Canada Launches A Fast-Track Visa Pathway For Ukrainians

March 17, 2022 – The launch of Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CEAET) was announced by Immigration Minister Sean Fraser, this is an accelerated temporary pathway that was created by the IRCC for all the Ukrainians who were fleeing the war.

In this new temporary pathway, Ukrainians along with their immediate family members regardless of nationality may be able to stay in Canada for up to three years. Applicants who were overseas must need to apply online for their visitor visas and provide their biometrics. CUAET applicants were being encouraged by the Canadian government to apply for a three-year open work permit at the same time as their visa application for them to be allowed to work in Canada under any employer. In addition to this, through this special program, many of the regular requirements associated with a visitor pass as well as work permits have been waived. While students who are in elementary and high school level may be able to attend school as soon as they arrive in Canada. For individuals who wanted to study post-secondary level can also apply for a study permit as soon as they land in Canada.

However, the applicants who wish to travel to Canada but do not hold a valid passport may still apply. A single journey travel document will be issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada; but this is on a case-by-case basis. This new measure also includes benefits for all Ukrainian workers, students as well as visitors along with their family members who are already in Canada. The Ukrainians who are already in Canada may either apply to extend their visitor status or work permit for three years as well. They may also either apply for a new work or study permit or extend their existing permit in Canada. Application fees for extension of work and study permit will be waived by the IRCC.

Canadian employers who wanted to support Ukrainians with employment offers may register their offers on Job Bank’s Jobs for Ukraine webpage. With that, Job Bank will work with local organizations along with employers to help them connect with Ukrainians looking for work within their communities.