Canada is not ready to grant permanent residence to all Ukrainians: details

The Canadian government does not plan to issue permanent residence permits to Ukrainians on a massive scale, but it is also not going to return them to their homeland while the war is on. Find out how the government offers refugees to legalise their stay in the country
Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine, Canada has already welcomed nearly 300,000 Ukrainian citizens who fled the war. They arrived under a special programme called CUAET (Canada-Ukraine Authorisation for Emergency Travel), which entitles them to an urgent three-year work and residence permit, as well as financial assistance and temporary free accommodation. However, according to Immigration Minister Mark Miller, Ottawa is not ready to automatically grant permanent resident status to all of these people.
Canada is not ready to grant permanent residence to everyone
During a press conference in Ottawa, according to Ukrinform, the minister stressed that among Ukrainians who came to Canada after the invasion, many would like to stay in the country. However, mass granting of permanent residence is not part of the government's plans:
‘Many Ukrainians want to stay. Given the ongoing war in Ukraine, there are some geostrategic concerns, but I am not ready to grant full permanent residence to all 300,000 Ukrainians,’ said Miller.
According to him, such a step could ‘send a defeatist message about the war in Ukraine’, i.e. demonstrate that Canada accepts the long-term impossibility of people returning to their homeland.
Opportunities for those who stay
Miller noted that the government is showing humanity: many Ukrainians, already living in Canada, find work, marry Canadians, and have children. In such cases, it is possible to use standard immigration mechanisms - to apply for permanent resident status on a general basis. In addition, the Canadian side has no plans to forcibly return people to the conflict zone:
‘As long as the war is on, I will not send Ukrainians back. We continue to issue residence and work permits, so there is nothing to be afraid of,’ the minister assured.
Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!
Concerns about the end of CUAET
The CUAET programme was designed for three years, and many Ukrainians who arrived in 2022 will be forced to look for ways to legalise themselves after their permits expire in the near future. There have been no official announcements about what will happen to the programme in 2023: it is not yet known whether it will be continued in its current format or replaced by another scheme.
To date, more than 298,000 Ukrainians have found refuge in Canada, fleeing the war. For many of them, Canada has become a new home, and the question of whether they will be able to continue to stay in the country legally is of fundamental importance. However, Minister Miller's position is unequivocal: a comprehensive amnesty or automatic permanent residence should not be expected, although Ottawa continues to support Ukrainians by not forcing them to return to a place where the war is still ongoing.
Need advice from a qualified migration specialist? Visit Ukraine experts will help you deal with the most complex legal nuances! Our experts provide professional advice to Ukrainians on relocation, visas, paperwork, employment and other issues. Contact Visit Ukraine professionals.
We remind you! Canada has launched a large-scale information campaign against immigrants, investing heavily in curbing migration flows.
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;
Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;
Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;
Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.
All rights reserved.
Frequantly
asked questions
What does Canada provide for refugees from Ukraine?
When does the programme for Ukrainians in Canada end?
How can I move to Canada from Ukraine now?
Recommended articles
3 min
For refugees
Canada: rules of entry and residence in 2024. What Ukrainians need to know? (updated)
Ukrainians wishing to go to Canada in 2024 should familiarise themselves with the new immigration rules, as the government of this country has made adjustments in this matter. Find out how to get to Canada, what documents are needed and whether there are now programmes for Ukrainian citizens
09 Nov. 2024
More details1 min
For refugees
Ukrainians in Canada will be able to renew work permits: new terms and conditions
Ukrainians in Canada can now apply for new work or study permits without leaving the country. Find out what new opportunities are open to Ukrainians under the new rules of the Canadian government
16 Aug. 2024
More details3 min
For refugees
Canada in 2024 remains one of the most popular countries for emigration among Ukrainians. Thanks to its high standard of living and stable economy, the country offers many opportunities for those who want to start a new life abroad. Find out what you need to emigrate to Canada, what is the visa process, relocation opportunities, and how to legalize your stay in the country after arrival
06 Oct. 2024
More details2 min
For refugees
Family reunification program in Canada no longer works for Ukrainians: details
The Family Reunification Program for Ukrainians in Canada, created to support Ukrainian citizens who have lost the opportunity to be close to their families due to the war, has officially ended. Learn more about how the Canadian government continues to support Ukrainians in the country and other refugee programs
05 Nov. 2024
More details