can add the keyword “Ukraine2022” to the IRCC crisis web form with the enquiry for priority processing.
More information is given here – Immigration measures for people affected by the situation in Ukraine & here – Canada’s response to the crisis in Ukraine.
