**
As Russia’s war on Ukraine continues to disrupt lives, many Ukrainians in Canada find themselves in a precarious situation, lacking a clear path to permanent residency. Roksolana Kryshtanovych, a Toronto resident who fled her homeland, exemplifies the struggles faced by nearly 300,000 Ukrainians currently residing here under temporary permits.
A New Home Amidst Turmoil
Kryshtanovych’s journey to Canada was unplanned. Initially in Poland when the war broke out in 2022, her parents urged her not to return to Ukraine. When Canada opened its doors to those fleeing conflict, she seized the opportunity. Now settled in Toronto and employed in financial services, her aspirations for home ownership and family life are overshadowed by uncertainty regarding her residency status.
The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) programme, initiated as a response to the crisis, provided temporary work or study permits to those escaping the war. However, as the conflict drags on, many individuals like Kryshtanovych are beginning to feel the weight of their temporary status.
Government Response and Challenges
Immigration Minister Lena Diab has recognised that many CUAET holders have established lives in Canada, yet no definitive solutions have been put forth to address their residency concerns. In a recent statement, Diab noted, “We now know it’s not temporary. They’ve been here for X number of years, and for the most part, people are working, they’re building a life, you know, they have children and so on.”
Despite the government’s awareness, the complexities of immigration policy and the existing point-based system for permanent residency remain significant hurdles. Many Ukrainians struggle with the language test and the documentation required to apply, having fled a war zone with limited resources.
Advocacy for a Permanent Solution
Kryshtanovych is actively involved in the United Ukrainians for Canada Foundation, which has launched a letter-writing campaign urging Members of Parliament to create a dedicated permanent residency option for CUAET visa holders. Since the campaign began in September, over 25,000 letters have been sent, reflecting the urgent need for clarity and support.
The plight of families like Daria and Viktoria Vahina, also Ukrainian immigrants, highlights the emotional toll of living in limbo. Daria, who arrived in Canada nearly four years ago, expressed her frustration: “You cannot settle up your life, right? You cannot invest in anything.” This sentiment resonates deeply among those who have built lives in Canada but remain unsure of their legal status.
Limited Pathways and Future Prospects
While the government did introduce a limited pathway to permanent residency for some Ukrainians with family connections in Canada, many remain excluded. The Ukrainian Canadian Congress is advocating for broader access, estimating that around 100,000 individuals would seek permanent residency if given the chance.
The current immigration levels plan aims to reduce overall permanent resident admissions while prioritising economic migrants. This shift complicates matters for those who have contributed to the Canadian economy and community but lack formal recognition.
As the fourth anniversary of the war approaches, pressure mounts on the government to provide a viable solution for CUAET visa holders. Ontario Liberal MP Yvan Baker has sponsored a parliamentary petition advocating for a temporary permanent residency pathway, which has garnered over 45,000 signatures.
Why it Matters
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the plight of its displaced citizens present a moral imperative for Canada. As the country grapples with the complexities of immigration policy, the need for a compassionate and practical approach is more pressing than ever. Granting permanent residency to those like Kryshtanovych not only recognises their contributions to Canadian society but also affirms Canada’s commitment to humanitarian support in times of crisis. The future of these individuals—and the richness they bring to the Canadian tapestry—hinges on swift and decisive action from the government.
