Entering Canada from Ukraine for Refuge
Ukraine Nationals (Citizens and Permanent Residents)
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has created new immigration streams for Ukrainians who want to come to Canada, either temporarily or permanently. The Canadian-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel pathway eliminates the many normal Visa requirements, providing an expedited route to Canada after performing background checks and security screenings. This pathway will be available within the next two weeks. In the meantime Ukrainian nationals are encouraged to apply through all available channels, including for work permits, as their applications will be prioritized.
In addition to the upcoming refugee channels, the IRCC has opened a Ukraine immigration enquiries channel; available in Canada and abroad at 613-321-4243. Online enquiries can be found on the Government of Canada’s crisis web form; adding Ukraine2022to prioritize the enquiry.
Persons Living in Ukraine (non-Citizen or Permanent Residents)
For those who are not Ukrainian citizens or have Permanent Resident status, the Canadian-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel path will not be an available avenue to enter Canada. Applications in all other channels of immigration will still be given priority to temporary residents of Ukraine that are in the process of fleeing.
Sponsoring Immediate Ukraine Family Members
Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents wanting to sponsor their immediate family from Ukraine can do so normally; applications will be reviewed to determine if they need to be prioritized. The prioritization of applications applies only to Ukraine Nationals outside Canada, and either:
Spouse or common-law or conjugal partner; or
Your dependent child (including adopted children)
If you or a loved one are affected by the situation in Ukraine, please feel free to reach out. We will gladly assess your situation to determine any and all available options.
