Canada has responded to the crisis in Ukraine with a compassionate policy which aims to permanently settle Ukrainian families in Canada. Through a temporary public policy, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is offering a pathway to permanent residency for eligible Ukrainian nationals and their family members already in Canada. This blog will walk you through the essentials of this policy, outline the eligibility requirements, and provide guidance to ensure a smooth application process before the deadline of October 22, 2024.
Understanding Eligibility and the Application Process For Canadian PR As A Ukrainian National
Who Can Apply Under This Policy?
Eligibility to apply under this new policy is categorized into two main groups:
Family Members of Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents:
Ukrainian nationals with family ties to Canadian citizens or permanent residents in Canada are eligible. This includes a wide range of family members, from spouses and children to grandparents and siblings. The principal applicant can be a child of any age, while the Canadian sponsor must be at least 18 years old.
Partners of Ukrainian Nationals with Canadian Family Connections:
If you’re the spouse or common-law partner of a Ukrainian national linked to a Canadian family and your partner is unable to leave Ukraine, you may apply. This category extends to a similar range of family members as the first.
Inclusive Family Applications:
Applicants can include their dependent children, spouses, or common-law partners in their application, provided they pass medical, security, and criminal admissibility checks.
Special Considerations for Quebec:
For those intending to reside in Quebec, securing a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ) is a necessary step before permanent residency is granted.
Sponsoring Ukrainian Family Members:
Canadian relatives looking to sponsor Ukrainian nationals must be living in Canada, be 18 years or older, and not have been granted permanent residence under this policy themselves.
Documenting Your Family Connections
Proof of family ties is crucial and can be established through various documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and photographs. The IMM 0191 form—a statutory declaration of the relationship—is also required.
After Submission: What to Expect?
Following your application submission, expect to receive an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) within approximately three months. Subsequent requests from IRCC may include additional documentation, medical exams, and biometrics.
Quebec Applicants:
Applications for those destined for Quebec will be processed in coordination with MIFI.
Keeping Your Application On Track:
Accuracy and completeness of your application are paramount. Keep all information up-to-date and respond promptly to IRCC inquiries.
Final Stages and Approval:
While no definitive processing times can be promised, staying proactive with your application is key. Once approved, IRCC will contact you and provide instructions on how to finalize your permanent resident status and obtain your permanent resident (PR) card.
Your Path to Permanent Residency As A Ukrainian National
This policy is a testament to Canada’s commitment to humanitarian efforts and provides a beacon of hope for Ukrainian nationals seeking to make Canada their permanent home.
Feeling overwhelmed by the immigration process? You’re not alone, and we’re here to help. Our law firm specializes in making sense of all the complicated rules and paperwork that come with moving to Canada. If you’re a Ukrainian national looking to apply under this pathway, please contact our office and speak with one of our experienced Canadian immigration lawyers who will assist you every step of the way.
