Canada extends Ukraine temporary visa program by 4 months. What to know – National
The federal government will extend the deadline for urgent visa applications for Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s war until July 15.
Immigration Minister Sean Fraser updated on Wednesday that the Canada-Ukraine Emergency Travel Authorization Program (CUAET), which expedites visas and temporary stay permits for Ukrainians and their families, will expire on March 31. was announced.
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Canada’s Ukraine visa program is due to expire this month. Will Ottawa extend it?
Under this plan – one of 2 special programs Announced last March – Ukrainians can stay in the country Up to 3 years.
“We remain committed to helping those fleeing Russia’s illegal and unjust invasion of Ukraine. We continue to work to provide the critical settlement services and support they need to thrive,” Fraser said.
“Canada will continue to stand by the people of Ukraine, including those forced to flee Russia’s senseless aggression.”
This temporary program allows Ukrainians and their families to apply for free visitor visas and open work permits to study in Canada during their stay. Beginning July 15, Ukrainians wishing to come to Canada from abroad can apply for a visa or work or study permit through the existing Temporary Resident Programme, subject to fees and standard requirements. said the government.
Canada also offers a special family reunification sponsorship program for permanent residents. This will allow a wider range of families to settle in Canada than would have been permitted under conventional tensions.
After January 2022, 190,970 Ukrainians arrived In Canada, includes CUAET applicants and returning Canadian permanent residents. At least 616,429 applications were approved out of 943,730 applications through the CUAET program.
As the war in Ukraine enters its second year and shows no signs of ending, pressure is mounting on the federal government to extend the existing CUAET.
Earlier this month, Conservative MPs, including shadow immigration minister Tom Kieck, wrote to Fraser asking him to announce the extension “without delay” and reminding him that the war is far from over.
Responding to a question last week about the emergency visa program for Ukrainians, Fraser said he expects to share more news ahead of the March 31 deadline.
“When you see kids the same age as your own kids in school and above all, safe in our community, you do the same thing 100 times out of 100,” Fraser said. rice field.
— Using files from Sean Boynton for Global News
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