Canada Extends CUAET Measures for Ukrainian Nationals Until 2026
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced an extension of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, which allows Ukrainian nationals in Canada to continue applying for temporary residence status under facilitated processing until March 31, 2026. This extension will affect individuals who have arrived in Canada on or before March 31, 2024, and are currently in Canada under the CUAET measures.
Extended Deadline and Eligibility Criteria
Under the newly extended CUAET measures, Ukrainian nationals currently in Canada can apply to extend their work permits, study permits, or visitor status until March 31, 2026, without the need to go through the regular processing channels. However, applicants who have not yet received a decision on their applications are not eligible for facilitated processing. IRCC clarified that some applications from as far back as 2023 are still under review due to their complexity.
It’s important to note that Ukrainian nationals who arrived in Canada after March 31, 2024, will no longer be able to apply under the CUAET. They will need to follow standard application processes and pay the regular fees for work permits, study permits, or visitor status. If their CUAET application has been rejected, they may still be eligible for temporary residence under other available Canadian pathways.
A Pathway to Permanent Residence
The temporary measures under the CUAET can offer Ukrainian nationals a potential pathway to permanent residence in Canada. While the CUAET itself is designed to address immediate needs and provide temporary status, many eligible Ukrainian nationals may be able to use this time to build work experience or pursue education that will help them meet the eligibility requirements for permanent residence.
Canada’s Express Entry system, which manages applications for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), awards points for work experience, education, and language proficiency. Individuals in Canada under the CUAET who gain work or study experience during their stay may be better positioned to qualify for one of these federal immigration programs.
For example, candidates with work experience in Canada can submit a profile to Express Entry, detailing their age, education, language skills, and work history. They will be given a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on these factors, with those having higher scores being more likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
In addition to Express Entry, Ukrainian nationals under the CUAET may also explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) as a route to permanent residence. These programs reward applicants for their ties to specific provinces, as well as their education, work experience, and language abilities. PNPs can provide candidates with an additional avenue to achieve permanent residency.
Success of the CUAET Program
Since its launch in March 2022, the CUAET has allowed more than 298,000 Ukrainian nationals to enter Canada, providing them with temporary refuge in the wake of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The program has received a staggering 1.18 million applications, with over 80% (approximately 962,612 applications) approved as of the latest figures.
The CUAET program was originally introduced as a temporary emergency measure to assist those fleeing the devastating effects of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It was designed to give Ukrainian nationals expedited access to temporary permits for work, study, or visiting, helping them establish themselves in Canada while navigating the uncertainty of the ongoing conflict.
A Continued Commitment to Ukrainian Nationals
The extension of the CUAET program reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ukrainian nationals in their time of need. It also provides an opportunity for those who arrived earlier under the program to continue building their lives in Canada. Whether through work experience, education, or other measures, Ukrainians in Canada have the chance to establish roots that could eventually lead to permanent residence.
As the situation in Ukraine remains uncertain, these measures provide a degree of stability and hope for Ukrainian nationals seeking refuge. With the extension now in place, more individuals will have the chance to contribute to Canada’s economy, while also pursuing a future in the country.
Next Steps for CUAET Applicants
Ukrainian nationals currently in Canada under the CUAET should ensure that they submit their applications for extensions before the March 31, 2026, deadline. As always, applicants are advised to carefully review the official IRCC guidelines to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and avoid any delays in processing.
Those who arrived in Canada after March 31, 2024, will need to follow standard immigration processes for temporary residence, and IRCC encourages them to explore other available pathways for obtaining work permits, study permits, or visitor status.
For those whose CUAET applications have been rejected, it is important to consult with immigration professionals to understand alternative immigration options.
Looking Ahead
The continued success of the CUAET program and its extension until 2026 are vital steps in ensuring that Canada remains a safe haven for Ukrainian nationals displaced by the ongoing crisis. While the situation evolves, these measures provide a critical support system for Ukrainians looking to rebuild their lives in Canada.
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