Canada Strengthens Support for Ukrainians Overseas
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Expanded Services for Ukrainians in Need
The Canadian government remains committed to assisting Ukrainians and their families. Since initiating the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET), over 71,000 applications have been approved. To address questions from applicants and facilitate their transition, Canada is enhancing its services in Europe.
May 4, 2022—Warsaw, Poland—Canada has launched the Canada Information Centre (CI Centre) in Warsaw, offering in-person support to Ukrainian applicants. This center, co-located with the Canadian Biometric Operations Centre (CBOC), provides vital information in Ukrainian, English, and French about pre- and post-arrival services in Canada.
The Role of the Biometric Operations Centres
The CBOC, operational since April 19, 2022, was visited by the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. The center addresses the rising demand for biometric appointments for those applying to Canada. Additionally, a new temporary center in Berlin, Germany, aims to process up to 1,000 biometrics daily, enhancing overall capacity to approximately 6,600 appointments per day across the EU.
Support from Canadian and Polish Forces
Minister Fraser expressed gratitude to Canadian Armed Forces and Polish Defense Forces at refugee reception centers. Their efforts are crucial in aiding Ukrainians fleeing the ongoing conflict.
As Ukrainians bravely defend their nation, Canada pledges to offer safe refuge and ongoing support before, during, and after their arrival.
Statements from Canadian Leadership
“The launch of the Canada Information Centre enhances our ability to support Ukrainians and their families. We thank Poland for assisting our operations in Warsaw.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Details on Canada’s Support for Ukrainians
- The CUAET, launched on March 17, 2022, grants Ukrainians and their families the opportunity to reside in Canada for up to three years as temporary residents. They are eligible for free work or study permits.
- Settlement services are offered to Ukrainians arriving in Canada under CUAET, usually reserved for permanent residents.
- Available services include language training, information on life in Canada, labor market access assistance, community connection activities, and specialized services for various groups.
- The Canadian government collaborates with provinces, territories, and the Ukrainian Canadian community to ensure welcoming environments.
- From March 17 to April 26, 2022, over 180,000 CUAET applications were received, with more than 71,000 approvals. Key statistics are updated weekly.
- A dedicated service line at 613-321-4243 is available for Ukraine-related immigration inquiries, with the keyword “Ukraine2022” ensuring prioritization.
Further Information and Assistance
- Immigration measures for those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel
- Prepare to travel and settle in Canada
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
Contact Information
Media Contacts:
Aidan Strickland
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
aidan.strickland@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Learn More About Canada’s Efforts
Find more details by exploring keywords related to Government and Politics, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Canada, and Ukraine.
