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A Complete Guide For Ukrainians To Come To Canada Under CUAET

By lev abramovich.

At the onset of the invasion of Ukraine, the Canadian Government immediately began working to assist Ukrainians affected by the Russian invasion. Canada, having a 1.4 million Ukrainian diaspora, supported Ukraine’s fight for its independence and democracy.

In response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Government of Canada has launched the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET). The CUAET is a unique, special temporary residence pathway for Ukrainians affected by the invasion that allows them to work, study, and stay in Canada until it is safe for them to return home. All Ukrainian nationals and their family members (their spouses or common-law partners, their dependent children, and dependent children of their dependent children) are eligible to come to Canada under the CUAET.

Unlike other programs, the CUAET does not have a cap on the number of visitor visas, work permits, and study permits under this program. This temporary measure aims to help Ukrainians come to Canada temporarily and gain valuable Canadian work or education experience which can help set them up for their future permanent residency application.

IRCC eased the application process for Ukrainian nationals

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continue to process the increased volume of requests from Ukrainians. IRCC relocated staff, supplies, and equipment in Moldova, Romania, Poland, and Austria to increase operational readiness and provided them with mobile biometric kits to take fingerprints of Ukrainian nationals to help them meet the security and biometrics requirements and ease their travel to Canada.

Depending on the situation of applicants, Ukrainian citizens who have lost or do not have a passport can still get a temporary resident permit. For these applicants, IRCC will issue single journey travel documents on a case-by-case basis, where appropriate.

Special measures for Ukrainian citizens and temporary residents

Under the CUAET, Ukrainians and their immediate family members (of any nationality) may stay in Canada for up to 3 years under the new temporary residence pathway. Ukrainian citizens applying from Ukraine or abroad must apply online for a Canadian visitor visa and provide their biometrics. Ukrainian citizens can give biometrics at any visa application centre (VAC) outside of Ukraine as VACs in Kyiv and Lviv are temporarily closed. The Canadian Government encourages all Ukrainians to apply for a 3-year open work permit at the same time as their visitor visa application to be eligible to work in Canada. For standard, non-complex applications, the CUAET will facilitate the rapid processing of electronic visa applications of Ukrainian nationals within 2 weeks of receipt of a complete application. All Ukrainian applicants will have to undergo standard background checks and be screened before coming into Canada.

The Government of Canada has waived many regular requirements associated with a normal visitor visa or work permit for Ukrainians to ease the application process. Ukrainian children may register for elementary or high school and start attending it as soon as they arrive in Canada. Those who want to obtain a post-secondary education may apply for a study permit once they are in Canada.

Ukrainian citizens who are currently in Canada on a temporary resident visa can either extend their visitor status, study, or work permit for 3 years, or apply for an open work permit.

The Government of Canada aims to help Ukrainian citizens and their family members to come to Canada as quickly and as safely as possible by adjusting operations in offices across the global network. To ease the burden on Ukrainian applicants, IRCC has waived all application and extension fees, including the visa application fee and biometric collection fee.

IRCC will urgently process travel documents for Ukrainian-Canadians, permanent residents, and their immediate family members and prioritize and fast-track the processing of citizenship grants for adoptions, and permanent and temporary residence applications. In addition, the Government will also prioritize the renewal of work and study permit applications from Ukrainians currently in Canada.

Ukrainians coming to Canada are also exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements. However, they still must meet all other public health requirements for travel, quarantine, and get tested if needed. All Ukrainian travellers to Canada also must use ArriveCAN and provide all required information.

Ukrainian applicants have been exempted from completing an immigration medical exam (IME). However, they can be requested to complete and pay for an IME within 3 months of arrival in Canada to screen for reportable communicable diseases if they applied and received an open work permit.

Family reunification sponsorship pathway for Ukrainian citizens

Canada recognizes that some family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents may want to start a new life in Canada. Currently, IRCC is developing a special family reunification sponsorship pathway for permanent residence for Ukrainian-Canadian’s immediate and extended family members. However, the details of this pathway have not been released yet and will only be available in the coming weeks.

Possible transitions to permanent residency

There are a few cases that allow Ukrainian nationals to obtain permanent residency (PR) after coming to Canada.

• Sponsorship programs: Canadian citizens and permanent residents 18 years old and above can sponsor certain relatives to come to Canada.
• Special sponsorship program for Ukrainian citizens: Canadian citizens and permanent residents 18 years old and above can sponsor their immediate family members (spouse, common-law partner, and dependent child) affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This pathway, most likely, will be similar to the pathway for PR to the Afghan family members of Canadians.
• Economic pathways: Skilled Ukrainian nationals can immigrate to Canada and obtain a PR via economic programs after arriving in Canada. Those who meet the eligibility requirements can apply for PR immediately, while Ukrainians who do not have enough experience can apply after working in Canada for at least one year.
• Humanitarian and compassionate grounds: in some specific cases, Ukrainian citizens can also ask for humanitarian and compassionate grounds to obtain permanent resident status in Canada. Humanitarian and compassionate grounds apply to individuals with exceptional cases, and the applications submitted under this pathway are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

What can Ukrainian citizens do to come to Canada?

• To come to Canada, first, Ukrainian nationals have to apply for a visitor visa under CUAET and acquire an open work permit. Obtaining a work permit is an essential part of the application process since it enables the applicant to work in Canada and then apply for PR. After starting work, applicants must begin thinking of getting medical coverage. Eligibility requirements vary across the provinces. It is expected that the provincial governments will provide medical coverage for Ukrainian citizens coming to Canada under CUAET, however, the official clarifications are expected to be published later in April.
• Since the Canadian Government has not announced all measures for Ukrainian nationals, they can wait for new news to be announced. More measures are expected to be launched in the coming weeks.
• Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their elderly relatives under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). The application process for the PGP 2022 has not been determined yet. This year, IRCC aims to invite 25,000 immigrants under the PGP.
• If a Ukrainian national cannot stay in Canada under any programs, he/she can consider applying for permanent resident status based on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. IRCC will not look at requests submitted on humanitarian and compassionate grounds from temporary resident applicants. Only those applying for a PR can consider this program.

Pros and Cons of Making a Refugee Claim

Currently, many Ukrainian nationals think about making a refugee claim after coming to Canada. However, according to the Government of Canada, the CUAET is not a refugee immigration stream. Thus, before making a claim, applicants must carefully think about all other possible ways. Both those Ukrainians in Canada who are on work or study permits and those abroad must consider that they will not obtain refugee status immediately after making a claim. According to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, the average processing time for refugee claims is 24 months. Since the current situation in Ukraine can drastically change over that time, refugee claims made by Ukrainian citizens can be rejected. We recommend not to make a refugee claim for now as it deprives your temporary resident status and makes you unable to apply for a PR through other immigration pathways. Moreover, the only cases with good chances for success are only those ones, where the Ukrainian authorities persecuted Ukrainian nationals for political, religious, ethnic, or other reasons. The persecution must be well documented, and the evidence will be required for the application.

After arriving in Canada

Starting in early April 2022, the Canadian Red Cross will provide arrival services at the Toronto, Edmonton, and Vancouver international airports, providing translation services, as well as information in newcomers’ language of choice to help them connect with government and community services. In addition, the Government of Canada continues working closely with provinces and territories to support Ukrainians arriving in Canada. Currently, settlement services are delivered through more than 550 agencies across the country. Moreover, the Canadian Government will provide the Ukrainian newcomers with language training programs, information about life in Canada, services to help access the labour market, activities that promote connections with communities, services targeted to the needs of women, seniors, youth, and LGBTQ2+ persons, and other settlement supports. We will continue to make updates on the latest developments on this issue. If you are a Ukrainian citizen who wants to come to Canada, please do not hesitate to contact Abramovich Immigration Lawyers.

Lev Abramovich

Related posts, understanding the ircc’s humanitarian and compassionate applications for permanent residency.

Humanitarian & Compassionate Applications For Canadian Permanent Residence

Navigating canada’s temporary public policy for ukrainian nationals: a pathway to permanent residency, canada calls for ukrainians to apply to come to canada, ready to get started and talk to a lawyer.

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Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET)

IRCC’s announced today that it is launching the CUAET as the new accelerated pathway for temporary residence for Ukrainians fleeing war. Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members (regardless of nationality) can apply to enter Canada as temporary residents for up to 3 years. Here are some key takeaways from this latest announcement:

3-year open Work Permits will be granted to any Ukrainian applicants who makes the application, whether in Canada or abroad;

Note: we strongly recommend applying for a Work Permit or Study Permit as it provides access to healthcare

Study Permits can be applied for once in Canada;

All government application fees are being waived;

Biometrics are still required, meaning the applicant will have to be outside Ukraine as there are no biometrics collections possible inside the country at this time;

Priority processing & fast-tracking of applications;

Ukrainians without passports can apply for a single journey travel document;

New “Jobs for Ukraine” service on the Canada Job Bank website to allow Canadian employers to offer jobs specifically to Ukrainians, and to allow Ukrainian job seekers to submit a webform to self-identify to prospective employers;

Full news release: Canada launches new temporary residence pathway to welcome those fleeing the war in Ukraine - Canada.ca

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Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) | Get In Canada

Canada has launched new pathway to help ukrainians to come to canada., the cuaet is a special, accelerated temporary residence pathway for ukrainians seeking safe haven in canada while the war in their home country continues..

we stand with you—not only in our words, but also in our actions. Canada will offer safe haven to your families while you fight on the front lines of a war to defend your freedom to the benefit of the entire world.

– Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship of Canada

With the CUAET, Ukrainians and their immediate family members of any nationality may stay in Canada as temporary residents for up to 3 years. Applicants who are overseas need to apply online for a Canadian visitor visa and provide their biometrics (fingerprints and a photo). Applicants are encouraged to apply for a 3-year open work permit at the same time as their visa application. This permit will allow them to work in Canada. Under this special program, many of the regular requirements associated with a normal visitor visa or work permit have been waived. Elementary and high school students can register for and start attending school as soon as they arrive in Canada, and anyone looking to study at the post-secondary level can apply for a study permit once on Canadian soil.

Applicants who do not have a valid passport may still apply, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will issue a single journey travel document on a case-by-case basis, where appropriate.

Ukrainian workers, students and visitors and their family members who are already in Canada also benefit from these measures. They may either apply to extend their visitor status or work permit for 3 years, apply for a new work or study permit, or extend their existing permit. IRCC will waive all extension and work or study permit application fees.

Ukrainians and their family members are exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements. However, they must still meet all other  public health requirements for travel , such as quarantine and testing. With limited exceptions, all travellers to Canada, including anyone arriving under the CUAET.

Want to know more about the CUAET ? APPLY NOW! →

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Canada launches special temporary residence pathway for Ukrainians

On March 17, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the launch of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET), an accelerated temporary residence pathway for Ukrainians fleeing war.

Ukrainians and their immediate family members of any nationality may stay in Canada for up to three years. Overseas applicants need to apply online for a visitor visa and provide their biometrics .

The Canadian government encourages CUAET applicants to apply for a three-year open work permit at the same time as their visa application. This will allow them to work in Canada for any employer.

Learn about Canada’s immigration system

Under this special program, Canada has waived many of the regular requirements associated with visitor visas and work permits. Elementary and high school students can attend high school as soon as they arrive in Canada. Anyone looking to study at the post-secondary level can apply for a study permit once they land in Canada.

Applicants who do not have a valid passport may still apply. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will issue a single journey travel document on a case-by-case basis, where appropriate.

The new measures include benefits for Ukrainian workers, students and visitors and their family members who are already in Canada. Ukrainians in Canada may either apply to extend their visitor status or work permit for three years, apply for a new work or study permit, or extend their existing permit. IRCC will also waive all extension and work or study permit application fees.

Canadian employers who wish to support Ukrainians with offers of employment to register these offers on Job Bank’s Jobs for Ukraine webpage . Job Bank will then work with local organizations and employers to help connect them with Ukrainians seeking work in their communities.

The Canadian government is also in discussions with provinces and territories, the business community, the Ukrainian-Canadian community and settlement organizations, on how best to support those arriving from Ukraine. IRCC will continue to monitor volumes of travellers and their needs closely and will take action as required.

Ukrainians and their family members are exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements, but they must still meet all other public health requirements for travel, such as quarantine and testing. Anyone arriving under the CUAET must use ArriveCAN to upload their travel documents before arrival.

The CUAET was originally announced in early March , with the goal to simplify and speed up the immigration process to Canada by allowing Ukrainian nationals to apply directly online.

In addition to this new pathway, Canada is also expected to announce in the coming weeks the details of a special family reunification sponsorship pathway. This will allow Ukrainian nationals to reunite with their immediate and extended family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents and settle in Canada permanently.

Since the beginning of the crisis in Ukraine, Canada has undertaken a number of immigration related efforts to enable Ukrainians to seek refuge in the country. These efforts include faster processing, extensions and fee waivers for immigration documents and applications. As part of its response to the crisis in Ukraine, Canada has announced $117 million in funding to implement all of these special immigration measures aimed at expediting the arrival of Ukrainians.

With the situation in Ukraine becoming increasingly critical, several organizations and political parties are now also calling on the Canadian government to organize chartered flights to facilitate the arrival of Ukrainians. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau does not reject this possibility. The prime minister said at a press briefing Wednesday that if there is enough demand Canada will respond with extra measures.

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Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET)

On March 17, 2022 the federal government created the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program to help Ukrainians fleeing the invasion of their country, to travel to Canada. There are several very generous features to this program:

• It covers Ukrainian nationals and their spouse, common-law partner, children, and in very limited cases, grandchildren, even if the family member is not a Ukrainian national themselves.
• There are no filing fees.
• Ukrainian nationals and their family members as described above may apply for a three year visitor visa.
• Ukrainian nationals and their family members as described above may also apply for a three year open work permit while applying for the visitor visa.
• Even unvaccinated people will be allowed to travel to Canada. They will still be subject to testing and quarantine upon entry.
• Children will be allowed to study at a Canadian elementary or secondary school, probably without a special permit. Those who wish to study at college or university will be allowed to apply for a study permit after they arrive in Canada.
• These rules extend to Ukrainians and their family members as described above, who are already in Canada.
• Applicants will still need to provide biometrics before they are allowed to travel to Canada. "Biometrics" means that they will have to attend at a private company called a "Visa Application Centre" (VAC) to be fingerprinted and photographed. The biometrics are digitalized and compared to a database. This step is to weed out people who have a criminal record or may be a security risk.
• Some of the people who have fled Ukraine will not have a valid Ukrainian passport in their possession. The Canadian government will in some cases issue them a single use Canadian Travel Document.

This situation is evolving. This is all that is known at this time. We are also promised a special program to allow Canadian citizens or Canadian permanent residents to sponsor some members of their family for permanent residence. No details are yet known about this program.

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Permanent residence pathway for Ukrainians in Canada

Ukrainian nationals who are physically present in Canada, with a valid temporary residence (visitor, work permit, study permit) status may be eligible to apply for PR under a new temporary public policy if they have a family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. PR applications are being accepted under this new policy starting October 23, 2023. Applications will close on October 22, 2024.

Eligibility criteria for pathway for Ukrainians in Canada

The following applicants and their eligible family members may qualify to apply for permanent residence in Canada:

Category 1: Family member of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in Canada

To be eligible for PR under this category, you must:

• Be a Ukrainian national.
• Be the spouse, common-law partner, child, grandchild, parent, grandparent, or sibling (or half-sibling) of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Be physically present in Canada both when you submit your application and when you receive PR.
• Hold valid temporary resident status (visitor, work permit, study permit) in Canada, or if your status expired less than 90 days ago, have applied to restore it.
• Have a valid passport, travel document, or supporting documents.
• Submit a signed declaration (IMM 0191) from your Canadian family member verifying your relationship to them.
• Be admissible to Canada.

Moreover, the family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident must be over the age of 18, live in Canada, and not have received PR under the same policy.

Category 2: Spouse or common-law partner of a Ukrainian national with family in Canada

To be eligible for PR under this category, you must be the spouse or common-law partner of a Ukrainian national.

You can only apply under this category if your spouse or common-law partner :

• Is unable to leave Ukraine, missing, dead or presumed dead.
• Is the child, grandchild, parent, grandparent, or sibling (or half-sibling) of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

The applicant must :

• Not have remarried or been in a common-law relationship with someone else since leaving Ukraine.
• Submit a signed declaration (IMM 0191) from your spouse or common-law partner’s Canadian family member explaining your relationship to them.

Moreover, your spouse or common-law partner’s family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident must be over the age of 18, live in Canada, and not have received PR under the same policy.

Family members of Ukrainian nationals who can be included on Canadian PR applications

If you qualify under the temporary PR policy for Ukrainians in Canada, some of your family members may be eligible to immigrate to Canada with you, provided they are not inadmissible to Canada for medical, criminal, or security reasons. Even if your eligible family members are not immigrating to Canada with you at present, you must include them on your application.

The following family members may be eligible to be included on your permanent residence application:

• Your spouse or common-law partner
• Your dependent child: A dependent child is defined as a child under the age of 22 who does not have a spouse or common-law partner OR a child over 22 years of age who cannot support themselves financially because of a physical or mental condition and who has depended on you for financial support since before they were 22.
• Your grandchild (dependent child of a dependent child)

Your family members do not need to be in Canada (only the primary applicant must be in Canada).

How to apply for PR as a Ukrainian national with family in Canada

Step 1 : check your eligibility, step 2 : apply online.

Create a Permanent Residence online application portal account , sign in, and select “Other” as the program you’re applying under.

Select the category as Ukraine Family Reunification Public Policy , if you plan to reside outside of Quebec or Ukraine Family Reunification Public Policy QC , if you plan to reside in Quebec.

Step 3 : Fill out your application

Step 4 : pay the application fees online.

This will include a processing fee and Right of Permanent Residence Fee (total $1,085 per adult individual) and biometrics fee (if required. $85 for an individual or $170 for a family).

Step 5 : Submit your application

You’ll need to digitally sign your application and attach all your supporting documents including the payment receipt before submitting the application.

Step 6 : Provide biometrics

You and your family members may need to submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at a biometric collection centre. You must do this within 30 days of receiving the biometrics request letter.

Step 6 : Wait for your PR application to be approved

Once you submit your application, you will receive an acknowledgement of receipt (AOR). If you’re eligible for PR, you may be asked to submit additional documents, undergo medical exams or background checks, and provide your biometrics. If you intend to live in Quebec, your application will be referred to the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration du Québec (MIFI).

If your PR application is approved, IRCC will contact you to:

• Confirm the information on your application.
• Ask you to pay the Right of Permanent Residence Fee, if you haven’t already.
• Verify that all your documents are valid.
• Confirm your permanent residence status online.

Once your PR status is confirmed, you will receive an electronic Confirmation of Permanent Residence (e-COPR) in the PR confirmation portal. You’ll be asked to provide a photograph so that your PR card can be issued. Until you receive your PR card in the mail, your e-COPR will serve as proof of your permanent residence status in Canada.

Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET)

The Canadian government created the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) for individuals from Ukraine who wish to move to Canada temporarily. 

The CUAET is an expedited temporary residence pathway through which Ukrainians and their immediate family members (including those with a different nationality) can stay in Canada as temporary residents for up to three years. To be considered an immediate family member, you must be the spouse, common-law partner, dependent child, or dependent child of a dependent child of a Ukrainian national.

Under this program, Ukrainians who are already in Canada on study permits, work permits, or visitor visas will also be able to extend their legal status in Canada and continue working, studying, or staying in Canada temporarily. There will be no limit to the number of Ukrainian nationals who can apply through this extended pathway.

As of October 23, 2023, Ukrainians already in Canada on temporary permits may also be eligible to apply for PR if they have a close family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Eligibility criteria for the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel pathway

The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel pathway is a safe, efficient way for Ukrainians to apply for temporary expedited visas. Until July 15, 2023, individuals in the below categories were eligible to apply for temporary residence in Canada under the CUAET:

You are a Ukrainian national currently outside Canada

You can apply if you have a valid Ukrainian passport or national identity document. You may still be able to qualify if you don’t possess these documents, provided a visa officer determines that you meet the requirements.

You are a family member of a Ukrainian national

You can apply if you are the spouse, common-law partner, dependent child, or dependent child of a dependent child of a Ukrainian national and are not in Canada. You must be able to prove your family relationship (with documents such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or a shared home address), have a valid passport, and require a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to come to Canada. If you are from an eTA-required country, you’ll need to apply and pay for an eTA for Canada.

You are a Ukrainian national or family member with a valid visitor visa or eTA for Canada

You can travel to Canada on your existing documents and, upon arrival, extend your stay as a visitor or apply for a work or study permit without paying a fee.

You are a Ukrainian national or family member already in Canada on a work permit, study permit, or visitor visa

You must have a valid Ukrainian passport or be able to prove your family relationship with a Ukrainian national. You can apply to extend your status as a visitor or worker for up to three more years or until your passport expires. If you’re in Canada as a student, you can extend your study permit and status for the duration of your studies.

How does the CUAET work?

Under the CUAET, Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members can receive a visitor visa to come to Canada temporarily, until it is safe to return to Ukraine. You will also be given the option of applying for a fee-exempt work permit. The fee-exempt visitor visa will be: 

• Valid for 10 years or until your passport expires. 
• A multiple entry visa (you can travel in and out of Canada, with a maximum stay of three years at a time).

When you arrive in Canada, you’ll be given status as a visitor, worker (if you’ve applied for an open work permit), or student (if you’re under 18 years of age and wish to study). You can apply to extend your stay when your status in Canada is about to expire.

Ukrainian nationals and their family members who already have a valid visitor visa or eTA, or require an eTA to travel to Canada will be able to:

• Extend their stay in Canada as a visitor for up to three years or until their passport expires.
• Apply for a fee-exempt work permit on arrival.
• Apply for a fee-exempt study permit on arrival, if they are under 18 years of age.

Fees being waived under the CUAET

To make it easier for Ukrainians to travel to Canada, the government waived the following fees for Ukrainians and their family members:

• Temporary resident visa fees.
• Temporary resident permit fees.
• Fees for extension of temporary residence status (also known as visitor record).
• Study permit and study permit extension fees.
• Work permit and work permit extension fees (including for open work permits).
• Biometrics fee.

You’ll still need to pay for a medical exam if you’re required to take one to travel to Canada. In addition, visitors who require an eTA to travel to Canada will need to pay a fee to get one.

For Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are in Ukraine or have left Ukraine and are in another country on their way to Canada, the following fees are also being waived:

• Permanent resident travel document fees.
• Canadian citizenship certificate fees (including fee for replacements).
• Emergency travel document fees.
• Replacement fee for lost or stolen passports.
• Passport pick-up fees.
• Temporary Canadian passport fees.

Financial assistance under CUAET

Starting June 2, 2022, Ukrainians who have moved to Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel on a valid work permit, study permit, or temporary residence permit will be entitled to a one-time cash payment to help them settle in Canada.

Each eligible adult can receive $3,000 and children aged 17 and under will be entitled to receive $1,500. This one-time financial assistance amount will be non-taxable.

How to get a one-time cash benefit under CUAET

You may be eligible to receive financial assistance from the Canadian government if you meet all of the following criteria:

• You are already in Canada.
• You were approved under CUAET.
• You have a Canadian bank account.

To apply for financial assistance, follow the below steps:

Step 1: Open a Canadian bank account

You must have a Canadian bank account to receive your cash payment in your account through direct deposit. To open your bank account , you will require:

• Your temporary resident status document (IMM 1442), which is your visitor record, work permit, study permit, or temporary residence permit. Your IMM 1442 form should mention that you’ve been authorized under CUAET.
• Your passport.

Step 2: Apply for financial assistance

Fill out the online form to apply for financial assistance . You can submit this form for yourself and for your dependents.

You will be asked to provide your Unique Client Identifier (UCI) number and your temporary resident document number. In addition, to receive the direct deposit, you’ll also need your bank’s transit number and institution number, and your bank account number.

Make note of the confirmation number you receive. Once your application is approved, the government will make the payment to your account by direct deposit within five business days after you apply. (It may take 3-5 additional days for the funds to reach your account.)

For Ukrainians who want to move to Canada permanently under the Family Sponsorship program

Ukrainian nationals who are not currently in Canada but have immediate family members in Canada may be eligible to apply for permanent residence under the family sponsorship program .

Your family sponsorship program application will be expedited if it meets all the following criteria:

• The sponsor a Canadian citizen , permanent resident or person registered under the Indian Act of Canada.
• The individual being sponsored is a Ukrainian national outside Canada.
• The application is for the sponsor’s dependent child (including adopted children), spouse, or common-law or conjugal partner. 

PR applications that have been filed by Ukrainians under other immigration streams will also be prioritized.

For Ukrainians who are already in Canada on temporary visas

Ukrainian nationals who are already in Canada as international students, temporary foreign workers, or visitors but do not meet the eligibility criteria for the PR pathway introduced in October 2023 can extend their study permit , work permit , or visitor status from within Canada on a priority basis. 

You may be eligible to extend your status if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You have a valid visitor status or have a study permit or work permit.
• You’ve applied to extend your status before it expires.
• You’re eligible to restore your status in Canada.

Extend your stay as a visitor in Canada under the CUAET

Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members who are currently in Canada with a valid temporary resident status can extend their stay as a visitor. Use the following steps to extend your stay:

• You must apply for a visitor record before your current status expires. Be sure to check your passport or visitor record to confirm how long your status is valid.
• Complete the online application . Select “Yes” when asked if your application is fee-exempt.
• In the IMM 5708, under “Details of visit to Canada”, select your purpose of visit as “Other” and write “UKRAINE 2022” in the “Other” box. This will ensure that your application is processed on priority.

Extend your stay in Canada as a student under the CUAET

Ukrainian nationals and their family members in Canada may be eligible to extend their stay in Canada as a student. To extend your status as an international student:

• Create or sign in to your IRCC account and fill out your online application .
• To qualify for the study permit processing fee exemption and priority processing, in the tuition payment section of your application, select “other” for “expenses paid” and write “UKRAINE 2022” in the description box.

Applying for a work permit under the CUAET if you’re already in Canada

To apply for a work permit under this public policy, you must:

• Have a valid visitor status in Canada on the day you apply for a work permit, have applied to extend your status before its expiry, or be eligible to restore your status.
• Create an online IRCC account or sign in to your existing account to start an application for a work permit. 
• Click “Apply to come to Canada” and on the next page, scroll down to the “I do not have a personal reference code” section. Click on “Visitor visa, study and/or work permit” and select “Work.”
• Answer “Work” for the “What would you like to do in Canada?” question.
• Select “Temporarily – more than 6 months” for the “How long are you planning to stay in Canada?” question.
• For the “What is your immigration status in Canada?” question, select “Worker”.
• Select “No, I am exempt from paying fees for the application” when asked if you’ll be paying fees or if you are fee-exempt.
• Fill out the application form after you receive your document checklist. In the section on details of intended work in Canada, select “Open Work Permit.” Enter “UKRAINE 2022” as the job title and “Ukraine 2022 public policy – open work permit” in the brief description of the duties field. Once the form is complete, you can upload your documents and submit your application.
• Meet all other standard criteria for admission into Canada, including getting a medical exam if required.

For Canadian citizens or permanent residents returning from Ukraine to Canada

The government is prioritizing the processing of new or replacement passports and travel documents for Canadian citizens and permanent residents, as well as their families, who are currently in Ukraine and wish to return to Canada.

Immediate family members of Canadian citizens and PR holders who don’t have valid passports will be provided with single-journey travel documents so they can come to Canada safely and quickly.

You can contact the government by phone at +1-613-321-4243 (collect calls will be accepted).

Contact the government if you’re impacted by the situation in Ukraine

If you’ve been impacted by the Ukraine crisis or have questions about submitting an application to come to Canada, you can contact the government directly through their web form . 

To ensure that your request is prioritized, use the “Tell us about your situation” section to describe your situation and the help you require and add the keyword UKRAINE2022 at the end of your description. You can also contact the government by phone at +1-613-321-4243 (collect calls will be accepted).

Things our lawyers want you to know

This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

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Disclaimer: This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

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Diocesan news portal, canada launches new temporary residence pathway to welcome those fleeing the war in ukraine.

Posted By: Kiply Lukan Yaworski March 18, 2022

News release from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

[Ottawa- March 17, 2022] – In response to Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, March 17 announced the launch of the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) – a special, accelerated temporary residence pathway for Ukrainians seeking safe haven in Canada while the war in their home country continues.

With the CUAET, Ukrainians and their immediate family members of any nationality may stay in Canada as temporary residents for up to 3 years.

Applicants who are overseas need to apply online for a Canadian visitor visa and provide their biometrics (fingerprints and a photo). Applicants are encouraged to apply for a 3-year open work permit at the same time as their visa application. This permit will allow them to work in Canada.

Under this special program, many of the regular requirements associated with a normal visitor visa or work permit have been waived. Elementary and high school students can register for and start attending school as soon as they arrive in Canada, and anyone looking to study at the post-secondary level can apply for a study permit once on Canadian soil.

Applicants who do not have a valid passport may still apply, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will issue a single journey travel document on a case-by-case basis, where appropriate.

Ukrainian workers, students and visitors and their family members who are already in Canada also benefit from these measures. They may either apply to extend their visitor status or work permit for 3 years, apply for a new work or study permit, or extend their existing permit. IRCC will waive all extension and work or study permit application fees.

To ease the burden on applicants, IRCC is waiving all application fees for these programs.

The Government of Canada is also calling on employers who wish to support Ukrainians with offers of employment to register these offers on the Job Bank Jobs for Ukraine webpage . Job Bank will then work with local organizations and employers to help connect them with Ukrainians seeking work in their communities.

IRCC is also in discussions with partners, including provinces and territories, the business community, the Ukrainian-Canadian community and settlement organizations, on how best to support those arriving from Ukraine, and more information will be available soon. IRCC will continue to monitor volumes of travellers and their needs closely and will take action as required.

Ukrainian Canadian Congress – UCC Saskatchewan is creating databases for individuals, organizations businesses wishing to offer their help through accommodations, employment, or as volunteers, in the below electronic forms. Please note that due to the overwhelming response, the UCC will likely not respond to you immediately, but will follow up as the displaced Ukrainians begin to arrive to our province in the coming weeks and months. Links to more information: Host Registration Business Support Volunteer Registration  For more information please contact: UCC Saskatchewan Ukraine Support Committee 1.888.652.5850 or [email protected] 

IRCC is working around the clock to help Ukrainians and their families get to Canada as quickly and as safely as possible. IRCC is already prioritizing and fast-tracking applications, and waiving application and processing fees. IRCC has increased its operational capacity in the region, in anticipation of an increased volume of requests. This includes relocating staff and moving additional supplies and equipment, such as mobile biometric collection kits. We are also adjusting operations in offices across our global network to ensure service continuity for Ukraine.

Ukrainians and their family members are exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements. However, they must still meet all other  public health requirements for travel , such as quarantine and testing. With limited exceptions, all travellers to Canada, including anyone arriving under the CUAET, must also use ArriveCAN.

The CUAET and Job Bank will be instrumental in supporting the Government of Canada’s response to Vladimir Putin’s brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Most importantly, these measures help us do our part to welcome more Ukrainians to Canada.

“To the Ukrainians who are defending the values we hold dear, we stand with you—not only in our words, but also in our actions. Canada will offer safe haven to your families while you fight on the front lines of a war to defend your freedom to the benefit of the entire world.” – Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“As brave Ukrainians fight for their lives and their freedom, Canada is ready to welcome their loved ones who are forced to flee. When they arrive safely in Canada, we’re going to help Ukrainians find work and so they can provide for themselves and their families. From ensuring that children can enroll in school to helping parents join our workforce, we want every Ukrainian to find peace, stability, and community in Canada.” – Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion

Quick facts

• Visa applications can be submitted online from anywhere in the world. Biometrics can be given at any visa application centre (VAC) outside of Ukraine. VACs are open in Moldova, Romania, Austria and Poland, and there is an extensive VAC network across Europe.
• In addition to our pre-existing VAC network, IRCC has been working to set up additional biometrics collection locations and increased capacity at existing ones as demand requires such as in Chisinau. For example, additional biometric capacity has been added to the Visa Application network and missions in Warsaw, as well as to Vienna and Bucharest. Clients should visit the VAC website to find the closest service point.
• For standard cases, the CUAET will facilitate the rapid processing of electronic visa applications within 14 days of receipt of a complete application.
• All visa applicants will undergo standard background checks and be carefully screened before coming into Canada.
• The CUAET is a temporary residence pathway and is not a refugee stream.
• Those wishing to immigrate to Canada permanently can apply for permanent residence under a variety of different immigration programs and streams . IRCC is also developing a special permanent residence stream for family reunification.
• IRCC established a dedicated service channel for Ukraine immigration enquiries available for clients both in Canada and abroad at 613-321-4243 , with collect calls accepted. Clients can add the keyword “ Ukraine2022 ” to the IRCC crisis web form with their enquiry and it will be prioritized.
• Employers wishing to support Ukrainians through offers of employment can register available jobs using Job Bank’s Jobs for Ukraine webpage . Job Bank is a free, bilingual website that provides access for employers to thousands of potential employees and offers a free and secure space for job posting.
• Avoid becoming a victim of fraud. There is no fee to be considered for the CUAET for Ukrainians and their family members. Only the Government of Canada can request personal information or decide your eligibility for the CUAET. There are no agents or consultants acting on our behalf.
• Special measures for Ukrainians will not impact the processing of refugee applications. IRCC remains steadfast in its commitment to welcoming individuals through our government-assisted and privately sponsored refugee programs, including welcoming at least 40,000 Afghan refugees.

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How to Apply for the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel

• Post Author: Maria Reisdorf
• Post published: March 22, 2022
• Post Category: Temporary Residence

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How do i apply for the canada-ukraine authorization for emergency travel program, how do i get a work or study permit, how do i provide my biometrics, what if i don’t have a passport, what kind of documents do i need to apply, do i need to be vaccinated against covid-19, what if i’m already in canada, can i stay in canada longer than 3 years.

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Ukraine – CUAET: Overseas, ports of entry and in-Canada applications for an open work permit

This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.

The Prime Minister announced on February 23, 2022 , that the Government of Canada has taken a strong stance against Russia’s attack on Ukraine and is committed to helping Ukrainian nationals and their family members overseas and in Canada.

As per the Minister’s announcement on March 22, 2023 , the Government of Canada had extended the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) via public policy . This means that

• Ukrainians and their family members had until July 15, 2023, to apply overseas for a CUAET visa free of charge
• anyone holding a CUAET visa will have until March 31, 2024, to travel to Canada under the special measures
• CUAET holders who are already in Canada will have until March 31, 2024, to extend or adjust their temporary status through these measures, free of charge

These program delivery instructions inform IRCC and Canada Border Services Agency staff on how to process overseas and in-Canada applications for a work permit under the CUAET for Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members.

On this page

Policy objectives, eligibility requirements for ukrainian nationals, eligibility requirements for family members, issuing an overseas work permit, issuing an in-canada open work permit (owp).

• Issuing a port of entry (POE) work permit

Non-compliance

This public policy

• permitted Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members to apply for a temporary resident visa (TRV) or OWP from overseas
• enables eligible Ukrainians, and their immediate family members with valid temporary resident status in Canada to apply for a fee-exempt OWP from within Canada
• exempts eligible foreign nationals from the requirement that they be denied a work permit if they have not complied with certain temporary residence conditions

To be eligible for an OWP, foreign nationals must meet the following requirements:

• They must be a national of Ukraine and be 14 years of age or older.

If outside of Canada, they must have submitted an application for a temporary resident visa under the CUAET on or before July 15, 2023.

If they are in Canada, they must have valid temporary resident status [which includes maintained status under subsection 183(5) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR)] or be eligible to restore their temporary resident status under the IRPR.

• They must have submitted an OWP application under section R200 or subsection R201(1).
• They must have submitted their work permit application using electronic means (online) unless exempted by a regulation.

Ukrainian nationals and their family members who may already have authorization to work in Canada are eligible to apply for a new OWP through this measure.

Important : The department is aware of the difficulty and delays Ukrainian clients are experiencing with renewing their passports. All clients in Canada must apply to extend their status, ideally before the expiry date of their current work or study permit, so they can continue working or studying on maintained status until a decision is made on their application. Officers can request a written explanation of the applicant’s circumstances to accompany their application if it is not possible for them to renew their passport before the one tied to their current work or study permit expires. Officers may request a copy of the applicant’s old passport and a letter explaining that they have applied to get their passport extended, and that they will submit their new passport as soon as it’s received.

To be eligible for an OWP, the foreign national must

• a spouse or common-law partner
• a dependent child of the principal applicant or principal applicant’s spouse or common-law partner and who is 14 years of age or older
• a dependent child of the dependent child and who is 14 years of age or older
• be in Canada with valid temporary resident status [which includes maintained status under R183(5)] or be eligible to restore their temporary resident status under the IRPR
• have submitted their work permit application using electronic means (online) unless exempted by a regulation.

Under the CUAET measures, Ukrainian nationals and their family members who are 14 years of age or older and outside Canada are eligible to apply for a fee-exempt OWP, valid for up to 3 years (or to passport validity, whichever comes first).

To facilitate the application process, a yes or no question has been added to the TR eApp to ask clients whether they would like to apply for an OWP.

Note: The client’s answer to this question will appear in the GCMS in the following location: IMM > TR > Online > Client provided data view.

If a client selects “Yes,” the following steps will need to be taken:

If the TRV application is approved

• The “counterfoil required” box must be unchecked on the OWP so only one counterfoil is issued.
• The OWP must be finalized.

If the TRV application is refused

• The refusal letter must be sent from the TRV application.
• The OWP should be left open in the event that the client reapplies.
• If the client is not issued a TRV or TRP within the following 60 days, the OWP application must be reviewed and finalized.

If a TRP is issued

• The original OWP must be finalized.
• The application will be automatically created in the GCMS as an OWP application, with the “counterfoil required” box checked.

Ukrainian nationals and their family members who hold a valid non-CUAET visa or eTA can also access CUAET benefits upon arrival at the POE or from within Canada, including a 3-year stay, a 3-year OWP and other CUAET measures.

Under these measures, all in-Canada work permit applications must be submitted electronically using the IRCC secure account with the exception of those of TRP holders, who must submit their WP and TRP applications together on paper to the Case Processing Centre–Edmonton.

For the purpose of this public policy, officers are advised to process OWPs as per normal guidance referred to in Open work permit – General processing and issuance – International Mobility Program with a few exceptions and procedural differences, as described below.

Immigration medical examinations (IMEs)

Ukrainian nationals and their family members who are already in Canada as temporary residents are able to apply separately for the fee-exempt, 3-year OWP. An immigration medical exam (IME) may be required as per standard temporary resident IME requirements.

Find out who requires an immigration medical exam.

Officers should follow the instructions found here: Medical conditions to be imposed for occupation-restricted work permits .

Under the extended CUAET measures, Ukrainian nationals who qualified for a biometric exemption as part of their overseas application, and who submit an in-Canada application for an OWP, will be required to enrol their biometrics but will continue to be fee exempt.

Should a client submit an application as a result of an administrative error (e.g., missing CUAET remark on status document) that previously exempted the client from providing biometrics, an officer may use their discretionary authority (R12.8) to exempt biometrics on the new application.

Issuing a POE work permit

To allow CUAET OWP holders to access in-Canada supports under the CUAET, officers must include special program code (SPC) UAC3 and the following visible remark on the OWP: “CUAET/AVUCU”.

If the client has an approved application for an OWP , officers are encouraged to

• impose the following visible remark on the OWP: “CUAET/AVUCU”
• impose a condition (condition 56) on their work permit stating “Must report for a medical diagnostic test to identify conditions of public health concern within 90 days”
• Clients with valid IME results do not require a condition on their OWP.

If the client does not yet have an approved OWP but requests one at POE (e.g., eTA-required family members, those who didn’t opt for the OWP when they applied for a TRV, or those who held a valid visa before CUAET implementation), officers are encouraged to

• To allow CUAET OWP holders to access in-Canada supports under the CUAET, officers must include SPC UAC3 and the following visible remark on the OWP: “CUAET/AVUCU”.
• impose a condition on the client’s work permit stating “Must report for a medical diagnostic test to identify conditions of public health concern within 90 days”

Clients with a valid IME do not require a condition or a visible remark on their OWP.

Note: BSOs maintain the discretion to determine the authorized length of stay and the validity period of permits, and to impose conditions.

Note: BSOs are to verify if the clients have previously completed an IME by conducting an integrated search. IME results may be linked to another UCI or a T#.

There are two cohorts of non-compliant applications:

• non-compliance related to document requests
• non-compliance related to biometrics

A phased approach to managing these non-compliant cases to finalization will be undertaken.

• The department may issue procedural fairness letters to non-compliant applicants from whom we have not received a response to allow 30 days to submit requested documentation or information.
• Applicants may be granted an extension if they have requested one to comply.
• The department will refuse the applications for which the requested document or information was not provided within the allotted time.

Page details

Canada has launched a new temporary residence programme for citizens of Ukraine. This programme is valid for citizens of Ukraine and their immediate family members (spouses and unmarried children under 22 and their children). If at least one adult in your family is a citizen of Ukraine, the whole family can take advantage of this programme.

General information about the CUAET

• Temporary stay in Canada on a visitor visa, an open work or study permit is allowed for up to three years.
• You should apply for a visitor visa online and submit biometrics at one of the visa centres outside Ukraine .
• You can apply online for a 3-year open work or study permit either when applying for a visitor visa or from inside of Canada.
• School students can immediately start their studies for free upon arrival in Canada. It is not necessary to obtain a study permit. School graduates must obtain a study permit to study at universities (tuition is not free).
• Applicants who do not have a valid passport may still apply, and IRCC will issue a single journey travel document on a case-by-case basis, where appropriate.
• Those already in Canada can extend their visas or permits for three years.

The visa processing time is about 14 days after receiving the complete package of documents.

The Government of Canada encourages employers to register vacancies in the national JobBank to help Ukrainians. You can leave your job search application in a form (it does not guarantee a job offer). The government will also coordinate efforts with local organisations to help new arrivals.

The Government of Canada prioritises and accelerates the processing of all applications from Ukrainians, optimises and strengthens its activities around the world: additional personnel, equipment, mobile biometric data collection points etc.

Ukrainians and their family members are exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements. However, they must still meet all other public health requirements for travel, such as quarantine and testing. With limited exceptions, they must also use ArriveCAN.

The CUAET is a temporary residence pathway and is not a refugee stream. After your visa or permit is expired, you will have to leave the country or use one of the existing immigration programmes.

The Source: Canada.ca  

The details about a visitor visa under CUAET

Detailed guide on application for an open work permit under CUAET

Detailed guide on application for a study permit under CUAET  

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Canada launches new measure to support Ukrainians at home and abroad; The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel

Sara Espinal Henao

In acknowledgement of the dire situation faced by Ukrainians today, and in a committed show of support for their ongoing fight for sovereignty, the Canadian government is instituting new measures to facilitate the temporary immigration of Ukrainian nationals seeking safe haven in Canada.

One such measure is the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (“CUAET”). Officially launched on March 17, 2022, this accelerated temporary residence pathway facilitates and expedites the processing of visas for Ukrainians fleeing their country, and provides avenues for authorized work and study once in Canada.

Who is eligible

This temporary residence option is now available for Ukrainian nationals and their family members. Eligible family members include spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, and the dependent children of those dependents, regardless of their nationality.

If already in Canada, Ukrainian nationals and their family members must have valid or maintained status, or remain able to restore their status as visitors, students, or workers to be eligible.

Why we like it

• Longer authorized stay

Unlike the standard visa application option available to visa-required foreign nationals, the CUAET allows Ukrainians and their immediate family members to stay in Canada for a longer period of time. Successful applicants are authorized to remain in the country for up to three years, whereas standard visa applications usually authorize shorter stays.

Furthermore, the CUAET gives successful applicants a visitor visa that is valid for 10 years or until their passport expires, whichever happens first, and allows them to travel in and out of Canada throughout the visa’s period of validity.

• Available options to work and study

This option also allows applicants to obtain an open work permit that authorizes their employment in Canada in almost any occupation.

Elementary and high school students under the age of 18 are also able to register for and attend school in Canada immediately upon their arrival without the need for study permits if they are unaccompanied, or if their accompanying parents have been approved for open work permits. If their accompanying parents will be entering Canada as visitors, their minor dependents can apply for a study permit at the port of entry.

Post-secondary students under the age of 18, can also apply for a study permit at the port of entry when they arrive in Canada. Those seeking to attend post-secondary education who are over the age of 18 can apply online for a study permit after their arrival, from inside Canada.

Eligible applicants who are already in Canada also benefit from this new pathway. They may apply online to extend their status as visitors or as workers for up to three years, or until their passport expires, whichever happens first. Eligible students have the option of extending their status for the duration of their studies.

• Less documentation required

Moreover, the new program waives many of the eligibility and documentary requirements needed for standard visa applications.

Applicants are not required to provide documentation supporting their financial capacity, proof of family or friends willing and able to host them in Canada, proof of having undergone upfront medical examinations (with a few exemptions), or proof of their current activities as workers or students in Ukraine. The process also waives the requirement to include proof of valid status in their current country of residence in case the applicant is already in countries neighboring Ukraine. Similarly, applicants requesting a work permit as part of their application are not required to show they have a valid offer of employment in Canada.

What is more, eligible candidates can submit their CUAET applications with either a valid Ukrainian Passport or another national identity document. Those with expired passports can request single journey travel documents to allow their entry into the country.

• Expedited processing

CUAET applications will be processed on a priority basis. For standard cases, the CUAET will facilitate the rapid processing of visa applications within 14 days of receipt of a complete application.

• Waived fees

Lastly, this option waives all application fees, including those that would otherwise apply to visa applications, work permit applications, study permit applications, or biometrics.

How it works

Eligible applicants must undergo the following steps to be processed under this program:

• Apply online

Eligible applicants who are outside Canada and who do not already have a valid visitor visa can submit their application for a CUAET online by creating an online account with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (“IRCC”), or using their existing accounts for that purpose. If they would like to work while in Canada, they can request an open work permit as part of the application process. Represented applicants can submit their applications via their representative’s online portal with IRCC.

• Give your biometrics and provide your passport

Applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 remain required to give their biometrics (photo and fingerprints) following submission of their application, provided they have not given their biometrics in the past.

If biometrics are required, eligible applicants will receive a biometrics instruction letter during the processing of their application and can attend the Visa Application Centre closest to give them.

Once the application has been processed and is ready for approval, the applicant may also be required to provide their passport at a Visa Application Centre for their visa to be affixed to it. Passports may be received at the biometrics delivery stage to expedite the process.

• Arrive in Canada

Once a visa has been issued, successful applicants will be authorized to travel to Canada with their valid passports or single journey travel documents. Open work permits will be issued at the Canadian port of entry if a request for such permit had been included at the time of submission of the CUAET application. Study permits, if required, can be requested at the port of entry by eligible travellers.

In order to further facilitate the entry of successful CUAET applicants, Ukrainians and their family members are exempt from Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements. However, they must still meet all other  public health requirements for travel , such as quarantine and testing. With limited exceptions, all travellers to Canada, including anyone arriving under the CUAET, must also use the ArriveCAN app to register their travels prior to their arrival.

We are here to help

In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Stewart McKelvey is offering pro bono immigration support for Ukrainian candidates immigrating to Canada. This service is at no cost to the qualified candidates. For more information, please contact a member of our immigration team .

This client update is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have any questions about the above, please contact a member of our Immigration   group.

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Canada’s Emergency Travel Program For Ukrainians Flooded With More Than 112,000 Applications

• April 11, 2022

Canada’s new pathway for Ukrainians fleeing their war-torn country, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) pathway, was flooded with more than 112,000 applications in its first two weeks, says Immigration Minister Sean Fraser.

“In the last number of days, we have now approved more than 26,500,” said Fraser. “Even though most are arriving as temporary residents, we announced recently that we would expand settlement support for all Ukrainians coming to Canada in recognition of the special circumstances they are facing.”

How To Apply For The Canada-Ukraine Authorization For Emergency Travel Canada-Ukraine Authorization For Emergency Travel Now Open and Accepting Applications Saskatchewan Conducts Canada Immigration Draw Aimed Exclusively At Candidates From Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine on Feb. 24 and quickly struck the country with a full military onslaught. Video coming out of Ukraine shows the full extent of the devastation as nothing seems to be spared from the Russian air missile attacks, not even maternity wards and civilians.  

Canada Heading Up the United Nations’ Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility

Millions have fled Ukraine and are seeking refuge in neighbouring countries and Canada is leading the way in these refugee resettlement efforts.

“Canada has a proud history of welcoming refugees from around the world,” Fraser tweeted last week.  

“Alongside (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) Filippo Grandi, I joined leaders from other nations and international organizations to launch the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility, which Canada will lead for the first two years.”

The new United Nations initiative builds on Canada’s Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot, a ground-breaking program that recognizes the skills and abilities of refugees by removing barriers and helping them and their families immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs, explained Fraser.

Earlier this year, Ottawa announced Canada will expand its federal settlement programs to include language training, orientation, employment assistance and other supports for Ukrainians as they settle into their new communities.

“We’re working with our provincial and territorial partners, the Ukrainian-Canadian community, the business community, and settlement organizations across the country to develop more ways to support those in Canada, as Ukraine bravely defends their homeland against Putin’s war.”

The CUAET pathway began accepting applications on March 17. The new pathway allows Ukrainians to stay in Canada for up to three years and be eligible for free  open work  and  study permits .

Canada has increased its immigration application processing capacity in Europe and has sent mobile biometrics kits to Warsaw, Vienna and Bucharest to take the fingerprints and portrait photos of prospective Ukrainian refugees in its bid to ensure proper security precautions are taken with the surge in applications.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) officials have also confirmed Ottawa has set up temporary pop-ups for biometrics collection in addition to IRCC’s usual Visa Application Centre network.

Employers Can Now Post Jobs for Ukrainian Refugees on Job Bank

Canadian businesses and employers can now add jobs for Ukrainians on Canada’s online job bank.

“We are working with partners, including provinces and territories, the business community, the Ukrainian-Canadian community, and settlement organizations on how best to support Ukrainians,” tweeted Fraser. “We stand with Ukraine and will offer safe harbour for those who want to come to Canada.”

Canada has vowed to accept an unlimited number of Ukrainian  refugees  – and could see a massive influx of newcomers because the Russia-Ukraine war is considered to be the biggest assault on a European state since the Second World War.

Earlier this year, the IRCC announced any Ukrainian already in Canada before the start of the war on a temporary basis could also apply to extend his or her status as a visitor, student or worker.

Among the new immigration measures announced since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war are:

• a dedicated service channel for Ukraine enquiries that will be available for clients both in Canada and abroad at 613-321-4243, with collect calls accepted. In addition, clients can now add the keyword “Ukraine2022” to the IRCC Webform with their enquiry and their e-mail will be prioritized;
• urgent processing of travel documents, including issuing single-journey travel documents for immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who do not have valid passports;
• an updated web page to provide current information on measures. This page will include content in Ukrainian for ease of reference;
• permission for Ukrainians currently in Canada to extend their stay or stay longer in Canada by prioritizing the renewal of work and study permits, and extending a policy that allows individuals to apply for a work permit from within Canada. This policy would allow temporary residents who receive a job offer to remain in Canada and start working while they wait for their work permit application to be processed, and;
• the issuance of open work permits to Ukrainian visitors, workers and students who are currently in Canada and cannot go home, so they can stay longer if they wish. Fees are being waived, retroactive to Feb. 22, for certain travel and immigration documents, such as Canadian passports, permanent resident travel documents, proofs of citizenship, visitor visas, and work and study permits.

Colin R. Singer

• Tags: Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel , CUAET , Sean Fraser , Study permit , Ukraine , work permit

Related articles

Canada Urged To Extend Emergency Travel Program For Ukrainians

IRCC To Process Extra H-1B Open Work Permit Applications Already Received

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Transportation Company Obligations Guide for Transporters

  For information on:

immigration measures for people affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, refer to the following: Immigration measures for people affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine – Canada.ca

Table of Contents

Introduction, 1. obligation not to carry improperly documented or prescribed persons to canada, 2. obligation to hold documents, 3. obligation to present and hold persons for immigration examination, 4. obligation to provide facilities, 5. removal obligations – carrying inadmissible persons from canada, 6. obligation to provide information upon request, 7. requirement to deposit security, disembarkation checks – commercial air transporters, why disembarkation checks are important, part 2 – advance passenger information (api), passenger name record (pnr) and the interactive advance passenger information (iapi) initiative, general (and exemptions), regulation 280 memorandum of understanding, 1. canadian citizens, permanent residents and registered indians, 2. foreign nationals travelling to become permanent residents (intending immigrants), travel document exemptions for temporary residents (visitors), u.s. citizens/nationals, u.s. permanent residents, ukrainian nationals, electronic travel authorization (eta) exemptions, temporary resident permits, contiguous territory, notification requirements, financial liability for crew members, document exemptions for crew members, travel document and visa/eta requirements, minor children travelling alone or with persons other than both parents, suspected abduction, 1. seven steps for examining a passport, 2. visa examination, 3. identifying impostors, transit without visa program, china transit program, 1. advice and training available overseas, 2. intelligence information and trend analysis, part 9 – cbsa liaison officers (los), part 10 – document images and exemplars.

The Canada Border Services Agency's (CBSA) Guide for Transporters is designed to ensure that transporters are fully aware of Canada's immigration requirements and the immigration control documents that are required of visitors and immigrants travelling to Canada. It also helps transporters understand their obligations under Canada's Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and the operational, procedural and financial liabilities set out in the accompanying Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR).

This guide has been updated to reflect recent changes to the IRPR, most notably, the introduction of the electronic travel authorization (eTA) as a prescribed travel document in the air mode. As of March 15, 2016, visa-exempt foreign nationals who fly to or transit through Canada will require an eTA. Exceptions include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. A full list of eTA exemptions can be found on the Government of Canada website .

Foreign nationals who require an eTA can apply online and are normally approved within minutes, as long as no immigration concerns exist. Once approved, the eTA is electronically linked to the passport used in the eTA application. An eTA is valid for 5 years or until a person's passport expires, whichever comes first. However, an eTA may be cancelled if a foreign national is inadmissible or no longer entitled to hold one.

To validate this new eTA requirement, the CBSA has implemented the Interactive Advance Passenger Information (IAPI) initiative, which will allow the Agency to provide interactive board or no-board messages to commercial air carriers. These board/no-board messages serve to assist the commercial transporter in meeting their transporter obligations by validating whether its passengers have an eTA or visa, if required. These interactive messages are a tool to further assist airlines in their decision to board and do not replace the requirement for commercial transporters to physically examine a passenger's travel documents.

Note : This guide is now offered only in electronic format, consistent with the Government of Canada Publishing Guidelines . It will be updated as required.

Part 1 – Transporter Obligations and Liabilities

Transporters that carry passengers to Canada must adhere to specific transporter obligations and have certain liabilities as defined in IRPA and IRPR. Transporters are also responsible to pay for all prescribed costs and fees relating to these obligations. The obligations and liabilities are as follows:

Obligations

Passengers carried by transporters must be properly documented for travel to Canada. Transporters must not carry to Canada any person who does not hold the prescribed documents required for entry. In addition, transporters must not carry to Canada any person who is prescribed or who an officer directs not to be carried. Failure to meet these requirements can result in the assessment of an administration fee, or in exceptional circumstances, the seizure of a transporter's vehicle. Prescribed documents include:

• passports and travel documents;
• visas required by foreign nationals to enter Canada;
• valid permanent resident cards;
• travel documents issued to permanent residents abroad to facilitate their return to Canada;
• single journey travel documents issued to refugees selected abroad for resettlement in Canada;
• travel documents issued by Canada to persons on whom the Government of Canada has conferred protection as refugees or protected persons; and
• electronic travel authorization (eTA).

Prescribed persons include:

• any foreign national who is the subject of a declaration made under subsection 22.1(1) of the Act, unless they hold a temporary resident permit issued under section 24 of the Act;
• any foreign national who is not authorized under subsection 52(1) of the Act to return to Canada; and
• any foreign national who is prohibited from entering Canada by an order or regulation made by the Governor in Council under the Emergencies Act or the Quarantine Act .

A transporter must require persons exempt from the legal requirement for a passport, visa or eTA, to present sufficient credible evidence to support all identity, citizenship and/or residency requirements.

The responsibility to ensure that a passenger is properly documented applies from the time the transporter boards the person at the final embarkation point before arrival in Canada until that person is presented for examination at a Canadian port of entry.

If there is doubt surrounding the authenticity of a travel document or whether the passenger is the rightful holder of a document, boarding should be refused and the person concerned should be referred to local control authorities.

To ensure that a person is properly documented when presented to an officer for examination at a port of entry, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act authorizes transporters to hold a passenger's travel documents. Where a commercial transporter has reasonable grounds to believe that the prescribed documents of a person it is carrying to Canada may not be available for examination at a port of entry, despite the apparent authenticity of the documents, the commercial transporter must hold the documents until examination and give the person a receipt for the documents.

Transporters may use form BSF575 (see Part 10 I-19), Receipt for Prescribed Document under R260 , which can be ordered via the CBSA website , or one of their choosing; the type of receipt used is at the transporter's discretion. A transporter who holds a passenger's documents must give the documents and a copy of the receipt to a CBSA officer when presenting the person for examination.

Transporters are required to present all persons they carry to Canada for examination and to hold them until the examination is completed. The transporter has complied with the obligation to hold a person for examination when:

• a CBSA officer informs the transporter that the examination of the person is completed;
• the person is authorized to enter Canada for further examination or an admissibility hearing; or
• the person is detained under any Canadian law. 

A CBSA officer may request a representative of the transporter to sign Form BSF453, Confirmation by Transporter Regarding Passenger(s) Carried (see Part 10 I-20).

Transporters must immediately notify a CBSA officer if a passenger eludes or attempts to elude examination.

Transporters must provide facilities for the holding and examination of persons being carried to Canada unless facilities for the examination and holding of persons are available at the port of entry. At international airports, transporters normally hold their passengers inside the terminal building, provided their passengers are not in transit. Persons arriving on cargo ships, however, must always be held aboard until examinations are completed.

Transporters are required to provide, equip and maintain facilities at ports of entry for the holding and examination of persons being carried to Canada. This requirement applies to commercial transporters and transporters who operate an airport, international bridge or tunnel.

In certain circumstances, commercial transporters must carry from Canada inadmissible foreign nationals that they bring to Canada. This requirement applies to foreign nationals who:

• are directed to leave pursuant to Regulation 40(1);
• are directed back to the United States pursuant to Regulation 41;
• are allowed to withdraw their application to enter Canada pursuant to Regulation 42; or
• are subject to an enforceable removal order.

Transporters must transport foreign nationals—subject to enforceable removal orders—from wherever they are situated in Canada to the vehicle in which they will be carried from Canada.

A transporter is not required to carry a foreign national from Canada, if the foreign national at the time of their examination:

• was authorized to enter and remain in Canada on a temporary basis;
• held a temporary or permanent resident visa; or
• was prescribed under section 258 of IRPR and the commercial transporter was not notified before the person was carried to Canada.

A transporter is always required to carry from Canada a foreign national carried to Canada as a crew member, or to become a crew, a member regardless of whether entry was authorized.

Arrangements

CBSA officers will notify transporters of their obligation to carry an inadmissible foreign national from Canada as soon as a removal order becomes enforceable. Form BSF502, Notice to transporter , will normally be the means by which notification is served. Where applicable, the officer will inform the transporter of its obligation to provide an escort or will arrange for the carriage of an escort assigned by the Minister.

After being notified, the transporter must, without delay, notify an officer of the removal arrangements made and carry the foreign national from Canada within 48 hours thereafter. To be acceptable, the arrangements must meet these requirements:

• The itinerary begins where the foreign national is situated in Canada and ends in the city where the foreign national is to be removed and follows the most direct routing possible;
• The itinerary does not include a country through which transit has not been approved; and
• Any connection times must not exceed 12 hours.

Should the transporter fail to make the necessary removal arrangements, a CBSA officer may do so at the transporter's expense.

Transporters are required to pay the costs of removing from Canada any foreign national who they carry or cause to be carried from Canada, unless the foreign national falls under one of the removal exemptions outlined earlier in this guide. Transporters are liable for all costs related to the departure from Canada of a crew member, regardless of the circumstances.

A transporter's liability for removals and the associated removal costs continues until a foreign national's immigration case has been resolved, which may take several years in some circumstances.

Removal costs for which a transporter may be liable include:

• expenses incurred in or outside Canada for the foreign national's accommodation and transport;
• accommodation and travel expenses incurred by an escort;
• fees paid in obtaining passports, travel documents and visas for the foreign national and any escorts;
• the cost of meals, incidentals and other related expenses;
• regular and overtime wages paid to escorts and other personnel accompanying the foreign national; and
• costs or expenses for interpreters or medical or other personnel assisting with the removal. 

On request of a CBSA officer, transporters are required to provide the following documents without delay, provided the request is made within 72 hours after the presentation for examination of the person in Canada:

• a copy of the passenger's ticket;
• information related to the passenger's travel itinerary, including the place of embarkation and dates of travel; and
• information about the passport number and type, or the travel or identity document used by the passenger. 

In accordance with the Act and the Regulations, transporters are obligated to deposit security if they are directed to do so. Security must be in the form of a cash deposit in Canadian currency. Alternative forms of security will not normally be considered. However, exceptions may occasionally be made if the CBSA has entered into a Regulation 280 Memorandum of Understanding (R280 MoU) with the transporter, provided that the agreement stipulates what type of alternate security would be acceptable (R280 MoU is explained in Part 3).

There are two forms of security:

• General security is required of all commercial transporters with regular passenger service to Canada. Where the deposit is in cash, interest is paid on general security. The amount of security is determined on the basis of estimates of potential liabilities and on the transporter's payment and credit record.
• Case-specific security is required on a case-by-case basis, generally in the marine mode of transportation only. No interest is paid on case-specific security The amount of case-specific security in respect of a crew member, stowaway or any inadmissible person may vary, but will normally be a minimum of Can$25,000 per person. Commercial transporters will be requested in writing to provide a security deposit. When security is received, a departmental official will complete and provide the original official receipt to the transporter (see Part 10 I-21).

When a commercial transporter fails to comply with a direction to post security, the following actions may be taken to enforce the direction:

• detention of a vehicle or other prescribed good(s) until the transporter complies with the direction or until security is received from a third party; and
• seizure and sale of a vehicle or other prescribed good(s) if the amount remains unpaid beyond a reasonable period of time.

Should enforcement action be required, Form BSF775, Notice of Detention or Seizure of Vehicle or Prescribed Good will be issued to the transporter.

Where no security has been deposited, detention or seizure of a vehicle or other prescribed good can also be used to collect unpaid liabilities. The transporter is liable to pay all costs associated with the detention or seizure of one of its vehicles.

Immigration Processes at the Port of Entry

Disembarkation checks are conducted on selected flights to identify persons who may have disposed of their travel documents prior to or during the flight. The disembarkation check takes place upon arrival at the port of entry. Persons aboard may be asked to show their travel documents to a CBSA officer before disembarking, or they may be met at the gate. An officer has authority to board and inspect a vehicle and to examine and record documents carried by a person on board a vehicle.

To minimize delays for commercial air transporters, CBSA officers carry out disembarkation checks as quickly as possible. Aircraft are selected for disembarkation checks according to the extent of undocumented arrivals on particular routes, and the availability of CBSA personnel at the port of entry. Port of entry managers have been asked to give advance notice to airlines so that passengers may be notified that they must produce their documentation at disembarkation. Commercial air carriers are requested to cooperate with CBSA personnel in this regard.

High-quality, forged documents or altered, borrowed or stolen genuine documents are often returned to smugglers immediately prior to boarding or to couriers aboard the same aircraft. In other cases, documents are destroyed or hidden aboard the aircraft by persons wishing to conceal their identity, thereby facilitating fraudulent refugee claims and complicating the removal of these persons.

In addition to confirming that undocumented or improperly documented passengers arrived aboard a given flight, disembarkation checks improve the chances of retrieving hidden documents and could lead to the apprehension of a document courier travelling on the same aircraft.

The Customs Act , the Passenger Information (Customs) Regulations , the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations require commercial air carriers to provide API and PNR on all passengers destined to Canada and API for all crew members destined to Canada.

The IAPI initiative expands on the current API/PNR Program by requiring that commercial air carriers electronically transmit passenger and crew member information to the CBSA for international flights destined for Canada earlier in the travel continuum. The IAPI functionality gives the CBSA the capacity to provide a board/no-board message to commercial air carriers relating to the passengers onboard the commercial air carrier's flight. This assists commercial air carriers in determining whether or not to proceed with boarding a passenger pursuant to their transporter obligations.

There are three transmission methods available to commercial air carriers for the purpose of submitting API and PNR data:

• MQ/Direct Connect : A direct connection between the client and the CBSA or the client's service provider and the CBSA.
• IAG (Internet API Gateway) : An internet portal used to submit API/PNR data online.
• Email : clients may email their API data to the CBSA.

Complete passenger API data must be submitted no later than passenger check-in. Any changes to this data must be re‑submitted prior to the flight's departure. Each successful transmission results in an automated board/no-board message from the CBSA to the commercial air carrier/service provider. Complete crew API data must be submitted no later than one hour prior to the flight's departure; however, a board/no-board message will not be provided for those identified as crew members. PNR data must be submitted at the time of flight departure.

To assist the transportation industry with the API/PNR program, the CBSA has established a client account support team (CAST) who is responsible for responding to inquiries and providing information to air carriers.

Part 3 – Administration Fees

Commercial transporters are required to pay administration fees to partially defray the cost of processing certain categories of inadmissible foreign nationals which they carry to Canada. The fees apply when a commercial transporter carries a foreign national who:

• is inadmissible under section 41 of the Act for failing to meet the requirements of section 6, subsection 7(1), section 7.1 or subsection 50(1) or 52(1) of the Regulations;
• is prescribed under section 258.1 or whom the transporter has been directed not to carry to Canada under paragraph 148(1)( a ) of the Act;
• is exempt, under subsection 52(2) of the Regulations, from the requirement to hold a passport or travel document but who fails to produce sufficient evidence of their identity;
• failed to appear for an examination on entry into Canada;
• entered Canada as a member of a crew or to become a member of a crew and is inadmissible; and
• is subject to a removal order, or is allowed under section 42 to withdraw their application to enter Canada, and who fails to leave Canada immediately.

Administration fees are waived in respect of:

• a person referred to in section 39 of the Regulations;
• a foreign national who is prescribed under section 258.1 and in respect of whom notice under section 270 was not given before the foreign national was carried to Canada, but who holds the necessary documents prescribed under section 259;
• a foreign national who does not hold an electronic travel authorization when one is required under section 7.01 or 7.1 and in respect of whom the Canada Border Services Agency did not give notice under section 270 to the commercial transporter before the foreign national was carried to Canada, but who holds one of the required prescribed documents set out in paragraphs 259(a) to (f); or
• a foreign national, other than a foreign national referred to in paragraph 190(3)(c), who seeks to enter Canada to obtain permanent residence and is inadmissible under paragraph 41(a) of the Act for failing to obtain a permanent resident visa as required under section 6, but who is exempted under Division 1 of Part 2 from the requirement to obtain an electronic travel authorization required under section 7.01 or 7.1 or exempted under Division 5 of Part 9 from the requirement to obtain a temporary resident visa.

If a transporter has carried an improperly documented foreign national, the transporter will be notified that it is in violation of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act .

An electronically generated preliminary notification will be sent to the liable commercial transporter (air mode only), informing them of the violation and providing as much detail as possible.

Each time an administration fee is assessed against a commercial transporter, the company will receive a Notice of Assessment , which is served by electronic transmission.

The transporter may contest the administration fee by filing a written submission within 30 days of receipt of the Notice of Assessment. The exact deadline for filing the submission is indicated on the Notice of Assessment. In its submission, a transporter must clearly indicate the reason for appeal and provide any information or material it is relying upon to dispute the transporter violation indicated on the Notice of Assessment. The CBSA's delegate will review each submission and confirm, cancel or vary the assessment. The final decision is conveyed in writing to the transporter. If a submission is not received by the deadline indicated on the Notice of Assessment, the assessment becomes final and the transporter is liable for the administration fee.

Note : Submissions are considered only in response to a Notice of Assessment. Transporters should not make submissions in response to receipt of the aforementioned electronic preliminary notification.

The R280 MoU Program is a collaborative program whereby the CBSA and a commercial airline enter into an agreement in an effort to prevent and reduce the number of improperly documented foreign nationals who are carried to Canada.

Both parties agree to certain undertakings that are designed to enhance the effectiveness of document screening and fraud detection. For example, commercial transporters are required to use trained personnel to screen documents, while the CBSA undertakes to provide appropriate training to enable them to do so effectively. A commercial airline that agrees to implement effective and ongoing document screening and fraud detection procedures may benefit from reduced administration fees. The Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations lists the elements that must be included in the MoU.

Commercial airlines are also required to perform a secondary examination of documents, known as a gate check. This ensures that the documents are still in the person's possession upon boarding the vehicle and have not already been returned to a smuggler for "recycling."

Commercial airlines are also required to perform a secondary examination of documents to  confirm  the identities of the passengers boarding the vehicle.

The administration fees assessed against commercial airlines that remain compliant to the terms of the MoU may be reduced by 25 percent, 50 percent, 75 percent or 100 percent. The actual reduction will be determined based on the commercial airline's degree of success in adhering to the performance standards set out in the MoU.

Part 4 – Document Requirements

There are three main categories of persons defined by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act , in terms of requirements when seeking entry into Canada:

• Persons with a right of entry as per section 19: Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents and Registered Indians;
• Persons seeking entry to become permanent residents; and
• Persons seeking entry to become temporary residents.

Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents of Canada and Registered Indians in Canada enter Canada by right. To be accepted for travel, Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents and Registered Indians must be able to produce satisfactory evidence of their identity and status.

A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted identification document that proves that the holder has a right to return to and enter Canada. The Government of Canada recommends that Canadian citizens and Canadian-born Registered Indians travel with a valid Canadian passport for all visits abroad, including the United States.

Commercial transporters should refer Canadian citizens making international travel bookings to the "Traveller's Checklist" on the Global Affairs Canada website at www.travel.gc.ca .

Canadian Citizens

The following travel documents are proof of Canadian citizenship for the purpose of international travel:

• Canada Regular Passport
• Canada Diplomatic Passport
• Canada Special Passport
• Canada Temporary Passport
• Canada Emergency Travel Document
• Canada Travel Document

Note : Documents such as Canadian Citizenship Certificates (CCC), birth certificates and driver's licenses are not travel documents. Transporters should perform their due diligence when faced with a passenger claiming to be a Canadian citizen but not possessing a Canadian travel document.

The Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) and Enhanced Identification Card (EIC) (non-drivers) are alternative travel documents denoting the holder's identity and citizenship for border-crossing purposes solely at U.S. land and marine POEs.

Registered Indians

The Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) or the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) is not a travel document, nor is it proof of Canadian citizenship. It is an identity document issued by Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada to confirm that the cardholder is registered as a Status Indian under the Indian Act .

Permanent Residents of Canada

Permanent Residents (PRs) of Canada must travel with a valid Canadian Permanent Resident card. Transporters should not board passengers claiming to be Canadian PRs who are not in possession of proof of their status, or who are travelling with an expired PR card.

The following documents are considered proof of Canadian permanent resident status:

• Government of Canada Permanent Resident Card . A valid Permanent Resident Card , accompanied by a valid foreign passport is proof of permanent resident status for international travel purposes. The card has an expiry date and is valid for either five years or one year.
• Permanent Resident travel document (visa counterfoil). Permanent residents outside Canada who do not have a Permanent Resident card and who would be unable to otherwise return to Canada may obtain a PR travel document from a Canadian mission abroad. This is a counterfoil in the same format as a visa and is affixed to the PR's passport or travel document.

Permanent residents may also travel to Canada with a Canadian Refugee Travel Document, a Canadian Certificate of Identity or a Single Journey Travel Document.  Where a permanent resident travels on one of these documents, the permanent resident must be in possession of a permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document (counterfoil).

Foreign nationals from visa-required countries and protected persons selected abroad, regardless of their nationality, require a PR visa when travelling to Canada to become a PR. Foreign nationals from eTA required countries will be issued an eFoil (similar to an eTA) in order to facilitate boarding of their flight to Canada.

In addition to the PR visa counterfoil or eFoil, a foreign national travelling to Canada to become a PR must hold one of the following documents as prescribed by section 259 of the IRPR:

• a passport, other than a diplomatic, official or similar passport, that was issued by the country of which the foreign national is a citizen or national;
• a travel document that was issued by the country of which the foreign national is a citizen or national;
• an identity or travel document that was issued by a country to non-national residents, refugees or stateless persons who are unable to obtain a passport or other travel document from their country of citizenship or nationality or who have no country of citizenship or nationality;
• a refugee travel paper issued by the Minister;
• a travel document that was issued by the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva, Switzerland, to enable and facilitate emigration;
• a passport or travel document that was issued by the Palestinian Authority;
• an exit visa that was issued by the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics to its citizens who were compelled to relinquish their Soviet nationality in order to emigrate from that country;
• a passport issued by the United Kingdom to a British National (Overseas), as a person born, naturalized or registered in Hong Kong;
• a passport issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China;
• a passport issued by the United Kingdom to a British Subject; or
• a temporary travel document.

Regular passports

Regular passports are acceptable for foreign nationals seeking to become PRs so long as the passport is issued by the country of which the foreign national is a citizen or national. As some countries occasionally issue passports to non-citizens, it is important to check the passport holder's nationality, as indicated on the biographical page of the document.

Note : Diplomatic, official or similar passports are not acceptable documents for foreign nationals seeking to become permanent residents.

Single Journey Document for Resettlement in Canada

This document is a temporary Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) travel document issued by a Canadian mission abroad to foreign nationals who are determined to be members of the Convention Refugees abroad or the humanitarian-protected persons abroad classes who are travelling to Canada for resettlement and who hold a permanent resident visa.

The document is printed on form IMM 5485B. It is signed and dated by the issuing visa officer. A photograph of the holder is attached to the form and covered by a clear immigration protective seal. The form must contain a valid and subsisting permanent resident visa, which is also covered by a separate immigration protective seal.

International Committee of the Red Cross Travel Document

This document is an acceptable travel document for foreign nationals who are seeking to travel to Canada to become permanent residents. The PR visa must be affixed to the document.

It is acceptable for only one trip to Canada, within the validity period of the document.

Note : It is not acceptable for foreign nationals seeking to become temporary residents.

3. Foreign Nationals Travelling to Become Temporary Residents (Visit/Study/Work)

A foreign national travelling to Canada to become a temporary resident must hold one of the following prescribed documents as per section 259 of the IRP Regulations:

• a passport that was issued by the country of which the foreign national is a citizen or national, that does not prohibit travel to Canada; and that the foreign national may use to enter the country of issue;
• a travel document that was issued by the country of which the foreign national is a citizen or national, that does not prohibit travel to Canada and that the foreign national may use to enter the country of issue;
• an identity or travel document that was issued by a country that does not prohibit travel to Canada, that the foreign national may use to enter the country of issue and that is of the type issued by that country to non-national residents, refugees or stateless persons who are unable to obtain a passport or other travel document from their country of citizenship or nationality or who have no country of citizenship or nationality;
• refugee travel papers issued by the Government of Canada;
• a laissez-passer that was issued by the United Nations;
• a laissez-passer that was issued by the European Union;
• a document that was issued by the Organization of American States and is entitled "Official Travel Document";
• a passport issued by the United Kingdom to a British Overseas citizen;
• a passport issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China; or
• a passport issued by the United Kingdom to a British subject.

In addition to one of the above documents, a foreign national must also hold:

• an electronic travel authorization (eTA).

Regular passports are acceptable for foreign nationals seeking to become temporary residents so long as the passport:

• is valid for the period authorized for their stay;
• is issued by the country of which they are a citizen or national;
• does not prohibit travel to Canada, and;
• may be used to enter the issuing country.

Diplomatic and official passports

Diplomatic and official passports are acceptable for foreign nationals seeking to become temporary residents only in cases where the passport does not prohibit travel to Canada and guarantees re-entry of the foreign national into the issuing country during the validity period of the document. The issuing authority must be recognized by Canada.

Group passport

Group passports with a limited validity are issued by some countries to provide an easy and cost-effective way for groups of young people to attend events in other countries or to participate in organized school tours of other countries. Other purposes for group passports include facilitating the management of travel by sports teams or religious pilgrims to destination countries, and ensuring that nationals of the issuing country enter and leave the destination country as a group. A group passport is acceptable only for temporary resident purposes, provided it is issued to members of organized parties and athletic teams, and that it meets the following conditions:

• it must be a valid travel document according to the law of the issuing country;
• all persons named in it must be nationals of the country of issue;
• no person named in it may be inadmissible for any reason;
• it must be valid for a period of one day or more beyond the expiry date of any visa that will be issued;
• it must permit the re-entry to the country of issue of all persons named in it; and
• it must provide that all persons named in it will enter Canada and leave Canada as a group.

Note : Electronic travel authorizations (eTA) are not issued to group passports.

Certificate of Identity

The Certificate of Identity is acceptable for foreign nationals with temporary resident visas seeking to become temporary residents, provided that:

• it does not prohibit travel to Canada; and
• the holder may use it to re-enter the issuing country during the validity period of the document.

Laissez-passer issued by the United Nations and European Union

The United Nations (UN) laissez-passer is issued by the United Nations to its officials, under Article VII of the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations. The laissez-passer is issued exclusively to UN officials travelling on official UN business that is paid for or authorized by the UN or a specialized agency of the UN.

The European Union (EU) laissez-passer is issued by the European Union to civil servants and members of the institutions of the European Union, as well as their family members in certain cases, under conditions laid down in the Staff Regulations of Officials and the Conditions of Employment of other servants of the Union.

The laissez-passer is usually used in conjunction with the officials' national passports. Temporary resident visas should be affixed to the UN or EU laissez-passer if the visa-required holder is planning to enter Canada by way of that document rather than a national passport.

Note : eTAs are not issued to a UN or EU laissez-passer. Therefore, eTA-required foreign nationals must travel with their foreign passport that is linked to a valid eTA.

Official Travel Document issued by the Organization of American States (OAS)

The OAS Official Travel Document is acceptable for foreign nationals seeking to become temporary residents with a temporary resident visa, if applicable to their nationality. The OAS Official Travel Document is issued to officials of the Organization of American States travelling on OAS business. It is a dark blue booklet containing the name, date of birth and photograph of the holder, and identifies the holder as travelling on official OAS business. Temporary resident visas should be affixed to the OAS travel document if the visa-required foreign national is planning to enter Canada by way of that document rather than a national passport.

Note : eTAs are not issued to an OAS travel document. Therefore, eTA-required foreign nationals must travel with their foreign passport that is linked to a valid eTA.

Refugee Travel Document

Refugee Travel Documents are acceptable for foreign nationals with temporary resident visas (if required) seeking to become temporary residents.

Note : Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. can travel with a valid U.S. Refugee Travel Document and valid proof of U.S. lawful permanent resident status.

Single Journey Travel Document

IRCC may issue a Single Journey Travel Document (SJTD) in limited circumstances to persons who are unable to obtain a prescribed travel document. The document, which is a paper form resembling the Single Journey Document for Resettlement to Canada, will always be endorsed with a Canadian visa counterfoil covered with an immigration protective seal and a photograph of the holder covered with a protective seal.

The SJTD is issued to individuals, not families. Children are not included in their parent's document, but receive their own. Individuals approved by a visa officer for temporary or permanent residence who are inadmissible due to the lack of a prescribed document and are therefore approved for temporary resident permit issuance may be issued a SJTD. Because of the lack of a prescribed document under R259, a temporary resident permit counterfoil coded PA-1 must be affixed to the SJTD.

As per subsection 52(2) of the Regulations travel documents are not required by:

• U.S. citizens
• French citizens who are residents of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon and who travel directly to Canada from Saint-Pierre and Miquelon; provided they are French citizens, residents of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon do not require passports to travel from Saint-Pierre and Miquelon to Canada directly. However, citizens of France that are resident of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon presenting other documents may not be able to satisfy a CBSA officer that they are exempt from the entry document requirements. 
• Members of the armed forces of a country that is a designated state for the purposes of the Visiting Forces Act , seeking entry to carry out official duties (other than persons designated as a civilian component of those armed forces). The foreign national must be a member of the military of a designated country under the Visiting Forces Act, however, they do not need to be a national of that country.
• Persons who are seeking to enter Canada as, or in order to become, members of a crew of a means of air transportation and who hold an airline flight crew license or crew member certificate issued in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization specifications.

Crew licenses and crew member certificates are acceptable in lieu of passports or travel documents and in lieu of a temporary resident visa. It is issued in accordance with ICAO specifications, is a certificate issued by the State in which the aircraft is registered. The certificate is approximately 6 x 4 inches and shows the name, address, date and place of birth, nationality or citizenship, name of the employing airline and description of duties, as well as the photograph and signature of the holder. Although the return of the holder to the territory of the issuing country is guaranteed, the certificate is valid for use only during the term of employment and while the holder is actually serving as a member of the operating crew of an aircraft.

• Persons seeking to enter Canada as a member of a crew who hold a seafarer's identity document issued under International Labour Organization conventions and are members of the crew of the vessel that carries them to Canada.

Although exempt from document entry requirements, U.S. citizens must satisfy a CBSA officer of their status and identity. Documents that can be used for proof of U.S. citizenship are:

• U.S. Passport
• U.S. Passport Card (for land and marine travel only )
• NEXUS card (see Part 6 for more information)
• Enhanced Driver's License (for land and marine travel only

All permanent residents of the United States must travel with proof of their permanent resident status in order to substantiate their eTA and visa exemption.

The following documents are proof of U.S. permanent residence:

• unexpired U.S. Permanent Resident Card ( I-551 )
• a foreign passport that contains a temporary I-551 printed notation ("UPON ENDORSEMENT SERVES AS TEMPORARY I-551 EVIDENCING PERMANENT RESIDENCE FOR 1 YEAR") on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
• a temporary I-551 ADIT (Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunications System) stamp affixed to a passport or affixed to the Arrival/Departure Record (Form  I-94 ) containing a passport style photo
• I-797 Notice of Action accompanied by the passenger's expired U.S. PR card; the I-797 must indicate that it is a receipt notice associated with one of the following specific application types – Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence), Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status) or Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• unexpired I-327 Re-entry Permit

Visual samples of some forms of USLPR evidence are available on uscis.gov, as follows:

• see Form I-9 Acceptable Documents , under List A Documents
• see Form I-797C , Notice of Action

Some Ukrainian nationals seeking to travel to Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel ( CUAET ) measures are now eligible for counterfoil-less visas. The counterfoil-less visas are electronically linked to the traveller's passport, similar to an electronic travel authorization (eTA).

The eligibility requirements are outlined below:

• All non-Ukrainian family members
• Ukrainian nationals who do not reside in one of the countries listed below
• Any client issued a temporary resident permit (TRP)

Note : Once approved for the counterfoil-less visa, a Ukrainian national will be provided with a visa/TRV issuance letter from the Government of Canada.

Note : Airlines must only accept the counterfoil-less visa letter if the point of departure for travel to Canada by air is one of the first six countries listed above . Ukraine is not included, given that there are currently no flights out of Ukraine. If a passenger's intended country of departure is not one of the first six countries listed above, they will need to submit their passport to the nearest Visa Application Centre so that IRCC can affix a physical TRV counterfoil to their passport.

Air carriers are required to ensure that the traveller with a counterfoil-less TRV is a Ukrainian national and travelling on a valid Ukrainian passport, departing from one of the first six countries listed above . All travellers, including children, must be in possession of the issuance letter. As with an eTA, air carriers should submit the document information in the Advance Passenger Information (API) message and passengers in possession of a counterfoil-less visa will receive an automated CBSA immigration ‘board (prescribed document on file)' response.

Note : Effective March 1, 2022 , the validity of Ukrainian passports may be extended by Ukrainian embassies and consulates abroad. Validity may be extended up to a maximum of five years past the passport's original expiry date. To indicate the extended validity, embassies and consulates will add an ink stamp to one of the “Special Notes” pages of the passport (page 2, 3, 4, or 5), and the new expiration date will be handwritten within the fields of the ink stamp. All extensions will be authorized by the embassy's seal, as well as the consul's signature. Ukrainian embassies and consulates may also add details regarding dependent children (including their photo, name, and date of birth) to the passport of their parent or guardian. These details will also be noted on one of the “Special Notes” pages of the passport, and will be authorized by the embassy's seal, as well as the consul's signature. These measures are expected remain in effect while martial law is in effect in Ukraine, and could remain in effect for up to one year after the end of martial law.

4. Temporary Resident Visa Exemptions

Temporary resident visa exemptions are granted to the following: nationals of designated countries; holders of certain documents; and to certain foreign nationals. Exemptions are based on the purpose of their travel.

Nationals of designated countries

The requirement to obtain a temporary resident visa is waived for citizens of certain countries. The Government of Canada provides a complete and up-to-date listing of persons who do and do not require visas to travel to Canada.

Holders of certain documents

Holders of the following documents are exempted from the requirement to obtain a temporary resident visa:

• A passport that contains a diplomatic acceptance, a consular acceptance or an official acceptance;
• A passport or travel document issued by the Holy See;
• A national Israeli passport;
• Note : It is important to distinguish between national Israeli passports that are visa-exempt and Israeli Travel Documents that are not visa-exempt, since the two documents are very similar in appearance.

Note : Holders of the Macau Special Administrative Region (Macau SAR) passport issued by the People's Republic of China require temporary resident visas when coming to Canada for a temporary purpose.

• A passport issued by the United Kingdom to a British National (Overseas), as a person born, naturalized or registered in Hong Kong;
• If the document states that the holder is re-admissible to the United Kingdom, the holder requires a temporary resident visa.
• If the document states that the holder is "subject to control under the Immigration Act, 1971," and there is a further endorsement that reads "Indefinite leave to enter and remain in the United Kingdom," the passport is acceptable for travel to Canada; however, intending temporary residents with this endorsement require a temporary resident visa.
• If the document states that the holder is "subject to control under the Immigration Act, 1971" with no further endorsements, the passport is an acceptable travel document for travel to Canada; however, intending temporary residents with this endorsement require a temporary resident visa.)
• or, an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number of the individual.

Purpose of travel:

Foreign nationals travelling for the following specified purposes are exempted from the requirement to obtain a temporary resident visa:

• Those travelling to Canada as a member of a crew of a means of transportation other than a vessel or to become a member of a crew of a means of transportation other than a vessel, or to transit through Canada after working, or to work, as a member of a crew of a means of transportation other than a vessel, if they possess a ticket for departure from Canada within 24 hours after their arrival in Canada;
• Those travelling to Canada to transit as a passenger on a flight stopping in Canada for the sole purpose of refueling and is in possession of a visa to enter the United States and his/her flight is bound for that country, or he/she was lawfully admitted to the United States and his/her flight originated in that country;
• Those travelling to Canada to carry out official duties as a member of the armed forces of a country that is a designated state for the purposes of the Visiting Forces Act ;
• Those travelling to Canada to conduct inspections of the flight operation procedures or cabin safety of a commercial air carrier operating international flights;
• Those travelling to Canada to participate as an accredited representative or as an adviser to an aviation accident or incident investigation conducted under the Canadian Transportation Accident Investigation and Safety Board Act ;
• Participants to the Transit Without Visa Program and the China Transit Program:

Note : As some countries allow non-nationals to join their military, to qualify for the visa exemption under the Visiting Forces Act the foreign national must be a member of the military of a designated country under the Visiting Forces Act , however, they do not need to be a national of that country.

Most foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries now require an eTA to travel to or transit through Canada.

For a full, up-to-date listing of all foreign nationals that are exempt from the requirement to hold an eTA, visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website .

All temporary resident permits are printed in Canada; however, under certain circumstances they may be issued at a Canadian mission overseas in advance of a foreign national's arrival in Canada. When issued overseas, a visa-required foreign national will have a visa counterfoil placed inside of their travel document. Foreign nationals that are eTA-required will have an eFoil linked to their travel document. This eFoil is not a physical document, instead, it functions in a similar manner to an eTA and will allow the foreign national to be verified through the CBSA's Interactive Advance Passenger Information System.

Once the foreign national arrives at the port of entry the CBSA officer will process and print the temporary resident permit. The printed permit is not a travel document, even though it may authorize re-entry to Canada. If the temporary resident permit holders leave Canada, they are subject to regular document requirements.

Foreign nationals that are granted entry to Canada as a temporary resident may travel to Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon or the United States without obtaining a new temporary resident visa or eTA , provided that they travel solely to one of the aforementioned territories before seeking re-entry to Canada and are still within the period of their authorized stay, which would normally be within 6 months of their entry into Canada or within the expiry date indicated in their Canadian issued work or study permit.

This re-entry condition does not apply if the foreign national exits the aforementioned territories for any reason, such as cruise ships or other vessels that briefly enter international waters.

In addition, travellers that are granted entry into Canada for a period of less than six months, or travellers who have extended their stay after arrival, may be issued a visitor record ( IMM1442 ). Holders of a valid visitor record may also travel to Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon or the United States without obtaining a new temporary resident visa or eTA , provided that they travel solely to one of the aforementioned territories before seeking re-entry to Canada and are still within the period of authorized stay.

5. Crew Members

Foreign nationals entering Canada as crew members, or to become members of a crew, must join the vessel or other means of transportation within the period imposed or, if no period is imposed, within 48 hours. Crew members must leave Canada within 72 hours after ceasing to be crew members.

A transporter must immediately notify a CBSA officer at the nearest port of entry when a foreign national granted entry as, or to become, a crew member fails to become or ceases to be a crew member. This information must be provided in writing at the request of an officer. Persons cease to be members of a crew if:

• they have deserted or an officer has reasonable grounds to believe that they have deserted;
• they have been hospitalized and have failed to return to the vehicle or to leave Canada within 72 hours after leaving the hospital; or
• they have been discharged or are otherwise unable or unwilling to perform their duties as a member of a crew and failed to leave Canada within 72 hours after the discharge or after they first became unable or unwilling to perform their duties.

Regardless of the circumstances, commercial transporters are liable for all costs related to the departure and removal of their crew members from Canada. They are also liable for the costs of all medical treatment administered in Canada. If a crew member remains in Canada illegally after ceasing to be, or failing to become a crew member, the commercial transporter is liable to pay an administration fee.

Exemptions from passport requirement

The following do not require a passport:

• Foreign nationals travelling to Canada as, or to become crew members of an aircraft and who hold an airline flight crew license or a crew member certificate issued in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization specifications; and
• Foreign nationals arriving in Canada as crew members of a vessel who hold a seafarer's identity document issued under International Labour Organization conventions. These individuals do require a passport, however, if travelling to Canada by air or by other means for the purpose of becoming a member of the crew of a vessel which is already in Canada.

Exemptions from temporary resident visa requirement

The following do not require a temporary resident visa:

• Foreign nationals who seek to enter Canada as, or to become crew members of an aircraft, train or bus; or
•  Foreign nationals who seek to transit through Canada after working, or to work, as crew members of an aircraft, train or bus if they possess a ticket to depart Canada within 24 hours of their arrival; or
• Foreign nationals who are carried to Canada by a vessel of which they are crew members and are seeking to enter Canada as a crew member of that vessel and to remain in Canada solely as a crew member of that vessel or any other vessel. These individuals do require a visa, however, if they are seeking to enter Canada to join a vessel as a crew member and are citizens of a country whose citizens require a temporary resident visa.

Employment letters containing ship-joining instructions do not meet the documentary requirements for crew members. Carriers should not board persons presenting such letters unless the holders also carry the passports and visas required for travel to Canada.

Exemption from work permit requirement

Foreign nationals working as crew members of ships in Canada do not require a work permit, provided that the ship on which they are employed, or are to join, is of foreign registry and is engaged in international transportation or other activities. Crew members may not, however, work aboard vessels which require coasting trade licenses or perform dockside functions such as the loading or unloading of cargo, without a work permit. Foreign nationals working as crew members aboard any ship of Canadian registry (e.g. fishing vessel, research vessel or pleasure yacht) require a work permit. For more information see Section 5, Crew Members.

Exemption from eTA requirement

The following are exempt from the requirement to obtain an eTA:

• Foreign nationals seeking to enter Canada as a member of a crew or to become a member of a crew of an aircraft; and
• Foreign nationals seeking to enter and remain in Canada solely to transit through Canada after working, or to work, as a member of a crew of an aircraft, provided that they possess a ticket for departure from Canada within 24 hours of their arrival.

Minor children are subject to the same travel document and visa/eTA requirements as adults.

When travelling with children, a consent letter is strongly recommended and may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving a foreign country or by Canadian officials when re-entering Canada. The letter should contain:

• authorization for the child to travel with another person and to be outside the country;
• the name and telephone number of the parents/guardian; and
• the destination and length of stay in Canada.

Adoptive parents, legal guardians or persons separated or divorced are advised to keep legal and other relevant documents available in order to clarify custody rights.

If you suspect child abduction, you should establish whether or not the traveller possesses a consent letter for travel with the child. If an adult claims to be a parent with legal custody, ask him or her to produce a copy of a separation or divorce agreement, or a custody order.

You can refer to the Canada's Missing website to verify whether or not a child has been listed. Police authorities in the country of embarkation may also be able to provide assistance in this regard.

Refer to the Government of Canada's travel website for more Information on travelling with children.

Part 5 – Document Examinations

When examining documents presented by a person for travel to Canada, check them carefully to determine that they are:

• genuine and unaltered;
• valid (not expired); and
• being used by the rightful holder (the photograph and personal details are those of the person in front of you).

Step 1: Examine the cover

• Is the document from an actual country or one that does not exist?
• Are the printing, coat of arms and cover material of high quality?

Step 2: Examine the binding

• Are the cover and passport pages properly aligned both at the cover and the edge of the passport?
• Is the binding consistent and tight?

Step 3: Count the pages

• The passport generally states how many pages it contains. Count them to ensure they are all there and in sequence.
• The colours and page number positions should be consistent from page to page.
• Perforated passport numbers should line up perfectly. Laser perforations will decrease in size with the largest holes at the beginning of the document and the smallest holes at the end.

Step 4: Assess the quality of the paper

• Watermarks should be visible only when examining a single passport page through transmitted light. They should not be visible when the page lies against the other passport pages.
• Look for ultraviolet features such as ink fluorescence and security threads on all pages of the document.

Step 5: Assess the quality of the printing

• Check for malformations, breaks or merging of letters.

Step 6: Biographical data page

• Make sure the physical description matches the individual presenting the document. Pay particular attention to age, height and eye colour.
• Check the expiry date for validity and examine the date for alterations.
• Examine any optically variable devices, such as metal patches displaying movement and optically variable ink, for colour change.
• Spelling should be accurate. Counterfeit documents often have spelling errors.

Step 7: Examine the photograph

• Does the picture match the person in front of you? (See also Section 3.3 Identifying impostors.)
• Check for signs of disturbance around the photo (especially where the photo is closest to the edge of the passport). The photo should be evenly trimmed and should not have scissor cuts around the edges.
• If the photo is a digital image, make sure the image is of high quality and has good definition.
• Do the stamps or dry seals on the picture show any signs of irregularity, such as badly matched lines or lettering, or differences in ink colour on the portion of the stamp that overlaps the photo?

When examining a passport, you should also look for a temporary resident visa if one is required (see www.cic.gc.ca for lists of countries and territories whose citizens require a temporary resident visa).

Here are a few steps that will help establish the authenticity of a temporary resident visa.

• Check the name on the visa and make sure it matches the name on the passport. A different name indicates that the visa has been removed from another passport.
• Ensure the temporary resident visa is still valid and has not expired.
• Verify whether the temporary resident visa is for a single entry or multiple entries. If it is a single entry, ensure it has not already been used for travel. A diagonal line drawn across the visa indicates that the visa has already been used; you can also check the passport for a stamp indicating a date of entry to Canada that is between the date the visa was issued and the date it expires.
• Look for signs of tampering such as tears in the paper or smudges in the ink, specifically around the passport number and the name areas.
• Kinegram OVD: fine details and colour shifting;
• Die cutting/shatter cuts: A maple leaf out on the left edge;
• Intaglio printing: "feel of steel" over the words Canada and Visa ;
• Latent image: Hidden design/text within Intaglio;
• Exploding font/growing numbers on the right edge.

An impostor is someone who carries genuine, unaltered documents that belong to someone else. If you suspect a person is an impostor, take the following steps.

• Examine the document in the presence of the holder;
• Divide the face into segments: eyes, ears, mouth, nose, shape of the face (jaw line) and any distinguishing features; and
• Compare each of the person's features with the photo of the document. Check distances between mouth and nose, nose and chin, and the alignment of the eyes to ears and mouth to ears.

Remember that hair and weight can change over time and are not reliable for impostor identification.

Part 6 – Transit Without Visa and China Transit Programs

The CBSA and IRCC have established the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) Program. The program allows certain foreign nationals to transit a participating Canadian international airport, on their way to and from the United States, without a Canadian temporary resident visa or eTA if they meet specific requirements.

Foreign Nationals from the following countries qualify for the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) Program:

• Taiwan (Taiwan passport holders who do not qualify for the visa exemption to visit Canada may still benefit from the TWOV program)
• Philippines

All foreign nationals who qualify for the TWOV Program must also meet these conditions:

• They hold a valid passport or travel document issued by the country of which they are a citizen;
• They had a valid U.S. visa to enter the United States;
• They travel to Canada on an approved airline;
• They transit through an approved Canadian airport; and
• They depart Canada within 24 hours of arrival.

Travellers whose flight is cancelled or delayed and whose layover is more than 24 hours are no longer eligible to transit Canada under the TWOV Program and must proceed to a CBSA officer for examination.

In addition to the conditions above, there are specific program requirements depending on whether a TWOV eligible foreign national is travelling to the United States or travelling from the United States.

For additional information, consult Transit Without Visa Program .

The China Transit Program ( CTP ) is similar in principle to the TWOV Program. The CTP permits certain Chinese nationals to transit a participating Canadian international airport on their way to or from the U.S. without a Canadian temporary resident visa or eTA if they meet the following requirements:

• They hold a valid passport issued by the People's Republic of China;
• They depart Canada within 24 hours of arrival.

Travellers whose flight is cancelled or delayed and whose layover is more than 24 hours are no longer eligible to transit Canada under the CTP and must proceed to a CBSA officer for examination.

In addition to the conditions above, there are specific program requirements depending on whether a CTP-approved Chinese national is travelling to the United States or travelling from the United States.

For additional information consult China Transit Program .

Part 7 – Trusted Traveller Programs

The CBSA trusted traveller programs provide low-risk travellers with an alternative means of examination when crossing the border. Approved members use automated self-serve kiosks at participating airports, dedicated lanes at land border sites and telephone reporting in the marine mode to clear the border with minimal delays. Program participants must comply with the requirements of the IRPA and IRPR, the Customs Act and Regulations and laws/regulations enforced by the CBSA and its U.S. counterpart, Customs and Border Protection, for bilateral programs.

The NEXUS program is jointly administered by the CBSA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. To benefit from expedited passage, citizens and permanent residents of Canada and the U.S. who are holding a valid NEXUS card must enter Canada or the United States at a NEXUS designated lane . However, the NEXUS card can also be used to prove identification and denote citizenship:

• By air : can be used as a primary travel document by citizens of the U.S. and Canada coming from the United States only— using automated self-serve kiosks available at designated international airports;
• At land and marine ports of entry : can be used as a primary travel document by citizens of the U.S. and Canada in all lanes or marine ports of entry.

If you are not a NEXUS member or are transporting persons into Canada that are not NEXUS members, you must use conventional processing lanes.

Regardless of mode of transportation, Canadian and United States PR s must also present a valid PR card (or other valid proof of permanent resident status) and passport.

Note : Only one citizenship is listed on a NEXUS card. As such, when using non-NEXUS lanes, members with dual citizenship may be required to present proof of their second citizenship. NEXUS members must always comply with all document requirements.

CANPASS offers a suite of domestic programs. CANPASS-Air is a domestic trusted traveller program administered solely by the CBSA and is available only for travellers using commercial air carriers. Members of the program are able to use self-serve kiosks at eight Class 1 airports in Canada to expedite their border clearance procedures. Members are issued a CANPASS Air membership card and have their iris biometric photographed, which facilitates their use of the automated kiosks. Program guidelines indicate that members must carry appropriate documents to confirm their identity and citizenship/permanent resident status, such as a Canadian passport or a Canadian permanent resident card. The program does not offer members expedited passage privileges in other modes of transportation.

CANPASS Private and Corporate Air are programs from the CANPASS suite which are administered solely by the CBSA and are designed to facilitate and expedite the passage of Canadian and United States citizens and permanent residents arriving in Canada using non-commercial carriers at designated airports. Members of these programs must carry appropriate documents to confirm their identity and citizenship/permanent resident status, such as a Canadian passport or a Canadian permanent resident card, and the memberships cannot be used to expedite passage when using commercial carriers.

CANPASS Private Boats is also solely administered by the CBSA and is designed to facilitate and expedite the marine arrival of Canadian and United States citizens and permanent residents arriving in Canada on private watercraft. Members of these programs must carry appropriate documents to confirm their identity and citizenship/permanent resident status, such as a Canadian passport or a Canadian permanent resident card, and the membership cannot be used to expedite the passage in other modes of transportation.

Part 8 – Support to Transporters

This guide is one of several CBSA initiatives to help transporters meet their obligations under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations .

This section outlines the other types of support offered by the CBSA.

Overseas, a transporter's point of contact is the closest Canadian mission. CBSA Liaison Officers (LOs) are specially trained officers stationed at selected embassies and consulates around the world. They are mandated to gather information on illegal migration trends in their area and to provide support and assistance to transporters.

This support may include training transporter staff who are directly responsible for document screening, responding to transporter inquiries regarding problematic situations, and providing advice to boarding agents at airports. It is important to note that the support offered by the LO network is focused on document screening and fraud detection. Transporters and their staff should refrain from contacting LOs for technical questions (such as visa requirements), or to simply have an LO validate their decision to board or deny boarding to a passenger.

The CBSA offers training and assistance to transporter personnel for the following: Canadian document requirements; document screening; fraud detection; security measures (marine); and the use of technical aids, such as ultraviolet lights. Requests for training should be addressed to the appropriate CBSA LO.

The CBSA aims to keep transporters informed of the latest illegal migration trends. Transporters are encouraged to contribute intelligence data by reporting all confirmed interceptions, either to the CBSA or to another contact person at a Canadian embassy or consulate abroad.

1. Canada – Regular Passport

Image is of the navy blue cover and the first page of a specimen Canadian passport. The cover has the Royal Arms of Canada emblazoned in the centre. The words " passport/passeport " and the international e-passport symbol are inscribed below the coat of arms, and the word " Canada " above. The first page includes the photo of the holder, the passport type, issuing country, passport number, the issuance and expiry dates of the passport and this biographical information: first and last name, nationality, date of birth, sex, place of birth and signature. The passport page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

New design as of June 18, 2023

The front cover of the new passport booklet is shown with various maple leaf design elements. The personal information page is shown, which features maple leaves and other security features.

2. Canada – Special Passport

Image is of the dark green cover and the first two pages of a specimen Canadian passport. The cover has the Royal Arms of Canada emblazoned in the centre. The words " special passport/passeport spécial " and the international e-passport symbol are inscribed below the coat of arms, and the word " Canada " above. The first page includes a small photo of the holder, an emblem of small flags across the top and a bar code. The second, main page, includes the passport type, issuing country, passport number, the issuance and expiry dates of the passport and this biographical information: first and last name, nationality, date of birth, sex, place of birth and signature. The passport page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

3. Canada – Temporary Passport

Image is of the white cover and the first page of a specimen Canadian passport. The cover has the Royal Arms of Canada emblazoned in the centre. The words "temporary passport/passeport provisoire" are inscribed below the coat of arms, and the word "Canada" above. The first page includes the photo of the holder, the passport type, issuing country, passport number, the issuance and expiry dates of the passport and this biographical information: first and last name, nationality, date of birth, sex, place of birth and signature. The passport page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

4. Canada – Emergency Travel Document

Image is of the whole page of a specimen Canadian emergency travel document. The document includes: the word "Canada" at the top, a bar code, the photo of the holder, the passport type, the issuing country, the passport number, the issuance and expiry dates of the passport and biographical information. It also includes information about the intended trip including the destination country, reason for travel, date of issuance and the signature of the issuing officer.

5. Canada – Single Journey Travel Document

Image is of a form, issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (formerly Citizenship and Immigration Canada). Information required includes the location travelled from, port of departure, port of entry, date of departure, flight number, name and signature of Canadian officer. It also provides boxes for a port of entry stamp, the counterfoil Visa, and a photograph of the traveller.

6. Canada – Single Journey Travel Document for Resettlement to Canada

Image is of a form, issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Immigration Canada (formerly Citizenship and Immigration Canada). The form has a box that must be completed by an authorized agent. Information required includes the location travelled from, port of departure, port of entry, date of departure, flight number, name and signature of Canadian officer. It also provides boxes for a port of entry stamp, the specimen visa of the traveller and the signature of the Canadian visa officer. At the bottom, it provides the Government of Canada address where the form must submitted.

7. Canadian Certificate of Identity

Image is of the grey cover and the first page (test) of this document. The cover has the words " certificate of identity/certificat d'identité " and the word " Canada " above. The test page includes the photo of the holder, the passport type, issuing country, passport number, the issuance and expiry dates of the passport and various biographical information: first and last name, nationality, date of birth, sex, place of birth and signature. The document ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

8. Canada – Travel Document

Image is of the navy blue cover and the first page (specimen) of this document. The cover has the words " travel document/titre de voyage ". The international e-passport symbol is inscribed below the words and the word " Canada " above. The specimen page includes the photo of the holder, the passport type, issuing country, passport number, the issuance and expiry dates of the passport and various biographical information: first and last name, nationality, date of birth, sex, place of birth and signature. The page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

9. Canada – Visa

Image is of two specimen documents. The first, the new visa card, features the name "Canada" along with information including date and place of issuance as well as the expiry date. There is also biographical information including name of holder and passport number. The document has a mélange of grey, pink and blue colouring and ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

The second document, an older version of the visa card, features the name "Canada" along with information including the date and place of issuance as well as the expiry date. There is also biographical information including name of holder and passport number. The document has a mélange of grey, pink and blue colouring and ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

10. Canada – Permanent Resident Card

Image is of two specimen cards: an old and a new version of the document. Each has two pages. The new version's first page includes: Government of Canada word mark, photo of the holder, the document type, ID number, issue and expiry dates, holder's birthdate, nationality and sex. The second page includes a smaller version of the photo, a bar code, and other information. This page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

The old version's first page includes: Government of Canada word mark, photo of the holder, the document type, ID number, issue and expiry dates, holder's birthdate, nationality and sex. The second page includes a smaller version of the photo, a bar code, other information. This page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

11. Canada – Secure Certification of Indian Status

Image is of two specimen cards: an old and a new version of the document. Each has two pages. The first is the new version of the Canada – Secure Certification of Indian Status card. The first page includes: the Canada wordmark alongside the words "Indian and Northern Affairs Canada", a photo of the holder, the document type, issuing country, registration number, the issuance and expiry dates of the document, and biographical information such as the cardholder name and First Nation or band name. The second page includes a smaller photo of the card holder, two barcodes, a phone number (should the card be lost) and the Canada word mark. This page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

The second document is the older version of the Canada – Secure Certification of Indian Status card. The first page includes: the Canada wordmark alongside the words "Indian and Northern Affairs Canada", a photo of the holder, the document type, issuing country, registration number, the issuance and expiry dates of the document, and biographical information such as name and First Nation or band name. The second page includes a smaller photo of the card holder, two bar codes, a phone number (should the card be lost) and the Canada wordmark.

12. Canada – Diplomatic Passport

Image is of the dark brown cover and the first two pages of a specimen document. The cover has the Royal Arms of Canada emblazoned in the centre. The words " diplomatic passport/passeport diplomatique " and the international e-passport symbol are inscribed below the coat of arms, and the word " Canada " above. The first page includes a small photo of the holder, an emblem of small flags across the top and a bar code. The second, main page includes the passport type, issuing country, passport number, the issuance and expiry dates of the passport and various biographical information: first and last name, nationality, date of birth, sex, place of birth and signature. This page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

13. Canada – Acceptance Counterfoil (Global Affairs Canada)

Image is of one specimen page, in tones of light orange, blue and green. It has the Royal Arms of Canada emblazoned in the top left hand corner with the words "Canada" and “Acceptance/Acceptation”. The document includes: biographical information including name, date of birth, country and passport number; date of issuance and expiry date; and Chief of Protocol. It is to be signed by the Chief of Protocol and immigration officer.

14. NEXUS Card

Image is of two sides of a sample card. The first includes the word "NEXUS" at the top with a symbol of the globe in the top right hand corner. Alongside a photo of the holder is biographical information including: name, date of birth, citizenship, sex, expiration date, issuing country. The other side includes a bar code on the upper right corner, and on the top left corner is date of issuance and "PASSID" or ID number. This card ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

15. U.S. – Passport Card

Image is of the first two sides of a sample card. The front of the card features a complex multi-layer hologram consisting of an American bald eagle in grey. At the top are the words "United States of America" and "Passport Card" with the US flag in the background. Alongside the photo of the holder is biographical information including their name, date and place of birth, nationality, sex and information about the card including the passport card number, issuance and expiry date.

16. U.S. – Permanent Resident Card

The second document, an old version of the U.S. Permanent Resident Card, is blue and green with a background of the Statue of Liberty, has "The United States of America, permanent resident" across the top. Information includes a photo, name, gender, date of birth, finger print and dates when residence started and when the card expires.

The third document, another old version of the U.S. Permanent Resident Card which is very light yellow, has "permanent resident card" across the top along with the holder's name. Other information includes: photo of holder, birthdate, country of birth, dates indicating when residence started and when the card expires and a finger print. At the bottom of the card is a Machine Readable Zone.

17. U.S. – Passport

Image is of two specimen documents: an old and a new version of the document. The first, the new version of the U.S. Passport, has the navy blue cover and the first two pages of a specimen document. The cover has the Coat of Arms of the United States of America on it and the word "passport" at the top. The bottom features "United States of America" and the international e-passport symbol. The first page has no text, a pale blue background, a photo of the holder on the left hand side, embossed serial number running vertically on the right hand side and a signature line at the bottom of the page. The second page includes the words "The United States of America". The top left corner says "passport" repeated in French and Spanish, and the letters "USA" in gold colour. There is a photo of the holder on the left and the rest of the card features biographical information (name, date and place of birth) as well as information about the document (passport number, data and place of issuance, type of document), and an embossed serial number running vertically on the right hand side. This page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

The second, an older version of the U.S. Passport, has the black cover and the first two pages of a specimen document. The cover has the Coat of Arms of the United States of America on it and the words "passport" at the top. The bottom features "United States of America" and the international e-passport symbol. The first page has no text but drawings of a white eagle, stalks of wheat and the American flag. It includes the words "We the People" and, underneath, "Of the United States". The second page continues the image of the eagle and the flag. It includes the words "The United States of America". The top left corner says "passport" repeated in French and Spanish. There is a photo of the holder on the left and the rest of the card features biographical information (name, date and place of birth) as well as information about the document (passport number, data and place of issuance, type of document). The letters "USA" in gold colour are in the bottom right corner. This page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

18. U.S. – Visa

Image is of one page of a sample document. The word “visa” is written on the pale red USA map, while the words “United States of America” occupies the top of the visa. On the left is a photo of the holder; in the middle of the document is information, including control number, issuing post name, sex, birthdate, nationality, passport number, the issuance and expiry dates. Background picture in pale blue is a landmark in San Francisco CA – the Golden Gate bridge, and a pale coloured American flag to its left side.

19. European Union (EU) Laissez-Passer

Image is of the blue cover and the first page of a specimen European Union Laissez-Passer. The cover has a circle of 12 gold stars emblazoned in the centre. The words "EUROPEAN UNION" are written in various languages and the international e-passport symbol are inscribed below. The first page includes the photo of the holder, the type, code, laissez-passer number, first and last name, nationality, date of birth, sex, place of birth, date of issuance, issuing authority, date of expiry, and signature of holder. The passport page ends with a Machine Readable Zone.

20. CBSA form BSF 575, entitled "Receipt for Prescribed Document under Section 260 of the IRPR."

Image is of a form with the Canada wordmark and words "Canada Border Services Agency/ Agence des services frontaliers du Canada " in the top left corner. The words "Receipt for prescribed document under R260/ Récépissé de document réglementaire sous r260 ” are at the top of the form. There are spaces for the following information: name used and UCI of the passenger filling out the form, date and place of embarkation, document number and country, name of transporter and flight number, signature of passenger and of company official, and employee ID. At the bottom of form are three paragraphs – two are excerpts from the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (subsections 260(1) and 260(2) and one is from the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (paragraph 148 (1)(b).

21. CBSA form BSF 453, entitled "Confirmation by Transporter Regarding Passenger(s) Carried."

Image is of a form with the Canada wordmark and the words "Canada Border Services Agency/ Agence des services frontaliers du Canada " in the top left corner. The file number and date are to go in the top right corner. The name of the implicated airline is to go in the sender's address. The letter begins with the title " notice of assessment " in capitals. The introductory paragraph says the following: "Pursuant to subsection 278(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations , an administrative fee is hereby assessed against the aforementioned transporter against the foreign national mentioned below." There are places where information regarding the foreign national is required, including: name, alias, country of citizenship, date of arrival, flight number and transportation violation as well as for the estimated assessment fee and the name of the CBSA officer.

22. CBSA form BSF 577 entitled "Official Receipt – Cash Security Deposited by a Transporter"

Image is of a form with the Canada wordmark and words "Canada Border Services Agency/ Agence des services frontaliers du Canada " in the top left corner. The words "official receipt Cash security deposited by a transporter/ reçu officiel Garantie versée par un transporteur " are at the top of the form. The following information is required: K10 number (if applicable), FOSS ID no., sum received, name of depositor, name of transporter, name of vehicle, date of arrival, signature of officer. Next is a section entitled "power of attorney, power of attorney when given by an incorporated company/procuration, procuration donnée par une société constituée" where the information required includes: name and address of incorporated company, date of endorsement and signature (with title) of attorney.

23. Visitor Record – IMM1442

Image is of two specimen documents. The first, the new Visitor Record – IMM1442 is pale red and green. The document includes: the Canada word mark and words "Citizenship and Immigration Canada/ Citoyenneté et immigration Canada " in the top left corner and the word "Canada" is placed right underneath. At the same level to the right is the document's serial number in red and directly below is the document number used by CBSA systems. The applicant's address and the application reference number is found underneath. Next is a section entitled “Study Permit/ Permis D'Études ” with one sub-section titled “Client information/ Information du client ” that lists family name, given name, date of birth, sex, country of birth, country of citizenship and travel document number. The following sub-section is titled “Additional Information/ Information supplémentaire ” that lists date issued, expiry date, case type and In Force From. The bottom half of the page includes the words: “Conditions 1. Unless authorized, prohibited from engaging in employment in Canada” and “Remarks Observations: These are the user remarks for the VR-EXT document”. The last line on the page is: “This does not authorize re-entry/ Ceci n'autorise pas la ré-entrée ”.

The second document, an older version of the Visitor Record – IMM1442 is pale green. The document includes: the Canada word mark and words "Citizenship and Immigration Canada/ Citoyenneté et immigration Canada " in the top left corner and the word "Canada" in a red box is placed right underneath. At the same level to the right is the document's serial number in red and directly below is the document number used by CBSA systems. The applicant's address and the application reference number is found underneath. Next is a section entitled “Visitor Record/ Fiche de visiteur ” with one sub-section titled “Client information/ Information du client ” that lists family name, given name, date of birth, sex, country of birth, country of citizenship and travel document number. The following sub-section is titled “Additional Information/ Information supplémentaire ” that lists date issued, expiry date, case type and In Force From. The bottom half of the page includes the words: “Conditions 1. Unless authorized, prohibited from engaging in employment in Canada” and “Remarks Observations: These are the user remarks for the VR-EXT document”. The last line on the page is: “This does not authorize re-entry/ Ceci n'autorise pas la ré-entrée ”.

23.  CBSA form BSF 577 entitled "Official Receipt – Cash Security Deposited by a Transporter"

CBSA form BSF 577 entitled "Official Receipt – Cash Security Deposited by a Transporter"

Image is of a form with the Canada wordmark and words "Canada Border Services Agency Agence des services frontaliers du Canada" in the top left corner. The words " official receipt Cash security deposited by a transporter/RECU OFFICIEL Garantile versée par un transporteur" are at the top of the form. The following information is required: K10 number (if applicable), FOSS ID no., sum received, name of depositor, name of transporter, name of vehicle, date of arrival, signature of officer. Next is a section entitled " power of attorney, power of attorney when given by an incorporated company ∙procuration, procuration doneé par une société constitueé " where the information required includes: name and address of incorporated company, date of endorsement and signature (with title) of attorney.

24.  Visitor Record – IMM1442

Visitor Record – IMM1442

Image is of the whole page of a specimen Canadian document. The document includes: the Canada word mark and words "Citizenship and Immigration Canada Citoyenneté et immigration Canada" in the top left corner and the word "Canada" in a red box is placed right underneath. At the same level to the right is the document's serial number in red and directly below is the document number used by CBSA systems. The applicant's address and the application reference number is found underneath. Next is a section entitled “Visitor Record Fiche de visiteur” with one sub-section titled “Client information Information du client” that lists family name, given name, date of birth, sex, country of birth, country of citizenship and travel document number. The following sub-section is titled “Additional Information Information supplémentaire” that lists date issued, expiry date, caste type and In Force From. The bottom half of the page includes: the words “Conditions 1. Unless authorized, prohibited from engaging in employment in Canada” and “Remarks Observations: These are the user remarks for the VR-EXT document”. The last line on the page is: “This does not authorize re-entry Ceci n'autorise pas la ré-entrée”.

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Home » Immigration Q&A » What is a Single Journey Travel Document (IMM 5565 – SJTD)?

What is a Single Journey Travel Document (IMM 5565 – SJTD)?

The world of immigration is full of twists and turns. Regardless, the immigration authorities must come up with solutions for each of them. The Single Journey Travel Document (SJTD – IMM 5565B) is one of those solutions.

Who is a stateless person?

• What is an SJTD anyway?

Are there any other uses for a Single Journey Travel Document?

Ask your immigration questions.

A stateless person is someone who is not a citizen of any country. As the UN Refugee Agency ( UNHCR ) portrayed, a stateless person is someone that no State accepts as their national. Of course, most people are nationals of at least one country by birth. This could be either because of their place of birth (e.g. Canada ) or their parents. However, some people get caught in legal loopholes and remain stateless. How could a stateless person travel from one country to another country? While some permanent solutions for this problem, a Single Journey Travel Document (IMM 5565) could temporarily resolve it.

What is an SJTD (IMM 5565) anyway?

Imagine you need to travel to Canada. On the other hand, an immigration officer agrees to issue you a TRP . However, you do not have a passport or a valid travel document. Consequently, the officer attaches the TRP counterfoil to a single-page document. IRCC calls this document IMM 5565 or, as mentioned earlier, the Single Journey Travel Document or SJTD. Of course, they also affix your photo to it and indicate a validity period. Therefore, you could travel to Canada within the validity period only.

Generally speaking, whenever you do not have a passport or travel document, an officer may use an SJTD (IMM 5565) to allow you to travel to Canada. Of course, they use it for special circumstances. For example, imagine a person who has fled their country because of their political views. They may refer to UNHCR, and ultimately IRCC resettles them to Canada . However, if the person does not hold a passport, the officer may issue a Single Journey Travel Document. Consequently, they may travel to Canada with the help of the SJTD.

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A relevant article: PRTD (Permanent Resident Travel Document)

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Al Parsai , LLM, MA, DTM, RCIC Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant Ashton College Instructor – Immigration Consulting Author – 88 Tips on Immigration to Canada

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