Canada Extends Immigration Support for Ukrainians – 2025 Update
- Harris Amir, RCIC
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
As of February 29, 2025, the Canadian government has officially extended key immigration measures for Ukrainians and their families who arrived under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program. These changes are part of Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting those affected by the war in Ukraine, and they provide important new opportunities to stay, work, and study legally in Canada.
At Harris Amir Canada Immigration Consulting, we’ve worked closely with many Ukrainian clients over the last few years. These updates offer hope and stability — but they also come with strict deadlines and detailed requirements. We’re here to help you understand exactly what to do next.
What Is CUAET?
CUAET was introduced in March 2022 as a temporary response to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. It allowed Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members to come to Canada as temporary residents with access to open work permits, study permits, and settlement supports.
Although new applications to the program closed in July 2023, many Ukrainians already in Canada continue to rely on this program to stay safe and legally protected.
What Changed in 2025?
The latest IRCC announcement confirms that Ukrainians who arrived in Canada on or before March 31, 2024, now have more time to apply for or renew their work and study permits.
You have until March 31, 2026 to:
Apply for a new open work permit
Renew your current work permit
Apply for a study permit
This extension gives many people the time they need to continue building their lives here. However, standard application fees still apply, and it’s essential to submit your application before your current permit or status expires. If you apply in time, you’ll benefit from maintained status, meaning you can continue working or studying while your application is being processed.
Settlement Services Remain Available
Another key extension is the continuation of free settlement services for all Ukrainian temporary residents and their family members until March 31, 2025. This includes access to job search help, language training, housing support, and more.
These programs can be incredibly helpful if you’re still getting established or need help navigating life in Canada.
Can I Apply If My Passport Is Expired?
Yes. If your Ukrainian passport has expired and you’re facing delays renewing it due to the war, you may still be eligible to apply for a permit extension or new work/study permit. The Canadian government has made exceptions in recognition of this issue. Applications will be assessed individually, so we strongly recommend working with an immigration consultant or lawyer to make sure everything is handled correctly.
What About Permanent Residency?
While CUAET is a temporary program, there are multiple permanent residency pathways that may be available to you, including:
Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry) — if you’ve worked in Canada for at least 12 months in a skilled job
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) — if a province identifies your occupation as in demand
Family sponsorship — if you have a Canadian spouse or common-law partner
Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds — for those who would face hardship returning to Ukraine
Each option has specific eligibility rules. We’ll help you determine which route fits your personal situation.
Talk to an Immigration Consultant Today
If you came to Canada under CUAET and want to stay, work, or apply for permanent residency, now is the time to act. These deadlines are strict, and your ability to remain in Canada depends on applying correctly and on time.
At Harris Amir Canada Immigration Consulting, we specialize in helping Ukrainian clients extend their legal stay and plan for a secure future in Canada. We provide full support for permit renewals, status extensions, PR applications, and more.
📞 Ready to talk? Call us today at +1 (647) 799-9479 and get the legal clarity and confidence you deserve.