Can new arrivals apply for PR while under temporary protection?

In an era of global challenges and military conflicts, the issue of migration and ensuring protection for displaced persons is becoming particularly relevant. Canada, as one of the leading countries in accepting refugees and immigrants, has developed comprehensive support programs for those forced to leave their homeland due to war or persecution. This is especially true for Ukrainians who, since February 24, 2022, have been moving to Canada in search of safety and new opportunities for life.

Temporary protection through the CUAET program

Canada introduced a special program called CUAET (Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel) in March 2022 in response to the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. This program allows Ukrainians and their family members to temporarily move to Canada with the right to work and study for up to three years.

It is important to understand that CUAET is a temporary program, not a refugee or permanent settlement program. The program is designed to provide temporary refuge with the option to return home when it is safe to do so. According to the Canadian government, more than 286,000 Ukrainians have arrived in the country through this program.

Extension of CUAET status

In February 2025, the Canadian government announced that it would extend the application period for Ukrainians who arrived in the country before March 31, 2024, to apply for status extension. These individuals may apply to extend their status until March 31, 2026. After March 31, 2025, access to free settlement services will be discontinued.

Difference between temporary protection and refugee status

A key feature of the CUAET program is that it does not grant refugee status in the traditional sense. Individuals arriving through the CUAET do not go through the typical refugee status determination process through the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB). Instead, they are granted temporary resident status with the right to work and study.

Refugee status in Canada is a separate and complex process that involves a court hearing and can take months or years. For Ukrainians, obtaining refugee status is particularly difficult due to Ukraine's relatively high democracy rating compared to other countries.

Pathways to permanent residency for CUAET holders

Special program for Ukrainian families

In October 2023, Canada launched a special permanent residency program for Ukrainian families. This program allows Ukrainian citizens who are in Canada with temporary status to apply for permanent residency if they have relatives who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

The program includes the following categories of relatives: spouses or partners, children (regardless of age), grandchildren, parents, grandparents, brothers, and sisters. Applicants must be in Canada at the time of application and when they receive permanent residency. The program was in effect until October 22, 2024.

Economic immigration programs

CUAET holders can apply for permanent residency through various economic immigration programs:

  • Federal Express Entry System: three main programs — Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades Program.
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): each province, including Alberta (AAIP), has its own nomination streams.
  • Specialized programs: Agri-Food Immigration Pilot, Home Child Care Provider Pilot, etc.

Humanitarian and family programs

  • Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds — consideration of the applicant's special circumstances.
  • Family Class Sponsorship — support for relatives by Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

“Protected Person” status and its significance

If a Ukrainian applies for refugee status in Canada and receives a positive decision from the IRB, they become a “Protected Person.” This status automatically entitles them to apply for permanent residence.

Protected Persons include:

  • Convention refugees (IRB)
  • Persons in need of protection (IRB)
  • Persons with a positive PRRA
  • Protected temporary residents

Statistics and reality of the transition from CUAET to PR

Only 7% of Ukrainians meet the criteria for the special family program.

Main obstacles:

  • 68% of CUAET beneficiaries are over 30 years old
  • Many are not working in their field
  • Language barriers
  • Lack of Canadian experience

Support services in Calgary

Key support organizations

  • CCIS — housing, employment, integration
  • CFN — language courses, job search
  • ISC — translation, language assessment, education

Changes to CUAET services

As of March 31, 2025, free settlement services for CUAET will no longer be provided.

Housing support

  • Temporary accommodation (up to 14 days)
  • Limited number of places
  • One-time assistance: $3,000 for adults, $1,500 for children

Recommendations for newcomers

  1. Evaluate all available immigration options
  2. Improve language skills
  3. Gain experience (work, volunteer)
  4. Consider refugee status (if applicable)
  5. Use all available services

Conclusion Despite the temporary nature of the CUAET, Ukrainians have a real chance of obtaining PR in Canada. Calgary is a welcoming city for adaptation and integration thanks to its developed support system and active Ukrainian community.