Details Announced for Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel
The CUAET is a special program for Ukrainians and their family members to come to Canada as quickly as possible, and allow them to legally work and study while in Canada. The CUAET program does not have any cap on the number of applications that will be accepted – any Ukrainian citizen or family member is eligible to apply.
Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel Highlights
- Applications are submitted online ONLY – no paper or in-person applications are allowed
- Ukrainian citizens and their family members can travel to Canada even if they don’t have a passport
- Unvaccinated Ukrainian citizens and their families can still travel to Canada via CUAET
- There is no fee to apply
- Approved applicants will receive a Temporary Resident Visa valid for 10 years or until their passport expires
- The visa is valid for multiple entries and allows travel into and outside Canada
- All applicants are eligible to apply for a work permit, which is also fee-exempt
- Study permits will be issued for applicants who are under age 18
- Work permits and study permits will be printed at the Port of Entry (customs) upon arrival
- Applicants will be required to provide biometrics if they have not already done so or the biometrics they provided in the past have expired – NOTE: IRCC has not confirmed how applicants inside Ukraine, where all facilities for biometrics are closed, will be able to provide biometrics. It is possible this may be done at the time of entry to Canada but this has not been confirmed.
There is not yet a pathway to permanent residence created especially for CUAET applicants, however work experience gained by Ukrainian citizens while on a CUAET work permit will count toward permanent residence applications through Express Entry programs such as Canadian Experience Class. All CUAET work permits will be open work permits, allowing the holders to work in any position in any location in Canada.
Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel will also allow for study permits to be issued to Ukrainian citizens so that they can study while they are inside Canada. Please note that minor children who are in Canada even without a valid study permit are legally allowed to study at the primary school and secondary school levels, up to and including the completion of grade 12 (high school).
What does the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel cost?
$0.
All IRCC application fees for all applications submitted through the program will be waived. This includes:
- Visas to travel to Canada (normally $100)
- Open Work Permits to work in Canada (normally $255)
- Study Permits to study in Canada (normally $150)
- Temporary Resident Permit (normally $200)
- Biometrics (normally $85)
How long can Ukrainian citizens stay in Canada on the CUAET Work Permit or Study Permit?
Up to 3 years.
Ukrainian citizens inside Canada are also allowed to apply for the open work permit or study permit, and can remain in Canada for up to 3 years.
How do I apply for the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel?
All applications for CUAET must be submitted online. It is not possible to submit any type of paper application. Applications are also not accepted at any Canadian Embassy, Visa Application Centre location, or other Canadian government office.
Contact IRCC about the situation in Ukraine
If you’re affected by the situation in Ukraine, you can contact IRCC:
- using the IRCC web form (add the keyword UKRAINE2022 in the “Your enquiry” box and we’ll prioritize your request)
- by phone at +1-613-321-4243 (collect calls accepted)
Ukraine Visa Application Centre (VAC) Closure
As of February 24, 2022, all VACs in Ukraine are currently closed until further notice. VACs are located in Ukraine in:
- Lviv
- Kyiv
Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents: If you need a travel document urgently
IRCC is currently processing all applications for family sponsorship, temporary residence, and Canadian citizenship for nationals of Ukraine urgently. This includes:
- Spousal sponsorship
- Common-law sponsorship
- Conjugal sponsorship
- Child sponsorship
- Proof of Canadian citizenship
- Canadian citizenship through adoption
- Canadian passport
- PR Travel Document
- Work Permit
- Visitor Visa
- Study Permit
According to the Prime Minister’s office,
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented measures to quickly issue travel documents to help Canadian citizens, Canadian permanent residents, and their immediate family members in Ukraine get to Canada as quickly as possible should they wish to do so. IRCC is also increasing operational capacity in the region and has enacted priority-processing of applications for proof of citizenship, permanent residence, and temporary residence, including study and work permits, for Ukrainian nationals who want to study, work, reunite with family, or start a new life in Canada.
Proof of Canadian Citizenship – Urgent Processing
Children born to Canadian parents outside Canada may be eligible to receive proof of their Canadian citizenship urgently if they have been displaced from their homes in Ukraine or need to travel to Canada urgently. More information available here.
Emergency Assistance for Canadian citizens in and around Ukraine
Email:
Telephone:
From outside Canada
- Call the nearest embassy or consulate.
- +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available)
- Toll-free numbers in some countries
From inside Canada (non-passport-related)
- 613-996-8885
- 1-800-387-3124 (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada only)
Emergency passport services within Canada (weekends and statutory holidays)
- 1-800-567-6868 (toll-free from Canada only)
SMS:
- +1-613-686-3658 (carrier charges may apply)
WhatsApp:
- +1-613-909-8881 (carrier charges may apply)
TTY (for persons with a hearing loss):
- 613-944-1310
- 1-800-394-3472 (toll-free from the U.S. and Canada only)
From the Department of Foreign Affairs Website https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/emergency-assistance
If we are experiencing a high volume of calls, you may be asked to leave a message. Please follow the instructions carefully. We will return your call as soon as possible.
How to sponsor a Ukrainian refugee
People in Canada can help refugees from Ukraine by sponsoring them to come to Canada. There are different ways you can sponsor a refugee:
- by working with a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH) as a constituent group
- as a Group of Five
As a group, you can sponsor a
- specific refugee or refugee family
- refugee referred by a visa office abroad
Find out more about how to become a Group of Five or find an SAH.
Enter Canada from Ukraine as a Visitor
Citizens of Ukraine frequently come to Canada as visitors to visit family and friends, or as tourists. To come to Canada as a visitor, nationals of Ukraine need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa.
If you have previously applied for a visitor visa which was refused, learn more here.
To qualify for a visa, the applicant must:
- Be in good health
- Have a valid passport or other travel document
- Have no criminal convictions
- Have no immigration-related convictions
- Demonstrate ties to home country (i.e., a job, home, financial assets, or family) that are incentives for the applicant to return home at the end of the permitted stay
- Have sufficient funds for the stay (The amount of money needed varies based on how long one stays and whether accommodations are a hotel, friends, or relatives).
There are 2 categories of documents that need to be provided 1) Application Forms and 2) Supporting Documents.
- Application Forms that need to be completed are:
- Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM5257)
- Family Information form (IMM5707)
- Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM5409) if applicable
- Use of a Representative (IMM5476) if applicable
- Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM5475) if applicable
2. Supporting Documents that need to be provided are:
- A photocopy of the information page of a travel document and any stamps from previous travel
- Poof of financial means to pay for your trip and return home
- Photocopy of marriage certificate/license if applicable
- Purpose of travel
- Photocopy of documents pertaining to current immigration status
The applicant may also need a medical exam and letter of invitation from someone who lives in Canada.
Once the fees are paid and the application is submitted, the applicant will receive a letter from the Visa Office or the VAC (Letter of Instruction) confirming the need for biometric data to be provided and directives on where to go. This letter must be presented when going to the Biometrics appointment. Locations where Biometric data can be provided is listed at the following site: https://www.cic.gc.ca/englis/information/where-to-give-Biometrics.asp
NOTE: As all VACs in Ukraine are currently closed, a passport can be submitted to any other VAC which is open for visa issuance.
* Additional 3rd party fees that applicants may need to pay include educational credential assessments or language testing. Based on the specific circumstances, the instruction guide will outline what fees are required from the applicant.
Things to Keep in Mind!
! All foreign nationals must be admissible to Canada. In other words, applicants from Ukraine must be considered healthy and safe to immigrate, especially while the covid-19 pandemic is still happening.
! Not being truthful on an application, by withholding pertinent information or answering dishonestly is called “misrepresentation” and can result in not only a refusal of the application and but also possibly barring him/her from applying for resident status (inadmissible) for up to 5 years – you must declare any previous refusals for visas or immigration applications, including being denied entry to another country such as the USA.
Come to Canada from Ukraine as a Worker
Generally, the easiest way to come to Canada as a temporary worker is through the IEC (International Experience Canada) Working Holiday Visa. Unfortunately, the IEC working holiday, young professionals, and international co-op program has been closed to Ukrainian applicants for more than a year without any indication of when the program may reopen.
Ukrainian nationals are still eligible to apply for any LMIA-based work permit, or LMIA-exempt work permit such as an Open Spousal Work Permit for the spouses or common-law partners of students and skilled workers.
When the IEC program is open to participation by Ukrainian citizens, there are 3 categories of work permit available:
- Working Holiday
- Young Professionals
- International Co-Op
To participate
- your country or territory of citizenship must have an agreement with Canada or
- you may be able to use a recognized organization
Some countries only allow you to participate once. Others allow you to participate twice, but in different pools. Because each country is different, it’s important that you check to see if you’re eligible to apply.
Even if you’re issued an invitation to apply, you can’t participate more times than your country allows. Make sure you read and understand all the requirements before you submit an application.
NOTE: Even if you hold a refugee travel document issued by a country that has a youth mobility agreement with Canada, you’re not eligible to participate.
NOTE: Your dependants can’t come with you to Canada under the IEC program. However, they may apply to visit, study or work in Canada on their own via a separate application.
NOTE: As a Ukrainian citizen, you may participate in IEC twice, under any category.
Learn how to complete your IEC profile online.
Working Holiday Application From Ukraine
The Working Holiday category is designed for Ukrainian citizens who intend to travel in Canada and who wish to find temporary paid employment to help pay for their trip (up to 12 months).
To be eligible for the Working Holiday category, you must:
- be a Ukrainian citizen
- have a valid Ukrainian passport for the duration of your stay in Canada
- Your work permit in Canada can’t be valid longer than your passport
- be between the ages of 18 and 35 (inclusive)
- have a minimum of CAN$2,500 to help cover your expenses in Canada
- have health insurance for the duration of your stay
- You may have to present evidence of this insurance when you enter Canada
- not be inadmissible to Canada
- have, before departure, a round-trip ticket or demonstrate that you’ll have the financial resources to purchase a departure ticket at the end of your authorized stay in Canada
- not be accompanied by dependants
- pay the fees
Young Professionals Application from Ukraine
The Young Professionals category is designed for Ukrainian citizens, particularly post-secondary graduates, who wish to further their careers by gaining professional work experience in Canada. Participants must have a signed letter of offer or a signed contract of employment (up to 12 months) before submitting a profile to the pool.
To be eligible for the Young Professionals category, you must:
- be a Ukrainian citizen
- have a valid Ukrainian passport for the duration of your stay in Canada
- Your work permit in Canada can’t be valid longer than your passport
- be between the ages of 18 and 35 (inclusive)
- have a minimum of CAN$2,500 to help cover your expenses in Canada
- have health insurance for the duration of your stay
- You may have to present evidence of this insurance when you enter Canada
- not be inadmissible to Canada
- have, before departure, a round-trip ticket or demonstrate that you’ll have the financial resources to purchase a departure ticket at the end of your authorized stay in Canada
- have a signed letter of offer or contract of employment in Canada
- The employment offer must be in your field of expertise (through schooling or work experience) and contribute to your professional development
- not be accompanied by dependants
- pay the fees
International Co-Op Application from Ukraine
The International Co-op (Internship) category is designed for Ukrainian citizens who are enrolled at a post-secondary institution in Ukraine. Participants must be registered students for the duration of the internship. Participants must want to complete a work placement or internship in Canada as part of their academic curriculum (up to 12 months).
Participants must have a signed letter of offer or a signed contract of employment before submitting their profile to the pool.
To be eligible for the International Co-op (Internship) category, you must:
- be a Ukrainian citizen
- have a valid Ukrainian passport for the duration of your stay in Canada
- Your work permit in Canada can’t be valid longer than your passport
- be between the ages of 18 and 35 (inclusive)
- be registered as a student at a post-secondary institution in Ukraine
- have a minimum of CAN$2,500 to help cover your expenses in Canada
- have health insurance for the duration of your stay
- You may have to present evidence of this insurance when you enter Canada
- not be inadmissible to Canada
- have, before departure, a round-trip ticket or demonstrate that you’ll have the financial resources to purchase a departure ticket at the end of your authorized stay in Canada
- have a signed letter of offer or a signed contract for a work placement, or an internship in Canada that meets the requirements of your academic curriculum in Ukraine
- not be accompanied by dependants
- pay the fees
Come to Canada as a Student from Ukraine
Ukrainian nationals can also move to Canada as a student through a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Ukrainian citizens who plan to study a program in Canada which is less than 6 months in duration are allowed to do so while in Canada on a visitor visa. However, a Ukrainian national between the ages 14 to 79, wanting to study in Canada for longer than 6 months, a Study Permit (with biometric data) will be required. A Study Permit is usually valid for the length of the study program, plus an extra 90 days, to allow students to apply for an extension or to prepare to leave Canada.
Studying at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
To be issued a study permit, students must intend to study at an eligible Designated Learning Institution in Canada. Ukrainian citizens must meet the following requirements:
– must be enrolled at a DLI in Canada;
– must prove possession of enough money to pay for tuition fees, living expenses for self and any family members who will accompany student to Canada and return transportation for self family members who accompany student to Canada;
– must be willing to obey Canadian laws;
– must not have criminal record;
– must be able to provide a police certificate (if required);
– must be in good health and get a medical exam (if required); and
– must be able to prove to an officer the willingness to leave at the end of the allowed study term in Canada.
To apply for a Study Permit the following documents are required in either of Canada’s official languages (English or French). A certified translation is required if the original is not in either language:
1) Proof of Acceptance – the school must provide a Letter of Acceptance (hard copy or electronic) that is submitted with the Study Permit application.
2) Proof of Identity – a Passport or Travel Document needs to be provided (electronic copy of the information page) for each person joining the student in Canada, as well as 2 photos of each person with their name and Date of Birth on the back.
3) Proof of Financial Support – evidence must be provided for financial independence for the Student and those accompanying, while in Canada studying.
4) Letter of Explanation – a letter, providing an outline of why Canada is the country of choice for the study program, must be submitted as well as demonstration that the applicant understands his / her responsibilities while in Canada.
5) A Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) – this document, which the school can assist with, is required if the applicant wishes to study in Québec.
6) A Custodian Declaration is required if the student is a minor (under 18 years of age).
Top 3 Study Permit Application Mistakes
If a Ukrainian national is applying for an extension of Study Permit, they may or may not need to provide updated biometric information. If biometric data has previously been submitted the data may still be valid. Check the status tool at: https://onlineservices-servicesenligne.cic.gc.ca/extapp/termsAndConditions?&lang=en
* Biometrics need to be provided at Visa Application Centres (VACs) worldwide or at an Application Support Centers (ASCs) in the United States and its territories or at a designated Service Canada Office (SCOs). Appointments need to be made at a location near the applicant and fees paid before the appointment. Applicants have 90 days from the date of the letter to submit their biometric information.
NOTE: A few days before the biometrics appointment, applicants should check if the respective office is open in case of extenuating circumstances.
The following Office Specific documents are also needed, when applying from Ukraine:
1) Proof of current employment or studies – a letter on letterhead from the employer or school, outlining either the position/salary or the program of study.
2) Evidence of previous study or travel – evidence of completion of previous related studies or international studies/travel.
3) Proof of income and funds – evidence to show financial resources (i.e. income, assets, funds, etc.) and those of any individual providing financial assistance.
4) Family Information Form IMM5707.
5) Copy of Current Immigration Document – if renewing a permit then a copy of the current visitor visa, Study, or Work Permit need to be provided.
6) Evidence for purpose of studies – outline of CV or resume to show why studies in Canada are sought, and an explanation of why the student wants to attend this program.
7) Schedule 1 (IMM5257B) will need to be completed if any of the background questions on the Application were answered with “yes”.
Further details are available at: https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/student.asp?countrySelect=IE#applications
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND!
! If a Ukrainian national who is coming to study in Canada has a legal partner/spouse who they would like to bring with them for the term of the study permit, this person is eligible to apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit. However, only the spouses or partners of students enrolled in a PGWP eligible program are eligible for the SOWP.
Come to Canada from Ukraine as a Permanent Resident
The “Express Entry” online system for immigrating to Canada processes applications as quickly as six months. The applicant creates a Profile to apply for Permanent Residence (PR) status and completes the sections, resulting in points being awarded to each category of the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The goal of the point system is to forecast the likeliness of the applicant succeeding in their life in Canada if they were to be granted permanent resident status. Factors taken into consideration for the evaluation are: the applicant’s previous work experience, training, knowledge, and what they have to offer socially and economically. The Government of Canada extends an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent resident status to candidates scoring the highest number of total points.
Citizens of Ukraine who want to immigrate to Canada may want to consider the following Express Entry programs:
-
Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Class
-
Federal Skilled Trades (FST) Class
-
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
-
Provincial Nomination Program (PNP)
-
Family Class
The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Class allows Ukrainian nationals with training and experience in designated professions to apply for permanent residency in Canada. CRS Points are earned depending on skilled work experience, English/French language abilities, education, proof of funds, admissibility, and other factors (including age, existence of a job offer, and adaptability). Depending on the applicant’s ranking, an ITA to apply for permanent residency will — or will not — be sent to them by the government. ITAs are sent to those with the highest scores.
Ukrainian citizens applying through this stream must provide evidence of their skilled work experience, as outlined by the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system, in one of the following job groups:
- Managerial job (Skill Type “0”) – in areas such as factories, offices, or resorts.
- Professional job (Skill Level “A”) – such as architects, accountants, lawyers, teachers, medical workers.
- Technical job and skilled trades (Skill Level “B”) – such as chefs, plumbers, electricians.
The following process outline is only for applicants seeking to reside in provinces outside of Québec, as that province has its own selection process for skilled workers.
Skilled Work
Ukrainian citizens, applying for this stream must demonstrate that, they previously gained experience and performed the duties outlined in the lead statement of the NOC description, including all essential duties and most of the main duties for the job (with the same NOC code) that they are seeking to work in upon immigrating to Canada. The previous professional experience must have been paid work (not internships or volunteer service) and gained within the last 10 years, for at least one continuous year of employment.
Note: Both full-time and part-time employment periods qualify, based on the hours earned. Student work experience may also count so long as the work was paid, was continuous and meets other requirements of the program.
Language
Ukrainian citizens applying for this stream must take an approved English and/or French language test for reading, writing, listening, and speaking and earn a minimum score of 7 of the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) in all four areas. Note: Results are valid for 2 years after the date of the test results and must be valid on the day of application for permanent residence.
Education
Ukrainian citizens with credentials from countries other than Canada, must provide the following for the FSW stream of the Express Entry system:
- From a recognized institution, provide a diploma, degree, or trade apprenticeship certificate proving the completion of study/training
AND
2. From a designated organization, an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for immigration purposes to show the education is equal to a completed certificate, diploma, or degree from a Canadian secondary or post-secondary institution.
Note: If the applicant has completed studies at a Canadian secondary or post-secondary institution then a certificate, diploma, or degree must be provided.
Proof of Funds
To settle in Canada, when seeking to immigrate to Canada through certain programs in the Express Entry system, Ukrainian applicants must show that they have sufficient funds for not only themselves but also for any family joining them. (For individuals who are already legally working in Canada or have a valid job offer from a Canada-based employer, this requirement is waived).
Admissibility
Any foreign national applying to immigrate to Canada must be admissible to Canada. In other words, the national of Ukraine must be healthy and safe to immigrate. The most common reason applicants are found to be inadmissible to Canada is DUI (drunk-driving). Anyone with a criminal conviction must have been approved for criminal rehabilitation to be granted PR status in Canada.
Other reasons for which applicants may be denied admission to Canada may be:
- Security reasons (i.e., espionage, violence, terrorism, war crimes, previous convictions of crimes)
- Medical reasons (i.e., health conditions that are a risk to the public or cause excessive demand on health/social services)
- Misrepresentation (i.e., providing false information or withholding information related to government decisions)
- Having an inadmissible family member.
Note: Applicants from Ukraine who are seeking to immigrate to Canada through the CEC stream of the Express Entry process are not required to show they have enough money for themselves and their family if joining them because this requirement is waived for individuals who are currently able to legally work in Canada or have a valid job offer from a Canada-based employer.
Ukrainian citizens seeking to immigrate to Canada through the Federal Skilled Trades (FST) stream of the Express Entry online system, must demonstrate that for the trades work they seek to do in Canada:
- They have previously performed all the duties that are outlined in the lead statement of the NOC description of the skilled trade, including all essential duties and most of the main duties
- The prior skilled trade experience was gained in a paid role with the same NOC code as the job that the applicant is seeking to work in upon immigrating to Canada
- The skilled trade experience was gained after qualifying to independently practice the trade
- The skilled trade experience was gained within the last 5 years before applying
- The skilled trade experience was at least 2 years of full-time work (or an equal amount of part-time work experience)
Language
Ukrainian citizens applying through the FST stream, must take an approved English and/or French language test. The tests assess listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities according to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB).
- For listening and speaking a minimum level 5 is required
- For reading and writing a minimum of level 4 is required
The results are valid for 2 years after the date of the test results and must be valid on the day of application for permanent residence.
Education
There is no education requirement for the FST immigration stream, however if an applicant from Ukraine wants to improve their CRS ranking in the Express Entry pool, they can do so by having past education included in the points by doing either of the following:
- Points can be earned for a certificate, diploma, or degree from a Canadian secondary or post-secondary institution if the applicant has had prior education in Canada.
OR
- If the applicant has had prior education abroad, points can be earned by having an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) completed by a designated organization, showing that the education earned outside of Canada is equal to either a Canadian secondary or post-secondary institution.
Provincial/Territorial Trades Assessment
Ukrainian citizens applying to the FST immigration stream will need to have the province/territory where they wish to live assess their experience by the governing body that regulates that trade in the given province/territory. Below is the list of links to websites for each province’s/territory’s specific details about Certificates of Qualification for the trades, as well as outlines of how these certificates can be earned. Based on the outcome of this assessment the Canadian employer might later need to provide the applicant worker with specific experience or training to bridge the gap.
The Canadian Centre for International Credentials provides a comprehensive summary of who regulates the trades for cases where a trade is not found under a provincial/territorial body: https://www.cicic.ca/935/find_an_occupational_profile.canada?search=&cat=1&tp=7.
Proof of Funds
Ukrainian citizens applying to the FST to settle in Canada, must prove that they have sufficient funds for themselves (and any family member joining them).
More information about financial requirements for the FST process can be found at: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/documents/proof-funds.html
Admissibility
When applying for the FST stream, foreign nationals must be admissible to Canada, considered healthy and safe to immigrate. The most common reason foreign nationals are found to be inadmissible to Canada is DUI (drunk-driving). If applicants have a criminal conviction, he/she must have been approved for criminal rehabilitation to be granted PR in Canada.
Other reasons for which Ukrainian citizens may be denied admission to Canada could be:
- Security reasons (i.e., espionage, violence, terrorism, war crimes, previous convictions of crimes)
- Medical reasons (i.e., health conditions that are a risk to the public or cause excessive demand on health/social services)
- Misrepresentation (i.e., providing false information or withholding information related to government decisions)
- Having a family member who is inadmissible
For applicants from Ukraine who have worked in Canada, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) stream of the Express Entry process evaluates skilled work performed while employed in Canada. Other areas that the CRS assigns points for are: English/French language abilities, education, admissibility, and other factors (including age, existence of a job offer, and adaptability). The Government of Canada then extends ITAs to the top-ranking applicants in the pool.
Skilled Work Experience
Ukrainian citizens wishing to apply for permanent residency in Canada through the CEC stream must provide proof that they have done skilled work in Canada in at least one of the following roles, as outlined by the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system:
- Managerial job (Skill Type “0”) – in areas such as factories, offices, or resorts.
- Professional job (Skill Level “A”) – such as architects, accountants, lawyers, teachers, medical workers.
- Technical job and skilled trades (Skill Level “B”) – such as chefs, plumbers, electricians.
Applicants must show that, while legally working in their occupation in Canada, they performed the duties outlined in the lead statement of the NOC description for which they are applying to work in Canada, including all essential duties and most of the main duties.
Note: This experience must have been completed in the last 3 years before applying and total 1 year full-time (or equal amount in part-time)!
Note: The CEC stream does not accept Canadian work experience that the Ukrainian national gained while studying, through self-employment or during a co-op term towards the minimum experience requirements
Language
Applicants from Ukraine must complete an approved English and/or French language test to determine whether they meet the minimum communication requirements for the profession or trade intended to work in upon immigrating to Canada, by evaluating Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels for reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
The Level 7 (in all 4 areas of testing) is the minimum requirement for NOC 0 or A jobs and Level 5 (in all 4 areas) for NOC B jobs. Test results are valid for 2 years after the date of the test results and must be valid on the day of application for permanent residence.
Education
For the CEC stream there is no education requirement. However, any applicant from Ukraine who wishes to improve their ranking in the Express Entry pool can have additional CRS points assigned to their past education. This can be done in one of two ways:
- If the Ukrainian national’s past education was obtained in Canada, points can be earned for completion of a certificate, diploma, or degree at a Canadian secondary or post-secondary institution.
OR
- If the Ukrainian citizen’s last education was obtained abroad, points can be earned by having an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) completed by a designated organization, to show that the education is equal to completion at either a Canadian secondary or post-secondary institution.
Note: Nationals of Ukrainian, applying to immigrate to Canada through the CEC stream of the Express Entry process, are not required to prove sufficient funds for themselves and any family joining them to settle in Canada as this requirement is waived for individuals who can legally work in Canada or have a valid job offer from a Canada-based employer at the time of applying.
Allowing provinces and territories to select their own immigration candidates based on their own economic needs, the Federal Government allocates an immigration quota to each province and territory. The Provincial Nominee Program gives applicants an opportunity to apply through the province rather than through a federal program (such as the FSW, FST or CEC).
There are 12 provinces/territories offering their own, independent, immigration programs and streams. The criteria and eligibility requirements vary for each, depending on their economic needs and the industries in which they need to fill shortages. Each province/territory offers anywhere from 3-8 immigration streams.
While there are over 50 PNP streams, they can be broken down into the following categories.
International Student Streams – This category of streams allows nationals from Ukraine, who have recently graduated from a Canadian college/university, to apply to permanently reside in the province. Please note that most International Student Streams candidates require a job offer post-graduation.
Express Entry Streams – This category of streams is for applicants from Ukraine who have already created an Express Entry Profile. The applicant must approach the province or territory where they wish to immigrate to, expressing their interest. If the province or territory approves the application, the application will be allocated an additional 600 CRS points, improving the overall ranking significantly. Based on the score compared to other applicants, the province or territory then sends the top-scoring applicants an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR status, nominating them to be a “Candidate” of their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Semi-Skilled Streams – This category of streams allows for the province or territory to bring foreign nationals to Canada who are semi-skilled in occupations that fall under NOC Levels C and D. While Level C jobs usually require completion of high school and job-specific training (i.e., industrial butchers, long-haul truck drivers, and food/beverage servers), Level D jobs usually provide on-the-job training (i.e., fruit pickers, cleaning staff, oil field workers). This helps the province fill shortages in semi-skilled occupations.
Entrepreneur/Business Streams – This category of streams is for entrepreneurs or investors from Ukraine looking to create a new business or invest into one of Canada’s provincial or territorial businesses. The eligibility criteria require:
- A minimum net worth
- A minimum investment
- Creation of a minimum amount of full-time Canadian jobs
The amounts for each criterion vary according to the province or territory being applied to.
After the Ukrainian citizen has been nominated by the province or territory, they become “Candidates” and can apply for permanent residency with IRCC. This application must be submitted online or by paper depending on the immigration stream.
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) falls under the Express Entry stream. Once the Ukrainian applicant has created a Profile in the Express Entry online system, he/she needs to contact the province of Ontario to express interest in immigrating. The Government of Ontario will assess the application based on the skills, education, and work experience of the applicant to determine how they could contribute to the province. If it is determined that this applicant from Ukraine meets all the criteria and that immigration to Ontario would be beneficial to the province, an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency will be sent, nominating him/her as a nominee of the OINP. To apply for the OINP the applicant must submit an online copy.
Websites, with instructions on how to apply for provincial or territorial programs (PNPs) can be found here:
- Ontario (OINP)
Note: For each province/territory to reach their specific immigration targets (i.e., students, skilled workers, business investors, etc.), each has their own streams and, accordingly, their own requirements.
Candidates from Ukraine, who are sent an ITA for the OINP must apply for Permanent Resident status online. However, other provinces/territories may require paper copies.
Paper Based Process
If a paper based copy permanent residence application is required by the province or territory nominating the Ukrainian citizen, then the application goes via a non-Express Entry stream.
The application process for permanent residence, for provinces or territories requiring paper based applications, is as follows:
- Complete and submit the paper application package for permanent residence (which included an Instruction Guide and all necessary government forms), available here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides/application-package-provincial-nominees.html
- Complete and submit the Medical Exam, available here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/medical-police/medical-exams.html
- Complete and submit a Police Character/Clearance Certificate, available here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/medical-police/police-certificates/how/ukraine.html
- Pay application fees (including processing fees for oneself and any relative coming with the applicant, Right of Permanent Residence fee, biometric fees, and applicable third-party fees)* at https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/fees/pay.asp
- Submit the application with Proof of Payment for all required fees to the location indicated in the Instruction Guide.
Once the fees are paid and the application is submitted, the applicant will receive a letter (Letter of Instruction) confirming the need for biometric data to be provided and directives on where to go. This letter must be presented when going to the Biometrics appointment. Locations where Biometric data can be provided is listed at the following site: https://www.cic.gc.ca/englis/information/where-to-give-Biometrics.asp
* Additional 3rd party fees that applicants may need to pay include educational credential assessments or language testing. The instruction guide will outline what fees apply to the applicant, based on their specific circumstances.
Online Process
If the Ukrainian citizen is interested in applying for permanent residency by obtaining a nomination from a province or territory that offers the PNP via the Express Entry process, he/she has two options for applying:
- The Ukrainian citizen can contact the province/territory and then apply for a nomination through the Express Entry stream. If the province/territory provides a nomination, an Express Entry online profile needs to be created (or existing profiles updated) to show a nomination has been made.
OR
- The Ukrainian citizen creates an Express Entry profile as part of the application for permanent residency and shows provinces/territories he/she is seeking to reside there and that a nomination is sought. When a province/territory sends a “Notification of Interest” the applicant can contact that province/territory and applies to the Express Entry stream to await a nomination to the account.
Note: For either process, applicants must pass a Medical Exam and provide a Police Character/Clearance Certificate, which both need to be submitted as part of the application.
Things to Keep in Mind!
! Québec does not have a PNP. Information about their immigration streams can be found at: http://www.immigration-Québec.gouv.qc.ca/en/
! Paper-based, non-Express Entry applications have longer processing times than Express Entry online applications.
! Whichever process Ukrainian nationals apply through, they must meet the eligibility requirement(s) of the province/territory that they are applying to reside in.
! Regardless of which process Ukrainian nationals apply through, if they receive an ITA they must submit an electronic application for permanent residency.
! All foreign nationals must be admissible to Canada. In other words, applicants from Ukraine must be considered healthy and safe to immigrate.
! Not being truthful on an application, by withholding pertinent information or answering dishonestly is called “misrepresentation” and can result in not only a refusal of the application and but also possibly barring him/her from applying for resident status (inadmissible) for up to 5 years.
Sponsor Your Spouse, Common-law Partner, Conjugal Partner, or Other Relative from Ukraine
Family reunification is the primary goal of the Family Class and In-Canada Class immigration programs. Canadian citizens, permanent residents in Canada or a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act can sponsor a relative to come to Canada to become permanent residents (PRs).
Under the Family Class or In-Canada Class, the following relatives can be sponsored:
- A Ukrainian citizen Spouse – and their Dependent children
- A Ukrainian citizen Common-Law OR a Conjugal Partner – and their Dependents
- Ukrainian citizen Dependent Child(ren) – and their Dependents
Should I Sponsor Using The Family Class (Overseas) or In-Canada Class?
NOTE: Ukrainian relatives such as parents/grandparents, an adopted child, an orphaned sibling/niece/nephew/grandchild or sponsorship of a distant relative, can be sponsored through their own immigration programs.
Requirements For Sponsor
When sponsoring a Ukrainian national under the Family Sponsorship class, the person wishing to sponsor must meet the following criteria:
- 18+ years of age
- Permanent resident in Canada or Canadian citizen in Canada or Canadian citizen living outside Canada and intending to return to Canada
- Not incarcerated, not bankrupt or not under a removal order
- Not receiving social assistance (unless receiving for disability)
- Able to provide for basic needs of the person(s) being sponsored
- Were themselves not sponsored to Canada as a spouse in the last 5 years
NOTE: A sponsor must meet IRCC’s income guidelines and will be bound by law to financially support the sponsored Ukrainian spouse (and their dependents, if applicable) as of the date the foreign national becomes a permanent resident for up to 20 years, depending on their age and how they’re related to the sponsor.
Requirements of the Ukrainian Person Being Sponsored
To qualify for sponsorship under the Family Class, the British national being sponsored must prove that eligibility requirements have been met, the individual(s) being sponsored must provide proof through completion and submission of all relevant forms, documents and additional information such as medical exams and biometrics.
Based on the kind of family application, further guidelines are outlined below.
To qualify for sponsorship and applying for permanent residence as a spouse the Ukrainian national must meet the following conditions:
- 18+ years of age
- Legally married to the sponsor
To qualify for sponsorship and applying for permanent residence, as a common-law partner (regardless of gender) the Ukrainian national must meet the following conditions:
- 18+ years of age
- Not legally married to the sponsor
- Living with sponsor for at least 12 consecutive months (any time apart should have been temporary and a short time)
- Provide proof of common-law relationship
To qualify for sponsorship and applying for permanent residence, as a conjugal partner (regardless of gender) the Ukrainian national must meet the following conditions:
- 18+ years of age
- Not legally married to the sponsor, nor in a common-law relationship
- Has been in a relationship with sponsor for at least 1 year
- Lives outside of Canada
- Cannot live with sponsor in their country of residence or marry the sponsor due to significant legal and immigration reasons (i.e. marital status, sexual orientation or persecution)
- Provide proof that s/he could not live together such as refusals of long-term stays in each other’s country.
To qualify for sponsorship and applying for permanent residence, a Ukrainian dependent child must meet the following conditions:
- Under 22 years of age and
- Do not have a spouse or common-law partner
- The other parent must agree to the child immigrating to Canada
The dependent child may be either the sponsor’s own child(ren) or the child(ren) of the Ukrainian spouse/partner being sponsored. If this child has a child or children of their own (the sponsor’s grandchild(ren)), they are also eligible to be included in the sponsorship so long as the other parent/legal guardian agrees to the immigration to Canada.
NOTE: Children over 22 years of age may qualify as dependents if they meet both of the following requirements: unable to financially support themselves due to a mental or physical condition and have depended on their parents for financial support since before the age of 22. Except for the age, these conditions must be met until the application has been approved.
For permanent residence (PR) status there are two options for sponsorship:
Which path to pursue depends on your family situation and how you are prepared to spend the next year of processing time. Find out more about how to choose between In-Canada and Overseas sponsorship here.
NOTE: For both paths there is a two-step process, requiring that the Sponsor first apply to sponsor a relative, followed by the Family Member applying for permanent residence. You must submit the Sponsorship application together with the application for Permanent Residency.
1) In- Canada (Inland) Sponsorship
Applications for sponsorship can be submitted if the Ukrainian national being sponsored is already in Canada (as visitors, students or workers), with valid Temporary Resident status as a visitor, a student or a worker. This process is called In-Canada Sponsorship.
The process consists of the following:
- Obtain and complete the sponsorship application package, including all forms (for sponsor and Ukrainian national being sponsored) and required documents. If you have lived, studied and/or worked outside of the United Kingdom, you may need to obtain documents/records from the other countries to fulfill the requirements of the application. Examples of such records/documents are:
- passport(s)
- birth certificate(s)
- marriage/divorce certificate(s)
- national identification card(s)
- military service document(s)
- other civil document(s)
- etc.
- Pay application fees, including processing fees for the Sponsor and all persons being sponsored, the Right of Permanent Residence fee, Biometrics fee and any applicable Third-Party fees (i.e. Medical Exam & Police Certificate).
- Submit the application to Case Processing Centre Mississauga.
- Send any further documentation to IRCC if they request it.
- Attend an interview, if necessary, with IRCC as part of the assessment for eligibility for PR status. The Ukrainan national will be notified thereof in writing and will need to bring with them all supporting documents for the application. Keep in mind that interviews are extremely rare under the In-Canada class, however IRCC is still allowed to convoke them.
The In-Canada sponsorship application path will allow the Ukrainian national to work or study in Canada while the sponsorship application is being processed, mitigating financial and social strains. However, if the sponsorship application is refused the British national must leave Canada when their work permit expires.
Open Work Permit for In-Canada Sponsorship Applicants
NOTE: If the person being sponsored leaves Canada at any given point while the application is being processed, there is no guarantee that s/he will be allowed to re-enter Canada.
2) Family Class (Overseas/Outland) Sponsorship
Many family sponsorship applications are done for Ukrainian nationals residing outside of Canada. The Ukrainian national being sponsored can travel in and out of Canada while the sponsorship application is being processed under the Family Class. While entry to Canada always remains at the discretion of the CBSA officer for any foreign national, Ukrainian citizens with a valid visitor visa can enter Canada to see their spouse or partner.
The Family Class sponsorship applications must be submitted to the visa office where the person being sponsored is originally from (Ukraine) or where s/he has resided legally for at least one year if they live outside Ukraine.
- Obtain and complete the sponsorship application package, including all forms (for sponsor and British national being sponsored) and required documents. If you have lived, studied and/or worked outside of the Ukraine, you may need to obtain documents/records from those other countries to fulfill the requirements of the application. Examples of such records/documents are:
- passport(s)
- birth certificate(s)
- marriage/divorce certificate(s)
- national identification card(s)
- military service document(s)
- other civil document(s)
- For any marriage that took place in Ukraine, please provide a copy of the church wedding certificate in addition to the marriage certificate.
- Pay application fees, including processing fees for the Sponsor and all persons being sponsored, the Right of Permanent Residence fee, Biometrics fee and any applicable Third-Party fees (i.e. Medical Exam & Police Certificate).
- Submit the application to Case Processing Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia.
- Send any further documentation to the IRCC upon request. This may include further documentation/records to complete the application, biometric information (fingerprints and photos) and completion of a medical exam.
- The Ukraine national being sponsored may be called to attend an interview with IRCC as part of the assessment for eligibility for PR status. After IRCC has received the sponsorship/PR applications, the British national will be notified in writing that s/he needs to attend and must bring with them all supporting records and documents for the application just prior to a final decision being made.
Biometrics
Ukrainian nationals must provide biometric information in the form of fingerprints and a photo as part of the application process for permanent residency,
NOTE: While the fee for biometrics must be paid before sending the application (receipt to be included in the application package), the submission of the biometric information itself must be completed once IRCC has received the combined sponsorship/PR applications and then provides the British national with an Instruction Letter.
Medical Exam(s)
The Ukraine national(s) being sponsored to come to Canada and seeking PR status, must complete a medical exam as part of the application process. IRCC, upon reviewing the application, will advise applicants when it is time to go get the exam done.
All medical exams must be done by an approved panel physician. Panel physicians are located around the world in nearly every country. Immigration medical exams can be done by any approved panel physician regardless of location.
Police Certificate(s)
As part of the application and requirement for admissibility to Canada, Ukrainian national(s) being sponsored to come to Canada and seeking PR status, must provide a police certificate from the United Kingdom, showing they do not have a criminal record.
To learn how to obtain a police certificate from Ukraine you can go to:
NOTE: If you have resided, studied and/or worked in a country other than the Ukraine you may have to provide police certificates from those other countries. Consult the Instruction Guide for details.
3) Other Relative Sponsorship Programs
IRCC has created special sponsorship programs for:
- Parent(s)/grandparent(s)
- Adopted child(ren)
- Orphaned sibling(s)/niece(s)/nephew(s)/grandchild(ren)
- Other Relatives
To learn more about the adopted child(ren) Sponsorship options you can go to:
To learn more about sponsoring other relatives such as an orphaned sibling/ niece/nephew/grandchild you can go to:
Other Ukrainian relatives (such as an aunt, uncle or cousin) and that person’s dependents might be eligible for sponsorship if a permanent resident or Canadian citizen
- does not have a living relative who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident or registered Indian under the Indian Act
and
- does not have someone to sponsor as a spouse/common-law/ conjugal partner/dependent child, from the list above.
To learn more about sponsoring other relatives, you can go to:
Helpful Hints
! For spousal and common-law sponsorships, IRCC is committed to processing applications as quickly as possible to allow family reunification within 12 months. (Other applications vary depending on the country of origin of the person being sponsored). This processing time does not include delays caused by covid-19.
! Misrepresentation by not being truthful on an application may result in a refusal of the application, making the applicant inadmissible and possibly barring him/her from applying for resident status for up to 5 years.
Why You Should Never Lie to Canadian Immigration Authorities
