Ottawa reveals details of emergency immigration program for Ukrainian refugees

The federal government announced Thursday a special immigration program that will allow Ukrainian refugees to live and work in Canada for up to three years.

The program, called the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel, waives many of the typical requirements for Canadian visa applications.

Applicants do not have to hold valid passports and family members of Ukrainian refugees "of any nationality" can also apply for temporary Canadian residency through the program.

"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," said Immigration Minister Sean Fraser in a news release.

The Russian invasion that began three weeks ago has triggered an immense exodus of refugees across Ukraine's western borders. It's estimated that three million people have fled the country so far.

The federal government has pledged to take in an "unlimited" number of Ukrainians fleeing the war with Russia.

Ukrainian citizens already in Canada can also apply to extend their stay through the program.

Ottawa says it will waive all fees typically associated with immigration applications for Ukrainians.

The government also has launched a "Jobs for Ukraine" website which will allow employers hoping to support Ukrainian refugees to post available jobs.

Prospective applicants must still provide fingerprints and a photo to the Canadian government.

Do you have questions about Russia's invasion of Ukraine? Send an email to ask@cbc.ca

Ukrainian applicants and their family members will also be exempt from COVID-19 vaccination requirements, although the government says all incoming refugees will be subject to other public health restrictions, including testing and quarantine.

The federal Conservatives and NDP have pressed the government to waive entirely the visa requirement for Ukrainian refugees.

The newly announced program will be the primary pathway for Ukrainian refugees coming to Canada, but some private groups are already working to bring Ukrainians to the country.