Immigration Updates and Options – Canada’s Response to the War in Ukraine
*Note: Information current to March 3rd, 2022.*
Over recent days, the Government of Canada has announced how they plan on helping people impacted by the war in Ukraine. Information about all the programs can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/ukraine-measures.html
Below are the key highlights:
There is a dedicated phone number available for people with questions about the situation: 613-321-4243. Questions can also be sent online to IRCC’s Webform, using the subject line “Ukraine2022”.
For Ukrainian citizens who are already in Canada with temporary status:
• Applications to renew work permits, study permits, or visitor status will be prioritized.
• People with valid visitor status can apply for a work permit, if they have a job offer.
For Ukrainian citizens outside Canada:
• Immigration applications made by Ukrainians are being prioritized.
• Family sponsorship applications for Ukrainian spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of Canadian citizens and permanent residents are being prioritized.
• Ukrainians with a visitor visa, temporary resident permit, or who have been approved for Permanent Residence, will be allowed to enter Canada even if they are not fully vaccinated or have a vaccine that is not approved in Canada.
The Government of Canada has also announced the following plans, but no information about how these programs will work is available yet:
• A special visitor visa for Ukrainians fleeing the war, which would allow them to stay in Canada for up to two years.
• A special family sponsorship program for Ukrainian family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
• A special program for Ukrainians coming to Canada, and those already in Canada, to apply for Open Work permits.
• No fees for some types of immigration and travel documents.
For more information, or if you have questions about immigration options related to the war in Ukraine, please contact our clinic at 416-441-1764 ext. 1