The Government of Canada has announced an extension of key immigration measures to support Ukrainian nationals and their families affected by the ongoing conflict. These updates provide continued access to work permits, study permits, and temporary resident status, ensuring stability and opportunity for those already in Canada.

This latest announcement reinforces Canada’s humanitarian commitment and offers Ukrainians the ability to continue contributing to the country’s workforce and economy.

Overview of the 2026 Update

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended special immigration measures under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET). These provisions allow eligible Ukrainian nationals and their family members to remain in Canada while maintaining access to employment and education opportunities.

The extension ensures that those already in Canada can continue to live and work legally without disruption, providing much-needed certainty during challenging times.

Who Is Eligible?

These extended measures apply to:

• Ukrainian nationals and their family members residing in Canada
• Individuals who arrived in Canada under the CUAET program
• Temporary residents requiring an extension of their legal status
• Eligible applicants seeking work or study permits

Extended Work Permit Options

Under the updated policy, eligible Ukrainians can continue to benefit from flexible immigration pathways. Applicants may:

• Apply for a new open work permit
• Extend their existing open work permit
• Apply for or extend a study permit
• Restore or maintain their temporary resident status in Canada

Open work permits allow individuals to work for most employers across Canada without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), making it easier to secure employment and gain Canadian work experience.

New Application Deadlines

Applicants must be mindful of the updated timelines established by the Government of Canada. Eligible Ukrainian nationals should submit their applications before the specified deadlines to maintain their legal status in Canada.

• Extended deadlines provide additional time to apply for work and study permits.
• Applicants must ensure their temporary resident status remains valid.
• Early submission is recommended to avoid processing delays.

Maintaining Legal Status in Canada

Ukrainians currently residing in Canada must ensure they maintain valid immigration status. To remain compliant with Canadian immigration regulations, applicants should:

• Apply for extensions before their current status expires
• Monitor the validity of their passports and biometrics
• Retain documentation supporting their eligibility
• Seek professional guidance when necessary

Those who apply before their status expires may continue working or studying under maintained status while awaiting a decision from IRCC.

Benefits of the Extended Measures

The extension of these temporary measures provides numerous advantages for Ukrainian nationals and their families in Canada.

• Continued access to employment opportunities
• Flexibility to work anywhere in Canada
• Access to Canadian education and training
• Enhanced stability and security
• Opportunities to transition to permanent residence

Canada’s Ongoing Support for Ukrainians

Since 2022, Canada has demonstrated global leadership by welcoming Ukrainians displaced by war. The extension of these immigration measures reflects the country’s dedication to humanitarian assistance and economic integration.

By enabling Ukrainians to continue working and studying, Canada strengthens its diverse workforce while providing meaningful support to those in need.

How to Apply

Eligible applicants can submit their applications online through the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Before applying, individuals should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and prepare the necessary documentation.

Applicants are encouraged to review official government guidelines or consult with an immigration professional to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Conclusion

The extension of work permit measures for Ukrainians in 2026 highlights Canada’s continued commitment to providing safety, stability, and opportunity. These measures allow eligible individuals to remain in Canada, contribute to the economy, and build a secure future.

Ukrainians currently residing in Canada should act promptly to take advantage of these extended provisions and maintain their legal status.