After the outbreak of the full-scale war, millions of Ukrainians were forced to flee their homes to escape the aggression. Canada opened its doors and launched the special humanitarian program CUAET, allowing Ukrainians to find safety and temporary refuge here.
But more than three years have passed. The war continues, and for most Ukrainians, returning home has become impossible.
During this time, Ukrainians haven’t just found temporary refuge — they’ve become part of Canadian society. Many are working and paying taxes, their children attend schools, families rent or buy homes, and countless volunteers contribute to local communities. Ukraine remains in their hearts, but Canada has become home.
Why Existing Immigration Programs Are Not Suitable
Canada’s immigration programs were designed for those who have spent years consciously preparing to emigrate. To apply, candidates must meet numerous criteria:
- be within a certain age range;
- have the required education and work experience in an in-demand occupation;
- demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English or French;
- gather documents, certificates, and test results — and then wait months, sometimes years, for processing.
Ukrainians did not choose this path in advance. They did not emigrate voluntarily — they fled the war.
Most of them simply cannot navigate Canada’s complex immigration process, as they never planned to become immigrants in the first place.
Why provincial programs don’t solve the problem
Across various Canadian provinces, new initiatives and petitions are emerging, calling for support to help Ukrainians remain in Canada. However, provincial governments have limited authority — they can only issue letters of support, which may slightly improve the chances of obtaining permanent resident status but do not grant it directly.
Ukrainians came to Canada under the federal CUAET program, and only the federal government has the power to establish a new permanent pathway for them.
Why is this program necessary?
Ukrainians have already made a significant contribution to Canada’s economy and culture. They work in healthcare, construction, technology, education, and the service industry. They haven’t just found refuge here — they are helping to strengthen Canada.
Yet without permanent residency, thousands of Ukrainian families live in constant uncertainty. They don’t know whether they’ll be able to stay, where their children will go to school, or what their future holds.
Conclusion
The creation of a special federal program for Ukrainians is not a matter of privilege — it is a matter of humanity, justice, and gratitude toward the people who have already become part of Canada.
Such a program would give them the chance to build a stable future and allow Canada to retain those who have already demonstrated their loyalty, hard work, and strong desire to contribute to this country.
📘 This initiative has been organized and developed by the United Ukrainians of Canada Foundation.
