Is it possible to extend a CUAET visa after its expiration date?

The issue of extending a CUAET visa after it expires is one of the most pressing problems for thousands of Ukrainians who found refuge in Canada after the start of the full-scale war. This is especially relevant for residents of Calgary and Alberta, as many Ukrainian families have settled here and are now facing uncertainty about their status. Understanding the options and pathways to legalization is essential for planning for the future and avoiding loss of status.

Current status of the CUAET program and its time limits

CUAET officially closed registration for new applications on July 15, 2023. The last day for entry with full support is March 31, 2024. Those who are already in Canada can take advantage of additional extensions:

  • On February 27, 2025, the Canadian government granted Ukrainian applicants who arrived before March 31, 2024, the opportunity to do the following by March 31, 2026:
  • Apply for a new open work visa (up to 3 years)
  • Extend their current work visa
  • Apply for a new study permit

This means another year during which Ukrainians can resolve their status, apply for permanent residence, or deal with issues such as passport renewal or waiting for applications to be processed.

IMPORTANT! Temporary application relief ended on December 31, 2024. All new applications are subject to the standard procedure with the payment of regular government fees.

Options for those with valid status

Extension of work permits

  • You can apply for an extension in the standard way through IRCC.
  • You must do this before your current permit expires, otherwise you will lose your “maintained status.”
  • Maintained status:
  • You are legally in Canada until a decision is made on your application
  • You can work under the same conditions
  • Gather: valid passport, old visa, proof of residence, financial details, photo
  • Cost: approximately $155 + $85 for biometrics

Renewal of student permits

The procedure is almost identical: apply in advance and maintain your legal status until a decision is made.

Passport issues

  • Many Ukrainians face delays due to queues, complicated military registration, inaccessible consulates, and requirements for men of conscription age.
  • Canada allows you to apply for an extension even with a passport that is about to expire. However, each case is considered individually!
  • Start renewing your passport in advance — this is a critical requirement for any permit.

If your status has already expired

Status Restoration

  • Deadline: up to 90 days after the previous permit expires.
  • Requirements: submit a form (e.g., IMM 5710), explain the reasons for the delay, confirm that you meet the criteria, and pay an additional fee of $200.
  • While your application is being processed: you cannot work or study!

If you have missed the 90-day deadline

  • Don't lose hope: there are alternative options available.

H&C (Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds)

  • Allows you to apply for permanent status based on personal circumstances (establishment in Canada, children, situation at home, medical reasons, family ties).
  • For Ukrainians: courts consider the war in Ukraine as a valid argument, although such applications should focus on the fact of integration in Canada.
  • Don't confuse: H&C is not the same as refugee status!

Refugee status

  • You can apply for refugee status, but it is a complex process: returning to Ukraine becomes virtually impossible even after the war ends.
  • Personal protection and social rights are among the benefits, but the procedures are lengthy and it can be difficult to prove individual persecution.

TRP — Temporary Resident Permit

  • In emergency situations, you can apply for a TRP if other options are not available.
  • Also suitable if you are well established in the country, have humanitarian or medical reasons, or family circumstances.

Alternatives, support, pathways to permanent residence

Provincial programs

  • Alberta Opportunity Stream — for those who already have a permit, are working or have studied in Alberta
  • Rural Renewal Stream — for those who are willing to move to rural areas
  • Accelerated Tech Pathway — IT professionals
  • Tourism and Hospitality Stream — tourism workers

Support in Calgary

  • CCIS (ccisab.ca) — immigration services, employment, family support
  • Centre for Newcomers (centrefornewcomers.ca) — support for newcomers, legal assistance
  • Immigrant Services Calgary — language assessment, employment, educational programs

Provincial services

  • Language courses, employment, integration, social services

Permanent residence

  • Express Entry: Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker/Trades.
  • Family sponsorship — through relatives with permanent status.
  • Special programs — for Ukrainians with close relatives and difficult circumstances.

Practical advice

  • Take care of deadlines: Submit applications 30–60 days before the document expires.
  • Keep copies and correspondence: Document all steps.
  • Don't wait until the last minute: The earlier, the better.
  • Prepare translations: All foreign documents must be certified.
  • Make a financial plan: Budget for fees and charges.
  • Invest in language: This improves your chances of permanent residence and employment.
  • Don't be afraid to seek legal assistance: There are many organizations and hotlines in Calgary that can help.

Important contacts

  • Legal Aid Alberta — free legal assistance for people with low incomes.
  • Hotline for Ukrainians: 1-877-873-7875 (12:00–17:00 EST, Mon–Fri, Ukrainian/Russian/English).
  • *LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) — free English courses
  • Alberta Health Services — health insurance and social services
  • Mental Health Helpline: 1-877-303-2642 (24 hours a day)

Conclusion: Extension of CUAET status in Calgary is possible for most Ukrainians — the main thing is to know the deadlines, use all support services, and not lose hope. If you have already lost your status, there are still options for renewal or legalization through alternative programs. Canada and the Calgary community are doing their best to help Ukrainian families integrate and stay here legally — take advantage of all the resources available!