Canada extends work permits for Ukrainians, i.e., the Government of Canada has introduced new support measures for Ukrainian nationals living in the country. These measures apply to those who came to Canada under the CUAET, u.e., Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel and related programs.

Under the new announcement, eligible Ukrainian nationals who already hold open work permits can now apply to extend them. They have until March 31, 2027, to submit their applications.

The earlier measures that allowed such extensions ended on March 31, 2026. The new policy ensures that affected individuals can continue working and supporting themselves in Canada.

Who Is Eligible For The New Measures?

Two groups of Ukrainian nationals and their family members can apply under these new rules:

  • Group 1: Those who arrived in Canada on or before March 31, 2024.
  • Group 2: Those who arrived in Canada between April 1, 2024 and December 31, 2024.

To qualify, individuals must be living in Canada and should have a valid temporary resident status when they apply. They must also still have a valid status when a final decision is made on their application.

It is important to note that only one extension is allowed under this policy. The new work permit can be issued for up to three years.

Public Policies That Apply To Each Group

The public policies that apply are different for each group.

Group One: Temporary public policy for foreign nationals who applied under the Canada–Ukraine authorization for emergency travel measures and whose applications were pending as of February 4, 2024 (the initial policy and its extension).

Group Two:

  • Temporary public policy to exempt Ukrainian nationals from various immigration requirements in support of the Canada–Ukraine authorization of emergency travel
  • Temporary public policy to renew the Canada–Ukraine Authorization of Emergency Travel from April 1, 2023
  • Temporary public policy for foreign nationals who applied under the Canada–Ukraine authorization for emergency travel measures and for new temporary resident applicants
  • Temporary public policy to facilitate continued access to open work permits and study permits for foreign nationals in Canada who arrived under the Canada–Ukraine authorization for emergency travel measures (the initial policy and its extension).

To apply, individuals must follow the instructions provided on Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) official website after confirming which group they belong to.

At the time of writing, these measures are expected to be introduced through a temporary public policy, which has not yet been officially published.

About The CUAET Program

The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) was launched on March 17, 2022. It was created to support Ukrainians and their family members who were displaced due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Since its launch, around 300,000 Ukrainians and their family members have arrived in Canada through this program.

On January 16, 2026, Canada also introduced another public policy. This policy helps certain Ukrainians and their family members who have applied for permanent residence. It allows them to access work permits and study permits while their applications are being processed.

Canada’s Ongoing Humanitarian Support

Canada continues to introduce temporary immigration measures to support people affected by global crises. These policies are often created to respond to urgent humanitarian situations.

In addition to Ukraine, similar support measures have been introduced for people affected by conflicts in regions such as Iran, Sudan, Gaza, and Haiti.

These steps show Canada’s effort to provide safety and support to people during difficult times. The extension of work permits for Ukrainians helps them stay stable, continue working, and build their lives while they remain in Canada.

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