First Steps After Arrival

Keep originals of your work permit, passport, and port-of-entry stamp in a safe place. Make photocopies and digital scans of every document. You will need these for health card registration, banking, and future immigration applications.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) coordinates settlement support, local resources, and community events for CUAET arrivals across Canada. Use the UCC's CUAET resources page to find local UCC councils, free legal advice for Ukrainians (1-877-873-7875), and settlement resources in your area.

Some provinces waived or reduced the usual 3-month waiting period for provincial health coverage for CUAET holders. Check your province's policy — you may qualify for immediate coverage. Bring your work permit and proof of address when applying.

Even with provincial waivers, there may be a gap before your health card arrives. Get private health insurance to cover this period — some providers offer newcomer plans starting at $2–3/day. Do not go without coverage.

Ukrainian churches, cultural centres, and community hubs offer practical help (translation, job leads, donated goods) and social support. Connect early — isolation is one of the biggest challenges for newcomers.

Newcomers are frequently targeted by rental scams. Never send money without visiting the property in person. Never pay before signing a lease. Use Ukrainian community groups and verified listing sites for referrals. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Contact your local school board to enroll children. Schools provide translation and interpreter support for Ukrainian families. Bring your child's previous school records (translated if possible) and immunization records.

If you have professional credentials from Ukraine, start the recognition process early — it can take months. World Education Services (WES) is the most common credential evaluation organization in Canada.

CUAET open work permits have expiry dates. Check yours now and begin the renewal process well before it expires — processing times can be long. See our work permit extension guide for step-by-step instructions.

IRCC-funded settlement services for Ukrainian temporary residents ended on March 31, 2025. You can use them again once you become a permanent resident. Use the finder to check whether a service is open to you. In the meantime, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, provincial and municipal programs, and community organizations offer language, job and settlement help.

Start researching your options for permanent residency — Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and other pathways. The earlier you plan, the more options you will have.