Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended the application deadline for Ukrainians in Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program to apply for open work permits. Eligible individuals now have until March 31, 2025, to submit their applications.
Under this extension, CUAET participants who arrived in Canada on or before March 31, 2024, as temporary residents can apply for open work permits valid for up to three years. The length of the permit will depend on the applicant’s passport validity and biometrics. However, unlike earlier phases of the program, this round of applications will no longer be exempt from processing fees.
The CUAET program, which was launched in response to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, stopped accepting new applications as of July 15, 2023. Approved applicants had until March 31, 2024, to enter Canada and take full advantage of the program’s supports, including free work permits and settlement assistance.
Participants already in Canada can continue accessing a wide range of federally funded settlement services until March 31, 2025. These free services include employment support, language training, assistance with citizenship preparation, and tailored programming for groups such as women, seniors, and individuals from the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
In addition to temporary residence support, Maple News highlights that Ukrainians with family ties in Canada may also qualify for permanent residency through a specialized immigration pathway. Applications for this pathway are being accepted until October 22, 2024.
This extension reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to helping Ukrainians displaced by the war and underscores the government’s effort to support their transition into Canadian society.
Maple News will continue monitoring and reporting developments affecting Ukrainian nationals in Canada and their immigration opportunities.