The Extended Temporary Public Policy: Key Details
On February 27, 2025, IRCC announced the extension of the temporary public policy to facilitate continued access to open work permits for foreign nationals in Canada who arrived under CUAET. This policy, came into effect on April 1, 2025, and will remain in force until March 31, 2026.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the work permit extension under this policy, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. Status Requirements:
Be a Ukrainian national, OR
Be a family member (as defined in subsection 1(3) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations) of a Ukrainian national who holds temporary resident status granted under CUAET measures
2. Documentation Requirements: Applicants must hold one of the following:
A temporary resident visa issued under the CUAET public policies, OR
A temporary resident permit issued under the CUAET public policies, OR
Temporary resident status granted following facilitation under the CUAET public policies
3. Arrival Timing:
Must have arrived in Canada on or before March 31, 2024
4. Current Status:
Must currently hold valid temporary resident status in Canada
5. Application Submission:
Must have submitted an application for a work permit (new or renewal) under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations
Duration of Work Permits
One of the most significant benefits of this extended policy is the duration of work permits available. Eligible applicants can receive open work permits valid for up to three years, subject to passport validity. This extended validity period provides CUAET holders with:
Long-term stability for employment planning
Reduced administrative burden from frequent renewals
Greater opportunity to establish roots in Canadian communities
More time to explore permanent residence pathways
Changes to the Program: What's Different in 2025-2026
While the extension of the policy is welcome news, CUAET holders should be aware of several important changes that took effect on January 1, 2025:
1. End of Fee Exemptions
Previously, CUAET applicants were exempt from paying standard immigration fees. As of January 1, 2025, standard fees now apply:
Work permit processing fee: $155
Open work permit holder fee: $100
Total per applicant: $255
While this represents an additional cost, it's important to note that these fees remain standard and are significantly lower than LMIA-based work permit costs.
2. End of Free Settlement Services Priority
CUAET holders previously had priority access to free settlement services. While settlement services remain available to newcomers, CUAET holders are now integrated into the regular service delivery model alongside other newcomers.
3. No More Automatic Work Permits at Port of Entry
Ukrainian nationals arriving in Canada can no longer automatically obtain work permits at the port of entry. Those wishing to work must apply through standard channels, though they remain eligible for the simplified process under the extended temporary public policy if they meet eligibility criteria.
Application Process: Step by Step
For CUAET holders looking to extend their work permits under this policy, here's what you need to know:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Review the eligibility criteria carefully. You must:
Be in Canada with valid temporary resident status
Have arrived on or before March 31, 2024
Hold status granted under CUAET measures
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following:
Completed IMM 5710 form (Application to Change Conditions, Extend Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker)
Valid passport (with at least 3 years validity for maximum work permit duration)
Proof of current temporary resident status
Digital photo meeting IRCC specifications
Proof of payment for application fees
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications must be submitted online through the IRCC portal. Paper applications are generally not accepted for work permit extensions unless you have specific accessibility requirements.
Step 4: Maintain Status While Waiting
If you submit your extension application before your current work permit expires, you can continue to work under the same conditions while your application is being processed. This is known as "implied status."
Step 5: Monitor Your Application
Check your application status regularly through your IRCC online account. Processing times vary, but current estimates suggest 2-4 months for work permit extensions.
Important Considerations and Warnings
Physical Presence Requirement
The policy is designed for individuals who are genuinely residing in Canada. Extended absences from Canada while holding temporary resident status may raise concerns with IRCC about whether you have abandoned your residence. If you plan to travel outside Canada for extended periods, consult with an immigration professional about maintaining your status.
Pathway to Permanent Residence
While the work permit extension provides temporary stability, CUAET holders should actively explore pathways to permanent residence. Options may include:
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class)
Provincial Nominee Programs (particularly if you have established employment in a specific province)
Humanitarian and Compassionate applications (though processing times are lengthy)
Family sponsorship (if you have eligible family members in Canada)
The three-year work permit provides valuable time to gain Canadian work experience, improve language skills, and strengthen your permanent residence profile.
Deadline Awareness
The current policy expires on March 31, 2026. While IRCC may extend it further depending on circumstances in Ukraine, there is no guarantee. CUAET holders should:
Apply for extensions well before the deadline
Begin exploring permanent residence options now
Not assume automatic future extensions
Family Members
Family members who accompanied you to Canada under CUAET are also eligible for work permit extensions, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. Each family member must submit a separate application, but applications can be submitted together.
Recommendations for CUAET Holders
Based on the current policy framework, here are key recommendations for maximizing your opportunities in Canada:
1. Apply for Extension Early
Don't wait until the last minute. Submit your work permit extension application at least 4-6 months before your current permit expires to avoid gaps in authorization.
2. Document Everything
Maintain comprehensive records of:
Your residence in Canada (lease agreements, utility bills)
Employment history (pay stubs, T4 slips, employment letters)
Language training (course certificates, test results)
Community involvement (volunteer work, memberships)
These documents will be valuable for future permanent residence applications.
3. Invest in Language Skills
Strong English and/or French language skills are crucial for:
Better employment opportunities
Higher Express Entry scores
Successful integration
Future citizenship applications
Take advantage of language training programs available in your community.
4. Explore PR Pathways Now
Don't wait until your work permit is about to expire to start thinking about permanent residence. Many pathways require Canadian work experience, which you're accumulating now. Consult with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or immigration lawyer to identify the best PR pathway for your situation.
5. Stay Informed
Immigration policies can change. Stay updated through:
Official IRCC communications
Reputable immigration news sources
Your immigration representative
Community organizations serving Ukrainian newcomers
The extension of the CUAET work permit policy until March 31, 2026, demonstrates Canada's continued commitment to supporting Ukrainian nationals and their families during this unprecedented humanitarian crisis. The three-year work permit duration provides valuable stability and time to build a future in Canada.
