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Pathways to Permanent Residency for Ukrainians on CUAET in Canada

Writer's picture: Ozan OnukOzan Onuk

The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) was launched as a special immigration program to help Ukrainians fleeing the war. It offers temporary refuge and work opportunities in Canada. However, many Ukrainians on CUAET visas are now seeking ways to transition from temporary status to permanent residency (PR). Canada offers several immigration pathways for Ukrainians to become permanent residents. In this article, we’ll explore the programs available to CUAET holders who wish to settle permanently in Canada.


1. Express Entry


Express Entry is one of the most popular and fastest immigration pathways for skilled workers looking to become permanent residents in Canada. Ukrainians who have gained work experience in Canada under CUAET may be eligible to apply through this program. Express Entry manages three main streams:

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): If you have skilled work experience outside of Canada, this stream may be suitable. It assesses your skills, language proficiency, education, and other factors to determine eligibility.

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC): If you have gained at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada under CUAET, this program offers an easier pathway to permanent residency. Your Canadian work experience gives you an advantage when applying through CEC.

  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): If you have experience in a skilled trade and have a job offer in Canada, this stream could be an option. It focuses on individuals in fields like construction, electrical work, and mechanics.

To apply for Express Entry, you need to meet specific language requirements, have your foreign credentials evaluated, and create a profile in the Express Entry system. Candidates with higher points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) receive invitations to apply for permanent residency.


2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)


Each province in Canada has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows provinces to select immigrants who meet their labor market needs. Many provinces have streams that prioritize workers with temporary status, such as CUAET holders. PNPs often target individuals with in-demand skills, work experience, and ties to the province, such as employment or family members.

CUAET holders can apply to PNPs in provinces where they are living or working. Some popular provinces with PNP streams that may be suitable for Ukrainians include:

  • Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

  • British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)

  • Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)

By obtaining a provincial nomination, you can increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR through the Express Entry system, as provincial nominees receive an additional 600 CRS points.


3. Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds (H&C)


For those who do not qualify for any of the regular immigration programs, applying for permanent residency on Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Grounds may be an option. This program allows individuals who face exceptional hardships to apply for PR based on humanitarian reasons.

Ukrainians under CUAET may be eligible to apply under H&C if they have established strong ties to Canada, such as long-term employment, family connections, or other compelling reasons that make returning to their home country an undue hardship.

Applications under H&C grounds are assessed on a case-by-case basis and take into consideration factors such as the applicant’s circumstances in Canada, the best interests of any children involved, and the potential impact on the applicant’s life if they were forced to return to Ukraine.


4. Family Sponsorship


CUAET holders who have close family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents may be eligible for family sponsorship. Canadian citizens and PRs can sponsor spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, and parents or grandparents.

Family sponsorship is a popular option for Ukrainians with strong family ties in Canada, as it allows them to become PRs and reunite with their loved ones permanently.


5. Refugee Program


For Ukrainians fleeing war and seeking protection, Canada’s Refugee Program offers a pathway to permanent residency. Refugee claims can be made either at the Canadian border or within the country, depending on your situation.

The Convention Refugee status is given to individuals who have a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Ukrainians facing imminent danger and unable to return home may qualify for refugee protection in Canada.

If your refugee claim is accepted, you will be granted protected person status, allowing you to apply for permanent residency. In some cases, those who are denied refugee status may have the option to appeal or apply on humanitarian grounds.


6. Permanent Residence for Extended Stay (New Pathways for CUAET Holders)


The Canadian government is working on creating new pathways to permanent residency for CUAET holders. These options may be tailored specifically for Ukrainians in Canada under temporary status to help them transition to permanent residency. Keep an eye on updates from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regarding these special programs.


Conclusion


CUAET holders have multiple immigration pathways to transition from temporary to permanent residency in Canada. Whether through Express Entry, PNPs, or special programs like H&C or Refugee Protection, Ukrainians can explore options based on their work experience, location, and family ties in Canada.

If you are a CUAET holder and need assistance navigating the PR application process, Onuk Immigration Consulting Inc. is here to provide expert guidance at every step. We can help you determine the best immigration pathway and ensure your application is submitted correctly and efficiently.



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