March 18, 2022 – Canada announced a new temporary resident pathway for Ukrainians on Thursday (March 17th). Ukrainians fleeing from the Russian attacks will be able to stay for three years, an extension from the previously announced two years.
The “Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel” (CUAET) program launched on Thursday, and is a special, accelerated temporary resident pathway for Ukrainians seeking refuge in Canada.
For those companies extending their support and employment opportunities to Ukrainian workers:
A quick summary of what it involves for your Ukraine hires
- Applies to Ukrainian nationals and their family members* of any nationality (*Family members are defined as spouse/common law partner or children)
- They should apply for a 3-year visitor visa, and encouraged to apply for a 3-year open work permit at the same time
- Biometrics check is required
- Priority processing for standard cases is 14 days from the submission of a completed application
- Elementary and secondary school students can register for and start attending school as soon as they enter Canada
- All application fees are waived
- Exempt from COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements
- Must still meet other public health requirements for travel (eg. quarantine and testing)
- May be required to complete a medical exam within 90 days of arrival
Key steps for Ukrainian candidates to take
- Apply for visitor visa and work permit simultaneously
- Complete biometric background screening
- After their application is approved within 14 days, candidate sends their passport to have the visa stamped
- Once stamped, candidate comes to Canada and is issued an open work permit upon entry
How VanHack will assist with your Ukraine relocation hire to Canada
VanHack is committed in our support towards Ukrainians suffering from the Russian invasion, and will do all that we can to help them find new opportunities abroad.
- We are waiving all placement fees for Ukrainian developer hires, or employers can choose to donate part of the placement fee to a verified charity
- Our Immigration Consultants will represent candidates and guide them through the visa application process
- Our Relocation Coordinators will work with candidates to ensure they meet entry and travel requirements
- Advise them on obtaining the proper work authorizations
- Help them settle into Canada and provide resources on how to apply for a SIN, healthcare, phone numbers, bank accounts, etc.
Additional Resources from IRCC
- Immigration measures for people affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Applying for a visitor visa through the CUAET
- Giving biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC)
- Dedicated service channel for Ukraine immigration enquiries (both from Canada and abroad): 613-321-4243, collect calls accepted. Add the keyword “Ukraine2022” to the IRCC crisis web form with their enquiry and it will be prioritized.
Additional Resources from VanHack
- VanHack’s resources blog “How Can We Help Ukraine?”
- Ukrainian developers from VanHack looking for opportunities