Що таке CUAET (Канадсько-українська авторизація для екстрених поїздок)?

Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) is a special temporary immigration program introduced by the Canadian government on March 17, 2022, in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The program provides Ukrainian citizens and their families with the opportunity to obtain a temporary residence permit in Canada for up to three years with the right to work and study.

Key features of the program

CUAET is not a regular visa, but a comprehensive support program that offers several important benefits. The program was created as free of charge and with no restrictions on the number of applications, allowing Canada to respond quickly to the humanitarian crisis.

Over the entire period of the program, 1,189,320 applications were submitted, of which 962,612 (approximately 80.94%) were approved. As of April 1, 2024, 298,128 people had arrived in Canada under the CUAET program. This makes CUAET one of the most successful emergency response programs in the history of Canadian immigration policy.

Who can apply

Main categories of applicants

The CUAET program is available to two main categories of individuals:

• Ukrainian citizens — individuals who have Ukrainian citizenship and a valid Ukrainian passport or other identity document.
• Family members of Ukrainian citizens — individuals of any citizenship who are relatives of Ukrainian citizens.

Definition of family members

According to the program rules, family members are considered to be:

• Spouse or common-law partner of a Ukrainian citizen
• Dependent children of a Ukrainian citizen (under 22 years of age, unmarried)
• Dependent children of a spouse or civil partner
• Dependent children of a dependent child (grandchildren)

It is important to note that each family member must submit a separate application, even if they are traveling together.

Benefits and features of the program

Permits and statuses

CUAET program participants receive several important permits:

• Visitor visa valid for 3 years instead of the standard 6 months. This allows you to stay in Canada legally for an extended period.
• Open work permit — provided free of charge with the visa, allowing you to work for any employer in Canada without the need for a separate permit.
• Right to study — at Canadian educational institutions during the period of stay.

Medical requirements and exemptions

One of the most important exemptions of the CUAET program is the exemption from mandatory medical examination abroad. Instead:

• Participants are exempt from undergoing a medical examination before arriving in Canada
• Upon arrival in Canada, they must undergo a medical diagnostic test within 90 days
• The test includes a chest X-ray and blood test to detect infectious diseases

Application processing speed

The CUAET program was designed for extremely fast application processing:

• 14 days — standard processing time for a complete application
• Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) can be submitted online
• Complex cases may require additional time

Financial support

One-time financial assistance

The Canadian government has introduced a special financial support program for CUAET participants:

• 3,000 Canadian dollars for each adult (18+ years old)
• 1,500 Canadian dollars for each child (up to and including 17 years old)

Conditions for receiving assistance

To receive financial assistance, you must:

• Be in Canada under the CUAET program
• Have a Canadian bank account
• Have a valid temporary resident status document (IMM1442) marked CUAET
• Apply online through the government portal

Funds will be transferred directly to your bank account within 5 business days of submitting your application.

Current status of the program

End of application period

• July 15, 2023 — the CUAET application period has officially closed. This means that new applications are no longer being accepted.
• March 31, 2024 — Last day to enter Canada under this program with access to federal support.

Extension for those already in Canada

Despite the end of the main program, the Canadian government has extended some measures for Ukrainians already in Canada:

• Until March 31, 2026 — Ukrainians who arrived before March 31, 2024, can apply for:
• a new open work permit for up to 3 years
• an extension of an existing work permit
• a new study permit

Standard application fees apply.

Integration and support services

Free adaptation services

Until March 31, 2025, all Ukrainian temporary residents and their family members have access to free integration services funded by IRCC:

• Information orientation on life in Canada, laws, culture
• Employment services — job search and career development
• Language courses in English and French
• Community support — building social networks
• Specialized services — to address specific adaptation issues

Health insurance

Ukrainians who arrive under the CUAET program are eligible for health insurance in their province of residence. For example, in Manitoba, coverage begins on the day of arrival, and in Ontario, it is provided through the national OHIP program, which gives access to medical services and medications.

Paths to permanent residence

Special programs for Ukrainians

Canada has introduced several ways for Ukrainian citizens to obtain permanent residence:

• Family reunification program (valid until October 22, 2024) — allowed relatives who are citizens or permanent residents of Canada to apply for permanent residence.
• Standard immigration programs — use of work experience and education obtained in Canada to apply through Express Entry, provincial programs, etc.

Advantages for future immigration

• Work experience and education under the CUAET program increase the chances of obtaining permanent residence
• Canadian work experience is valued more highly in the Express Entry system
• Provincial programs often give preference to candidates with local experience
• Canadian education also adds points in immigration systems

Application process

Required documents

• Valid passport or other identification document
• Biometric data (fingerprints and photo)
• Documents regarding family ties (if any)
• Current address, even if temporary

Online process

• The entire procedure was submitted through the official website
• In-person submissions at embassies were no longer accepted
• Assistance with the application could be provided by friends, family, or authorized representatives

Biometric requirements

Biometric data submission process

1. Payment of the fee (CAN$85 for individuals, maximum CAN$170 for families)
2. Receive a letter of instruction (BIL)
3. Make an appointment at the biometrics center

• Documents: BIL, valid passport

Features for different statuses

• For visitors: three-month visitor document, right to stay for 3 years, possibility to apply for a work permit
• For workers: received a work permit immediately, can work for any employer
• For students: free study permit until December 31, 2024, access to educational programs

Future prospects and end of support

• Federal support services end on March 31, 2025
• Campaigns are being organized to extend the program
• Three-year permits and pathways to permanent residence remain relevant in Ukrainian communities

Statistics and effectiveness

• Approximately 300,000 Ukrainians have arrived
• 80.94% of applications approved
• All provinces covered
• Contribution to the country's economy through work and consumer demand

Conclusion

The CUAET program has become a unique example of humanitarian aid, allowing nearly 300,000 Ukrainians to find temporary refuge in Canada, gain experience, and have the opportunity to integrate. Its success and transparent mechanisms have set an example for future humanitarian crisis response measures, demonstrating how humanitarian policy can be combined with long-term development and immigration strategy.