If you came to Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, there are several important deadlines and changes you need to know about. Please read this page carefully and take action before the dates listed below.
Key reminder: The CUAET program itself ended on July 15, 2023, but those already in Canada or approved before that date retain their status. Extensions and renewals are still possible under specific rules.
Extended Deadlines for Work & Study Permits
The Government of Canada has extended the deadline to apply for or renew CUAET-linked work permits and study permits. You must submit your application by March 31, 2026 to remain eligible under the CUAET framework.
If you already hold a valid work or study permit, you should apply to renew it before it expires. You can continue working or studying while your renewal application is in process, provided you applied before your current permit expired (maintained status / implied status rules apply).
For full details, visit the official IRCC extension page: canada.ca — Extend your stay under CUAET.
Temporary Public Policy (January 16, 2026)
On January 16, 2026, IRCC announced an updated temporary public policy that runs until March 31, 2027. This policy allows eligible Ukrainian nationals and their family members who are already in Canada to maintain or restore their temporary resident status under certain conditions.
This is a significant protection for those who may have let their status lapse. If you are in this situation, act quickly — restoration applications must be submitted while you are still in Canada.
Read the full announcement: canada.ca — Canada extends temporary residence & Ukrainian family reunification pathway.
The CUAET Program Itself
CUAET was introduced in March 2022 to provide Ukrainians and their family members fleeing the war with rapid, flexible, and safe access to Canada. It allowed holders to:
- Enter Canada for up to 3 years
- Work anywhere in Canada without a job offer
- Study at any institution
- Access free settlement services (until March 31, 2025)
- Bring eligible family members
Applications for new CUAET authorizations closed on July 15, 2023. However, those already in Canada under CUAET continue to be covered by extensions and temporary public policies.
Who Cannot Use CUAET Anymore
The following individuals are no longer able to apply under the CUAET framework:
- Anyone who has not yet entered Canada and did not receive a CUAET authorization before July 15, 2023
- Individuals who have departed Canada and whose CUAET authorization has expired
- Those who were refused CUAET and have not pursued another immigration pathway
If you are in one of these situations, please consult an immigration lawyer or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) about other available pathways such as visitor visas, student permits, or Express Entry.
Next Steps: PR Pathways, Status Renewals, Restoration
CUAET is a temporary status program. If you plan to remain in Canada long term, you should begin exploring permanent residence (PR) pathways as soon as possible. Options include:
- Express Entry — Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, or Federal Skilled Trades
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) — provincial streams for skilled workers, international students, and more
- Family Sponsorship — if you have a Canadian citizen or PR sponsor
- Refugee Protection — if you face ongoing risk
If you need to renew or restore your temporary status, visit the official CUAET measures page for current guidance.
Key Deadlines
| Deadline | What it means |
|---|---|
| March 31, 2025 | Free CUAET settlement support services ended |
| March 31, 2026 | Last day to apply for or renew CUAET work/study permits |
| March 31, 2027 | Temporary public policy (Jan 16, 2026) expires |
What CUAET Holders Should Do Next
- Check the expiry date on your current work permit, study permit, or visitor record.
- If your permit expires before March 31, 2026, submit a renewal application as soon as possible.
- If your status has already expired, check whether you qualify for restoration under the January 2026 temporary public policy.
- Gather all your documents: passport, CUAET authorization letter, current permit, proof of address.
- Begin researching permanent residence pathways that match your qualifications and work experience.
- Contact a local settlement agency or immigration legal clinic if you need help understanding your options.
- Make sure your children’s school enrollment and OHIP coverage are up to date.
- File your Canadian income taxes even if you had no income — this establishes your residency record and may qualify you for benefits.
How to Extend or Change Your Status
Applications to extend or change your immigration status must be submitted online through the IRCC secure portal (My Account or the IRCC web form). You will need:
- A valid passport (must not expire before your requested permit end date)
- Your current permit or authorization document
- Proof of your current address in Canada
- Application fee (fee waivers may apply in some cases)
- Any supporting documents specific to the permit type you are applying for
Processing times vary. Apply well before your current permit expires to avoid a gap in your legal status. If you apply before expiry, implied status allows you to continue your activities while the application is processed.
If Your CUAET Permit Has Expired
If your permit has expired and you did not apply to renew it before the expiry date, you may be in a situation called “maintained status” or you may have lost your status entirely. Do not leave Canada if you are unsure of your status, as re-entry may not be permitted.
Under the January 16, 2026 temporary public policy, some individuals may be able to restore their status. Contact an RCIC or immigration lawyer immediately for personalized advice.
Do not delay. The longer you wait after your permit expires, the more limited your options become. Restoration applications must be submitted while you are still in Canada.
Quick Tips
- Set a calendar reminder 6 months before your permit expiry date to start your renewal
- Keep digital and physical copies of all your immigration documents in a safe place
- Update your address with IRCC any time you move
- Do not rely on third-party “immigration consultants” who are not registered RCICs — verify credentials at college-ic.ca
- Many legal clinics offer free or low-cost immigration advice to CUAET holders