There is currently no limit on the number of individuals Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (“IRCC”) will accept under this program. In addition, individuals are not required to pay any government application fees when applying for these visas or permits. Fees for Biometrics will also be waived under the CUAET. IRCC is prioritizing the processing of these applications, with applications for temporary resident visas (“TRV”) taking approximately 14 days to process.

Ukrainian nationals can apply for a TRV through the CUAET using the IRCC Portal. Once approved, the individual is then eligible to travel to and enter Canada. Individuals will also have the option of applying for an open work permit when applying for a TRV on the IRCC Portal. An open work permit will allow the individual to work for any employer in Canada, subject to limited exceptions. Individuals who did not apply for an open work permit when applying for a TRV may apply for one at the port of entry or once they are in Canada. Individuals may also apply for a study permit under the CUAET if they plan to study while in Canada. Further information on which individuals will need a study permit in order to study in Canada can be found here.

Family members of Ukrainian nationals can also apply under the CUAET. For the purposes of the CUAET, a ‘family member’ includes a spouse or common-law partner, a dependent child of the Ukrainian national or of their spouse or common-law partner, and a dependent child of a dependent child. Like their Ukrainian family members, these groups can utilize the CUAET to apply for temporary status to remain in Canada as a visitor, worker, or student. Documentary evidence demonstrating the family relationship is required.

Both Ukrainian nationals and their family members will be exempt from the requirement to be fully vaccinated in order to enter Canada under the CUAET. However, they must follow all other COVID-19 public health measures, including the requirements to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival and to test on arrival and on day eight (8) if not considered fully vaccinated. All travellers will also be required to upload the mandatory information to the ArriveCan app prior to entry.

For further information from the Federal Government on the eligibility requirements and application process under the CUAET, please see here.

We will continue to update our clients with information as soon as it becomes available. If you have any questions on this or any questions relating to workplace law generally, please do not hesitate to contact a Mathews Dinsdale lawyer.