Support for Ukrainian migrants in Canada is declining: what opportunities remain?

The wave of support that rose in Canada at the start of the full-scale war in Ukraine is gradually subsiding. Whereas previously the country opened its borders to Ukrainians under simplified procedures, today the scale of this support has noticeably decreased. Find out what options for entry and residence remain in 2025 and where to seek assistance

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

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In recent years, the wave of solidarity among Canadians toward Ukrainians who fled the war has noticeably weakened. Although the majority continues to support the acceptance of refugees, the level of support has declined and the number of newly arrived Ukrainians has fallen sharply. This is evidenced by recent research data.

What is the attitude of Canadians toward visas for Ukrainians?

The survey shows that:

- 23% believe that the number of visas should be increased;

- 40% support the current level;

- 23% are in favor of a reduction.

Young people aged 18–24 are the most active in advocating for visa expansion, at 27%.

Dynamics of Ukrainian arrivals

Between the first quarter of 2024 and 2025, the number of Ukrainians arriving fell by 68.5%, from 66,720 to 21,110. For comparison, 78,360 Ukrainians arrived in Canada in 2022, 103,350 in 2023, and a record 111,960 in 2024.

This decline is taking place against the backdrop of protracted fighting in Ukraine and discussions about a possible ceasefire.

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Attitudes toward support for Ukraine

Canadians are divided on the issue of overall assistance to Ukraine:

- 51% believe that the country is not doing enough and that support should be increased;

- 26% are satisfied with the current level;

- 11% believe that assistance is excessive.

Among those who have a deeper understanding of the situation in Ukraine, 41% support increased migration, while among those who are less informed, this figure is only 10%.

Current opportunities for Ukrainians in Canada

CUAET program

The Canada–Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) was launched in 2022 and allowed Ukrainians to obtain a temporary permit to stay, work, and study for up to three years free of charge. The program provided financial assistance ($3,000 CAD for adults and $1,500 CAD for children), free temporary housing, and medical insurance.

Applications for the CUAET closed on July 15, 2023, and entry under this program was only possible until March 31, 2024. Adaptation services for those who arrived under the CUAET remain available until March 31, 2025.

Other ways to enter and stay

After the CUAET ends, Ukrainians can apply for:

Temporary Resident Visas (TRV) — with the possibility of further applying for work or study permits.

Family sponsorship for permanent residence — available from October 2023 for those who have close relatives in Canada with citizenship or permanent resident status.

Economic and provincial immigration programs — in particular, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, which helps you obtain permanent residence if you have professional skills or a job offer.

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program — for Ukrainians aged 18–25, allowing them to work temporarily in Canada.

What does this mean for Ukrainians?

The peak of support for Ukrainian migrants in Canada came in 2022–2023, when CUAET opened an unprecedentedly simple and fast path to entry and assistance. Today, however, the special programs are coming to an end, and new arrivals have to use standard immigration channels.

At the same time, despite the decrease in arrivals and the reduction of benefits, Canada still offers several real options for those who want to move, from family sponsorship to provincial nominations and youth exchange programs.

Tips and official resources for Ukrainian citizens

1. Check the current entry and stay requirements

All official information is available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

2. Use adaptation services

Even after the CUAET ends, you can get free advice on work, language learning, and housing from local Settlement Agencies.

3. Keep an eye on provincial programs

For example, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta often open selection processes for professionals needed in the local labor market.

4. Consular support

Ukraine has consulates general in Toronto and Edmonton and an embassy in Ottawa — contact details are available on the website mfa.gov.ua.

5. Documents and deadlines

Update your status on time — an expired visa or work permit can complicate the process of obtaining permanent residence.

Reminder! More and more Ukrainian graduates are choosing to study abroad because of the safety and high quality of education. Where Ukrainian graduates most often go to study abroad and what specialities they choose — we tell you here.

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