Canada simplifies family reunification scheme for Ukrainians: details

Canada is expanding opportunities for Ukrainian families already in the country by simplifying the rules for legal residence and access to work and study. New government decisions give more time to adapt and wait for immigration decisions after the closure of emergency programmes. Find out who can take advantage of the updated conditions, which statuses can be extended, and until what date Ukrainians will be able to legally live in Canada

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

GET

Canada continues to adapt its migration mechanisms to support Ukrainians affected by the war. For Ukrainian citizens who entered the country under the family reunification program, the procedure for extending their legal stay has been simplified. After submitting the relevant application, they will be able to legally live, work and study in Canada until March 31, 2027.

The decision was announced by the Government of Canada. The changes apply to Ukrainians who have applied under the family reunification mechanism, as well as their family members. The aim is to reduce the bureaucratic burden and give people more time to adapt while their application for permanent residence is being considered.

What exactly has been simplified

The updated rules allow Ukrainians who are eligible for the programme to apply for temporary status even without confirmation of receipt of their application for permanent residence. Until 31 March 2027, they will be able to apply for or renew a work permit, obtain a new study permit, and renew or restore their temporary resident status. In effect, this allows them to remain in the country legally, be economically active, and enjoy basic social opportunities.

It is important to note that new applications for family reunification from Ukrainians in Canada are not currently being accepted. This applies only to those who have already taken advantage of this mechanism in the past.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

What has changed since the end of CUAET

On 31 March 2024, Canada closed applications for the CUAET (Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel) programme. This emergency mechanism allowed Ukrainians to obtain a multiple-entry visa, an open work permit and stay in Canada for up to three years with priority consideration of applications. The programme became a key tool for legal entry, employment, education and access to social support.

After the closure of CUAET, other legal avenues for residence and immigration remain open to Ukrainians. Standard temporary resident visas (TRVs) continue to be available, with the possibility of further processing work or study permits. Economic and provincial immigration programmes are also available, including, for example, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Programme for professionals with in-demand skills or job offers. Separately, there is the International Experience Canada (IEC) programme for Ukrainians aged 18-25, which allows them to work temporarily in Canada.

Ukrainians who arrived in Canada under the CUAET programme continue to be under temporary protection. Its validity has been extended several times, and the current final date is 31 March 2026. New relaxations for participants in the family reunification programme effectively create an additional ‘bridge’ between temporary residence and the possible acquisition of permanent status.

For a successful move and to avoid any problems, it is worth contacting specialists. The lawyers at Visit Ukraine provide full support and advice on visa and migration issues to successfully resolve any issues.

Reminder! Canada remains one of the most popular countries for Ukrainian emigration in 2026. With a high standard of living and a stable economy, the country offers many opportunities for those who want to start a new life abroad. Find out what the entry rules are for Ukrainians travelling to Canada in 2026, whether Ukrainians need a visa to enter Canada, what options are available for relocation, and how to legalise your stay in the country after arrival.

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 travelling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – book tickets for buses, trains, and planes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service – professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch – purchase patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2026, 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.