New Business Immigration Measures: What Your Foreign Workers Need to Know

Crisis in Ukraine: Canada Welcomes Unlimited Number of Ukrainian Immigrants

In response to the conflict in Ukraine, Canada is introducing two new immigration pathways for Ukrainian nationals who wish to settle in Canada temporarily or permanently.

Canada-Ukraine Emergency Travel Authorization

Ukrainians wishing to settle in Canada temporarily will be able to obtain a Canada-Ukraine Emergency Travel Authorization. There will be no limit to the number of applications submitted, subject to background check and security screening, and stays in Canada may be authorized for a period of three years.

Expedited Family Reunification Sponsorship for Ukrainians

In addition, the IRCC will also implement a special expedited family reunification sponsorship program for immediate and extended family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

All Ukrainians who will enter Canada through these new measures will be able to apply for an open permit. These new measures complement those, which were already announced by the Canadian government last week, such as extension of the temporary public policy that lets some visitors in Canada, including Ukrainians, apply for a work permit from within Canada.

In addition, unvaccinated Ukrainian nationals may enter Canada provided they hold one of the following documents:

• Temporary resident visa (visitor visa);
• A temporary resident permit;
• Written notification that the application for permanent residence in Canada has been approved.

This also applies if the vaccine received is not currently recognized by Canada (WHO-approved).

Upon departure to and arrival in Canada, they will be required to meet all other public health requirements.

End of COVID Testing on Arrival in Canada for Fully Vaccinated Travellers

The Government of Canada has announced the end of COVID-negative testing for travellers entering Canada as of April 1, 2022, while random testing will continue to be conducted to monitor the emergence of new variants. This new measure applies to fully vaccinated travellers.

Partially vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers will be tested for COVID molecularly upon arrival in Canada on day 8 and while completing their 14-day quarantine.

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