2022-03-04-KPMG_Global-Canada_–_New_Immigration_Measures_for_Ukrainians_4页_378kb

GMS Flash Alert Summary: Canada - New Immigration Measures for Ukrainians

Core Content

On March 3, 2022, the Canadian government introduced two new immigration measures to support Ukrainians affected by the ongoing conflict in their country. These measures aim to facilitate the temporary and permanent relocation of Ukrainian nationals to Canada, reflecting the country's strong historical and cultural ties with Ukraine, which hosts the world's second-largest Ukrainian diaspora of 1.4 million people.

Main Immigration Measures

1. Expedited Emergency Visas

• Objective: Allow an unlimited number of Ukrainian nationals to enter Canada temporarily.
• Eligibility: All Ukrainian nationals are eligible, with no application limits.
• Work Permit: Applicants will be eligible for open work permits, easing the process for employers to hire them.
• Application Process: Simplified, requiring only an application form and biometrics for security and background checks.
• Duration: Temporary stay of up to two years.
• Fee Waivers: Most visa fees are waived, including those for visitor visas, work and study permits, and other immigration documents.
• Processing Time: Documents are prioritized and processed urgently, with some issued within 24 hours.

2. Special Family Reunification Sponsorship Pathway

• Objective: Provide an expedited route to permanent residency for Ukrainians wishing to reunite with family members already in Canada.
• Details: A new family sponsorship program is being introduced, with further information expected in the coming weeks.

Additional Support Measures

• Dedicated Service Channel: IRCC has set up a service line at +1-613-321-4243 for Ukraine-related immigration inquiries, with collect calls accepted.
• Keyword for Priority: Applicants can add “Ukraine2022” to the IRCC crisis web form to be prioritized.
• Entry for Unvaccinated Individuals: Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated Ukrainian nationals with valid temporary resident visas or permits are allowed to enter Canada.
• Remote Work Options: Many countries have implemented policies to assist displaced Ukrainians, including digital nomad visas and remote work opportunities.
• Administrative Deferral of Removals (ADR): ADR is in place for Ukrainians in Canada, delaying removal orders until the situation stabilizes. However, individuals deemed a security risk or involved in criminal activities may still be removed.

Key Considerations for Employers

• Evacuation Planning: Employers with operations in Ukraine should develop evacuation plans for both local and expatriate staff.
• Documentation Review: Identify Ukrainian nationals and review immigration options available to them.
• Consular Support: Utilize consular posts for emergency guidance and points of contact.
• Legal Assistance: KPMG Law LLP offers support in evaluating immigration options and identifying countries that accept Ukrainian workers without additional paperwork.

Contact Information

• Graeme Black
  Partner, Canadian Immigration
  KPMG Law LLP
  Tel: +1-416-943-7756
  Email: graemeblack@kpmg.ca

• Amira Zubairi
  Associate Canadian Immigration
  KPMG Law LLP
  Tel: +1-416-943-7889
  Email: amirazubairi@kpmg.ca

Footnotes

• The information is based on the March 3, 2022 News Release from the Canadian government.
• The document is published by KPMG Law LLP, a Canadian tax and immigration law firm affiliated with KPMG LLP.
• The U.S. firm of KPMG does not provide immigration or labor law services, but KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist with U.S. immigration matters.