In brief: The CUAET program closed to new applicants in July 2023, but over 200,000 Ukrainians who arrived under it are now building permanent lives in Canada. In 2026, the main pathways to permanent residence include Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and the Canadian Experience Class. This guide walks you through every option, requirement and practical step to make Canada your permanent home.
CUAET Program: Overview and 2026 Status
In the weeks following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Canadian government created an unprecedented emergency immigration measure. The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program was launched on March 17, 2022, offering Ukrainians and their family members a fast-tracked pathway to safety in Canada.
The CUAET program was remarkable in its scope and generosity. Unlike traditional immigration programs with strict eligibility criteria, CUAET was open to all Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members regardless of age, education or work experience. The program provided:
- Temporary residence status for up to three years
- Open work permits allowing holders to work for any employer in any occupation across Canada
- Fee waivers for visa processing, work permits and biometrics
- Expedited processing with applications typically reviewed within weeks rather than months
- No requirement for a job offer, proof of funds or language test to apply
The response was overwhelming. By the time CUAET stopped accepting new applications on July 15, 2023, Canada had received over 1.2 million applications and approved travel documents for hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians. More than 200,000 Ukrainians actually arrived in Canada under the program, making it one of the largest humanitarian immigration initiatives in Canadian history.
In 2026, the CUAET program is no longer accepting new applications. However, its legacy continues to shape the Ukrainian-Canadian landscape profoundly. Many CUAET holders have already transitioned to permanent residence, while others are in the process of doing so. Those who arrived in 2022 and 2023 have now accumulated years of Canadian work experience, improved their language skills and built the foundations for permanent lives in communities from Toronto to Calgary, from Winnipeg to Vancouver.
Transitioning from CUAET to Permanent Residence
For the thousands of Ukrainians who came to Canada under CUAET, the most pressing question in 2026 is how to secure permanent resident status before their temporary permits expire. The good news is that Canadian work experience gained on a CUAET open work permit is fully recognized by immigration authorities and counts toward permanent residence applications.
CUAET holders have a significant advantage over applicants from outside Canada. Their time working, paying taxes, learning English or French and integrating into Canadian society has given them exactly what immigration programs value most: proven ability to contribute to the Canadian economy and community.
The most common transition pathways for CUAET holders include:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) through Express Entry, for those with at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), for those working in provinces with active nomination streams
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), for those with strong language scores and education
- Family sponsorship, for those with Canadian citizen or PR family members
- Bridging open work permits, allowing continued work while PR applications are processed
If you arrived under CUAET and have been working in Canada, you are likely already eligible for at least one of these pathways. The key is to act early, as processing times can be lengthy and you want to ensure your status remains valid throughout the application process. For a broader perspective on immigration routes, our detailed guide on how to immigrate to Canada from Ukraine covers additional options.
Permanent Residence Pathways for Ukrainians
Whether you arrived under CUAET, are currently in Canada on another type of permit, or are applying from Ukraine, there are several permanent residence pathways available in 2026. Understanding the differences between them is essential for choosing the one that gives you the best chance of success.
| Pathway | Key Requirements | Processing Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express Entry – CEC | 1 year Canadian work experience, CLB 7 (NOC TEER 0/1) or CLB 5 (NOC TEER 2/3) | 6–8 months | CUAET holders with Canadian work experience |
| Express Entry – FSW | 1 year skilled work experience, CLB 7, ECA, 67+ points on FSW grid | 6–8 months | Educated professionals with strong language scores |
| Express Entry – FSTW | 2 years experience in a skilled trade, CLB 5 speaking/listening, CLB 4 reading/writing | 6–8 months | Tradespeople (electricians, welders, plumbers) |
| Provincial Nominee (PNP) | Varies by province; often requires job offer or work experience in province | 12–18 months | Workers in specific provinces with in-demand skills |
| Family Sponsorship | Spouse, parent or child who is a Canadian citizen or PR | 12 months (spouse) | Those with family connections in Canada |
| Atlantic Immigration Program | Job offer from designated employer in Atlantic Canada, CLB 4+ | 12 months | Workers with job offers in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland |
Express Entry: How It Works for Ukrainians
Express Entry is the most popular and fastest pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers. It is a points-based system managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that ranks candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Your CRS score is calculated based on four main factors:
- Age: Maximum points awarded between ages 20 and 29, declining gradually after 30
- Education: Higher credentials earn more points; a bachelor's degree scores well, a master's scores higher
- Language proficiency: IELTS, CELPIP or TEF scores directly translate into CRS points
- Work experience: Both Canadian and foreign skilled work experience count, with Canadian experience weighted more heavily
Additional points are awarded for factors such as a spouse's credentials, a provincial nomination (a significant +600 points), a valid job offer and French language ability. In 2025 and 2026, IRCC has also conducted category-based draws targeting specific occupations in healthcare, STEM, trades, transport and agriculture, sometimes with lower CRS cut-offs than general draws.
For a Ukrainian applicant with a bachelor's degree, one year of Canadian work experience, and solid IELTS scores (for example, 7.0 in each band), a CRS score in the range of 450 to 490 is achievable. This is competitive for many draws. If your score falls short, a provincial nomination instantly adds 600 points, making a PNP nomination the most reliable strategy for those with lower base scores.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Each Canadian province and territory (except Quebec, which has its own system) operates a Provincial Nominee Program designed to attract immigrants who will meet local labour market needs. For Ukrainian immigrants, several provinces stand out as particularly welcoming and accessible.
Alberta has become one of the top destinations for Ukrainian newcomers. The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) offers several streams including the Alberta Opportunity Stream for workers already employed in the province, and the Alberta Express Entry Stream for candidates in the federal Express Entry pool. Alberta's booming energy, construction and technology sectors provide strong employment prospects, and its lower cost of living compared to Ontario or British Columbia makes it attractive for families.
Ontario operates the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), which is the largest PNP in Canada. With streams targeting skilled workers, international students, entrepreneurs and in-demand occupations, Ontario offers numerous pathways. The province's diverse economy, centered around Toronto and Ottawa, provides opportunities across virtually every industry.
Manitoba has one of the oldest and most established Ukrainian communities in Canada, dating back to the 1890s. The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) offers pathways for skilled workers, international graduates and those with connections to the province. Winnipeg, with its deep Ukrainian roots, offers affordable housing and a strong sense of community.
Saskatchewan similarly has a century-old Ukrainian heritage and an active Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). The province is particularly welcoming to workers in agriculture, healthcare and skilled trades. Cities like Saskatoon and Regina offer affordable living and close-knit communities. Before settling on a province, many newcomers find it helpful to explore different regions of Canada to discover which area best matches their lifestyle, career goals and family needs.
Language Requirements and Educational Credentials
Language proficiency is one of the most critical factors in any Canadian immigration application. Canada accepts results from several approved language tests:
- IELTS General Training (International English Language Testing System) – the most widely used English test for immigration
- CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) – a computer-based test available at centres across Canada
- TEF Canada / TCF Canada – for those applying with French language proficiency
For Express Entry, the minimum language requirement depends on the program. The Canadian Experience Class requires CLB 7 (equivalent to IELTS 6.0 in each band) for NOC TEER 0 and 1 occupations, or CLB 5 (IELTS 5.0) for NOC TEER 2 and 3 occupations. The Federal Skilled Worker Program requires a minimum of CLB 7 across all four skills. However, higher scores significantly boost your CRS ranking. An IELTS score of 8.0 or above in each band awards maximum language points and can make the difference between receiving an invitation or not.
Many Ukrainians arrive with intermediate English skills and improve rapidly through immersion, free LINC classes offered by settlement organizations and online resources. Investing in language preparation before or immediately after arrival is one of the most impactful steps you can take.
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is required for anyone using foreign education in an Express Entry application. You must have your Ukrainian diplomas and degrees assessed by an IRCC-designated organization such as WES (World Education Services), IQAS or the University of Toronto Comparative Education Service. The assessment confirms that your Ukrainian education is equivalent to a Canadian credential. The process typically takes four to eight weeks and costs between CAD 200 and CAD 350. Start this process early, as you will need the completed ECA before you can submit your Express Entry profile.
Settlement Services and Community Support
Canada offers one of the most comprehensive settlement support systems in the world for newcomers, and Ukrainians in 2026 have access to an especially robust network of services. These fall into two main categories: government-funded programs and community-based support.
IRCC-funded settlement organizations operate in every province and provide free services to permanent residents and some temporary residents. These services include:
- Language training: LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes offer free English or French instruction at multiple levels
- Employment assistance: Resume writing, job search strategies, interview preparation, sector-specific training and connections with employers
- Orientation sessions: Understanding Canadian laws, rights, healthcare, banking, education system and civic participation
- Help finding housing: Guidance on rental markets, tenant rights, neighbourhood research and housing subsidies
- Translation and interpretation: Free document translation and interpretation for appointments
- Mentorship programs: Connecting newcomers with established immigrants or Canadians in their professional field
Ukrainian community organizations provide an additional layer of support that is culturally sensitive and often available in Ukrainian. Since 2022, organizations such as the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), local Ukrainian churches and grassroots volunteer groups have mobilized extraordinary resources for newcomers. These organizations offer help with initial settlement, emotional support from people who understand the experience of displacement, legal advice on immigration matters and connections to the broader community of Ukrainians in Canada.
Many CUAET holders who arrived in 2022 and 2023 have themselves become mentors and volunteers, helping newer arrivals navigate the same challenges they once faced. This cycle of mutual support has strengthened the Ukrainian community across Canada and created pathways for integration that go far beyond what any government program alone could provide.
Housing, Employment and Practical Life
Finding Housing
Housing is often the biggest practical challenge for newcomers to Canada. Rental markets in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver are competitive and expensive. However, many mid-sized cities offer much more affordable options:
- Winnipeg, Manitoba: One of the most affordable cities in Canada with a large Ukrainian community. Average one-bedroom rent: CAD 1,100–1,400/month
- Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta: Strong job markets with reasonable rents. Average one-bedroom rent: CAD 1,300–1,600/month
- Saskatoon and Regina, Saskatchewan: Affordable living in communities with deep Ukrainian roots. Average one-bedroom rent: CAD 1,000–1,300/month
- Ottawa, Ontario: Government and technology jobs with lower rents than Toronto. Average one-bedroom rent: CAD 1,600–1,900/month
- Toronto, Ontario: Maximum job opportunities but highest rents. Average one-bedroom rent: CAD 2,200–2,700/month
When searching for housing, use established platforms like Rentals.ca, Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace and Realtor.ca. Be cautious of rental scams, never send money before viewing a property in person, and understand your rights as a tenant under provincial legislation.
Employment and Career Building
Ukrainians bring strong educational backgrounds and a wide range of professional skills to the Canadian labour market. However, the reality of credential recognition means that some professionals need to go through additional steps before practising in Canada.
Regulated professions such as medicine, engineering, nursing, law, accounting and teaching require Canadian licensing. This typically involves having credentials assessed, possibly completing bridging courses, passing Canadian examinations and sometimes completing supervised practice hours. The process can take one to three years depending on the profession, but regulatory bodies in most provinces have been working to streamline recognition for Ukrainian professionals.
In-demand occupations where Ukrainians often find work quickly include:
- Information technology (software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, QA testing)
- Construction and skilled trades (electricians, welders, carpenters, heavy equipment operators)
- Healthcare support (personal support workers, medical laboratory technicians)
- Transportation (truck drivers, logistics coordinators)
- Agriculture and food processing
- Customer service and retail (particularly for those still building language skills)
For a deeper understanding of how immigrants adapt to Canadian professional culture, our article on the Canadian way of life and immigrant adaptation provides valuable insights into workplace expectations, social norms and the adjustment period that every newcomer experiences.
Step-by-Step Immigration Pathway
The following table outlines the typical steps for a Ukrainian seeking permanent residence in Canada in 2026, whether applying from within Canada or from abroad.
| Step | Action | Estimated Timeline | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Research and choose your pathway | 1–2 weeks | Assess eligibility for Express Entry, PNP, family sponsorship or other programs |
| 2 | Take a language test (IELTS, CELPIP or TEF) | 1–3 months (preparation + test + results) | Aim for the highest score possible; CLB 7+ recommended |
| 3 | Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) | 4–8 weeks | Required for Express Entry if using foreign education; apply through WES, IQAS or other designated body |
| 4 | Gather documents (passport, work references, police clearances) | 2–6 weeks | Obtain reference letters from all employers, police certificates from every country you lived in for 6+ months |
| 5 | Create Express Entry profile or submit PNP application | 1–2 days | Enter all information accurately; errors can cause delays or refusals |
| 6 | Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA) or provincial nomination | Varies: weeks to months depending on CRS score and draw schedule | Monitor draw results; consider PNP nomination for +600 CRS points |
| 7 | Submit permanent residence application | 60 days to complete after ITA | Upload all documents, pay fees, complete medical exam |
| 8 | Medical exam and biometrics | 1–2 weeks | Must use an IRCC-designated panel physician |
| 9 | Application processing | 6–8 months (Express Entry) or 12–18 months (PNP) | Continue working if on valid work permit; do not leave Canada without a valid travel document |
| 10 | Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) | Upon approval | Complete landing process; PR card mailed to your Canadian address |
Timeline and Costs
Immigrating to Canada involves various fees that applicants should budget for in advance. Here is a breakdown of the main costs in 2026:
- Express Entry application fee: CAD 1,365 per adult (includes processing fee and right of permanent residence fee)
- Provincial Nominee Program fees: Vary by province, typically CAD 250–500 for the provincial stage, plus the federal processing fee
- Language test (IELTS/CELPIP): CAD 300–400
- Educational Credential Assessment: CAD 200–350
- Medical exam: CAD 200–450 per person (varies by location)
- Police clearance certificates: CAD 25–100 per country
- Biometrics: CAD 85 per person
- Photos: CAD 15–30
In total, a single applicant should budget approximately CAD 2,500 to 3,500 for the entire immigration process. For a family of two adults and two children, the total can reach CAD 5,000 to 8,000. While these costs are significant, they are an investment in your family's future. Some settlement organizations offer emergency financial assistance or interest-free loans to help cover immigration costs for those in difficult financial situations.
The total timeline from initial preparation to receiving permanent residence typically ranges from 8 to 14 months for Express Entry and 14 to 24 months for PNP pathways. Starting your language test preparation and ECA early is the best way to minimize delays.
Documents Needed Checklist
Keeping your documents organized and ready is essential for a smooth immigration process. Here is a comprehensive checklist:
- Valid passport (Ukrainian biometric passport recommended; must be valid for at least one year)
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP or TEF; must be less than two years old at the time of application)
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report (from an IRCC-designated organization)
- Original diplomas and transcripts (Ukrainian originals and certified translations)
- Work reference letters (from each employer, on company letterhead, detailing job title, duties, dates and hours worked)
- Police clearance certificates (from Ukraine and any country where you lived for six or more months since age 18)
- Proof of funds (bank statements showing sufficient settlement funds: approximately CAD 14,690 for a single applicant in 2026, unless you have a valid Canadian job offer or are applying through CEC)
- Medical exam results (from an IRCC-designated panel physician)
- Digital photographs (meeting IRCC specifications)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable, with certified translation)
- Birth certificates for dependants (with certified translations)
- Canadian work permit or CUAET documentation (if applicable)
- Canadian tax returns and Notices of Assessment (if applying from within Canada)
- Provincial nomination certificate (if applying through a PNP)
Keep both physical and digital copies of every document. Scan everything in colour at high resolution and save files with clear, descriptive names. Many applicants find it helpful to organize documents in folders by category (identity, education, work, language, legal) for quick access during the application process.
Tips for a Successful Immigration
Having worked with and heard from hundreds of Ukrainian newcomers who have navigated the Canadian immigration system, we can offer the following practical advice:
- Start language preparation immediately. Your IELTS or CELPIP score is the single most impactful factor you can control. Even a 0.5-point improvement across all bands can add 30 to 50 CRS points. Take a preparation course, practise daily and take the test more than once if needed.
- Apply for your ECA early. This is one of the most common causes of delay. Begin the Educational Credential Assessment process as soon as you decide to pursue permanent residence.
- Consider a provincial nomination seriously. If your CRS score is below 480, a PNP nomination adding 600 points is your most reliable path to an invitation. Research which provinces have streams that match your occupation and situation.
- Keep detailed records of your Canadian work experience. Every week you work in Canada strengthens your application. Request reference letters from employers promptly, as companies sometimes close or managers leave.
- Use free settlement services. Do not pay for advice that you can get for free from IRCC-funded organizations. Licensed immigration consultants (RCICs) or lawyers can be worth the cost for complex cases, but many straightforward applications can be completed without paid help.
- Stay informed about draw schedules and policy changes. Follow IRCC announcements and Express Entry draw results closely. Immigration policy can change, and being prepared to act quickly when conditions are favourable gives you an advantage.
- Connect with the Ukrainian community. Whether in Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton or another city, the Ukrainian community can provide invaluable support, advice and connections. Attend events, join community organizations and do not hesitate to ask for help.
- Take care of your mental health. Immigration is stressful, and this is compounded for those who have been displaced by war. Canada offers free mental health resources through settlement organizations, provincial health programs and community support groups. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
The journey from Ukraine to permanent residence in Canada is challenging, but it is also a path that hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians have already walked successfully. Canada continues to be one of the most welcoming countries in the world for immigrants, and the Ukrainian community here is stronger and more vibrant than ever. With the right preparation, perseverance and support, building a permanent life in Canada is an achievable goal for any Ukrainian who chooses this path.