Ukrainians in Canada Face Visa Issues as Permits Expire
Ukrainians who fled the war for safety in Canada are now facing bureaucratic challenges, particularly with renewing their study and work permits. Many are also struggling to update their Ukrainian passports.
Since February 2022, nearly 300,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Canada under a special program allowing unlimited entry for those seeking safety from the conflict. This program enables them to work, study, and stay in Canada for up to three years. The Canadian government has assured these individuals that they will not be sent back to Ukraine while the war persists.
However, some Ukrainian men of military age are encountering difficulties in renewing their passports, especially if they’ve expired since their arrival in Canada. The wait for appointments with Ukrainian consular services can stretch over a year, and a necessary military registration through the Reserve+ app complicates matters further. Many are unable to update their information online, which is essential for passport renewal. If they travel back to Ukraine to resolve this, they risk being drafted into the military.
Take the case of Vitalii Zhyvotiahin, who faced issues with both his military registration and expired passport. His situation remains unresolved, leaving him stuck in Canada while his wife, Olena, waits for extensions to her own and their children’s work and study permits. They haven’t had health care coverage for months due to these delays.
Organizations like Pathfinders for Ukraine are advocating for the federal government to extend work permits automatically for Ukrainians under the emergency program. Many individuals are facing difficulties accessing healthcare services without renewed permits, leading to job loss or insecurity in finding new employment.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has stated that Ukrainians who entered under the emergency program can apply for a new open work permit until March 2024. This permit would be valid for up to three years. Ukrainians who submit their applications before their current permits expire can legally continue working and studying while waiting for decisions.
However, for many, the uncertainty surrounding their immigration status is causing significant anxiety. Immigration lawyer Lev Abramovich points out that the lack of clear pathways to permanent residency adds to their distress. Although some have found success through provincial programmes or humanitarian grounds applications, options seem limited.
Randall Baran-Chong, director of Pathfinders for Ukraine, emphasises that families whose three-year permits are about to expire are left in a state of limbo, affecting children’s schooling and working parents’ job security. He is calling for the government to make permit extensions automatic, as the prevailing conflict shows no signs of resolution.
Despite the challenges, Canadian communities continue to support Ukrainians in need. Individuals like Cathy Locke, who opened her home to 14 Ukrainians, highlight the pressing need for stronger immigration pathways to ensure stability for those affected.
If you’re an international job seeker interested in exploring opportunities in Canada, be sure to check our website, VisaJobsCanada.com. Here, you’ll find numerous listings for jobs that offer visa sponsorship to international applicants, making your transition to work easier and more secure.
As you navigate the complexities of moving to Canada, remember that support is available, both from communities and dedicated organizations. The situation may be challenging, but Canada’s welcoming spirit continues to shine through difficult times.
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