Canada Eases Immigration Rules for Ukrainians in 2024
Canada Introduces New Temporary Measures to Help Ukrainians Extend Their Stay
Good news for Ukrainian nationals in Canada — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched a new temporary policy that makes it easier for Ukrainians and their families to maintain legal status while they wait for permanent residency decisions. This change is part of Canada’s ongoing commitment to support those affected by the war in Ukraine.
Key Highlights
- New IRCC measures allow Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members to extend temporary resident status.
- Applicants are exempt from certain inadmissibility and restoration requirements.
- Eligible individuals must be in Canada and apply before March 31, 2026.
- The temporary policy remains in effect until March 31, 2027.
- Applies to those who’ve applied for permanent residency under the family reunification pathway.
- Standard temporary residence application fees still apply.
What’s the New Policy All About?
In response to the ongoing crisis caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, IRCC is offering additional flexibility to Ukrainian nationals and their close family members in Canada. If you’ve applied for permanent residency through the Temporary Public Policy to Grant Permanent Residence to Certain Ukrainian Nationals with Family in Canada, this new measure may help you stay legally in Canada while your application is being processed.
These steps are designed to reduce the stress and uncertainty many Ukrainian families are facing, allowing them to remain in Canada without fear of losing their legal status.
Who Qualifies for These Measures?
To take advantage of these new rules, individuals must fall into one of two categories:
Scenario One:
- You are currently in Canada with valid temporary resident status (such as a visitor, student, or worker).
- OR you’ve applied to restore your status within the 90-day deadline after it expired.
Scenario Two:
- You had valid temporary resident status when you applied for permanent residence, but have since lost it.
- OR your status was valid within the 90 days prior to submitting your PR application.
- You must apply from within Canada by March 31, 2026.
Under this second scenario, there’s more good news — you’re exempt from being found inadmissible for things like working or studying without proper authorization, or even overstaying in Canada. You’re also not bound by the usual 90-day period for restoring status.
How Long Are These Measures in Effect?
These temporary rules are in place until March 31, 2027. If you fall under one of the qualifying scenarios, you can apply to extend your temporary resident status under these special provisions — but be sure to do so before the March 2026 deadline.
Keep in mind that regular fees for temporary residence applications still apply, even under this policy.
What If You Haven’t Received an Acknowledgement Yet?
Even if you haven’t received an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) for your permanent residency application, you can still apply under these new temporary measures. That means you don’t have to wait — as long as you meet the criteria, you’re good to go.
A Quick Look at the Public Policy for Ukrainian Nationals
This all ties back to the special immigration stream created by IRCC in October 2023. That policy was intended to help Ukrainian nationals reunite with family in Canada, and was open until October 2024. To qualify, applicants needed to be:
- Ukrainian nationals inside Canada
- Related to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (such as a spouse, common-law partner, or widow of a qualifying Ukrainian)
This pathway built upon the earlier Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET), which launched in March 2022 and offered emergency entry to Canada for those fleeing the war.
Why This Matters
For many Ukrainians, the conflict has meant more than just displacement — it’s resulted in uncertainty, separation from loved ones, and major life upheaval. Canada’s immigration system continues to adapt to these humanitarian needs, offering pathways that are both compassionate and practical.
These temporary changes ensure that families can stay together and avoid disruptions while they wait for their permanent residency applications to be processed.
Looking Ahead
While these temporary measures offer significant help, it’s important to stay on top of your immigration status. Make sure you apply on time, and if you’re unsure where you stand, consider speaking with an immigration professional.
If you’re exploring other immigration options in Canada, such as provincial nominee programs, you may want to check out the Manitoba PNP — a great option for those with family connections or work experience in the province.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s continued efforts to support Ukrainians are a strong reminder of our country’s commitment to humanitarian values. If you or someone you know might benefit from these new temporary measures, now’s a good time to review your immigration status and take action before the deadlines approach.
Need help figuring out your next steps? Whether you’re applying for PR or extending your temporary status, staying informed is key. Check out our guides or get in touch with our immigration experts for personalized support.
Stay safe, stay informed — and welcome to Canada.
