The question of whether it is possible to work with an open work permit, which is granted to Ukrainians under the CUAET (Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel) program, is one of the most practical and important for everyone who has come to Canada to start a new life. Even more than that, the right to work is not just an addition to the temporary protection program, but rather its core. Without the right to work, Ukrainians would not be able to support themselves and their families, pay rent, buy groceries, and cover other basic needs. That is why the Canadian government has made the right to work an integral part of the CUAET program. In Edmonton, home to one of the largest Ukrainian communities in Western Canada, thousands of Ukrainians are successfully working with their permits and are an important part of the city's workforce in various sectors of the economy.
The right to work under the CUAET program: key provisions
Absolutely, you can work under the CUAET program, and this is actually one of the main advantages of this program compared to standard tourist visas or student permits. What makes CUAET so unique is that all Ukrainians who arrive in Canada under this program before March 31, 2024, automatically receive the right to a so-called “open work permit.” This means that you have the right to work for any employer in Canada, in any province, in any sector of the economy, without any restrictions on a specific job or a specific employer.
This is radically different from so-called “employer-specific work permits,” which require the employee to declare in official documents that they will work for that specific employer, and if the employee wants to change jobs, they must apply for a new permit. This creates dependence on the employer and allows some employers to exploit workers, knowing that they cannot easily change jobs. However, the CUAET open permit completely eliminates this problem.
When you arrive in Edmonton or any other Canadian city as a CUAET holder, you will receive a document called a “work permit” that states that you are eligible to work in “general employment” or “open work permit” status. This permit is usually issued for a period of three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that if your passport is only valid for two years, the permit will also be issued for two years, even if it is technically possible to issue it for three years.
Restrictions on types of work: what you are allowed to do
Although the right to work under the CUAET is extremely broad and flexible, there are some restrictions and obligations that you need to be aware of. First, there are several types of work that are not permitted under an open work permit, and some that have special restrictions.
Working as a live-in domestic helper, for example, requires a special permit even for CUAET holders, and you cannot simply take such a job with a regular permit. The same applies to jobs in the sex industry or in combat sports. These restrictions are set by Canadian law and apply to all temporary residents, including Ukrainians.
However, most regular work is completely permitted. You can work in retail, restaurants, construction, healthcare, offices, manufacturing, agriculture, services, education, and almost any other industry. For most types of work, CUAET holders have the same rights as Canadian citizens or permanent residents, with the exception of some restrictions on sensitive positions in the public sector or the armed forces.
Some jobs in health care, education, and other fields may require Canadian qualifications or certifications, but this is not a problem specific to CUAET holders—it applies to all people, including Canadian citizens, who want to work in these fields with foreign education.
It is important to understand that working in agriculture or as a seasonal agricultural worker has special rules for CUAET holders. If you want to work in agriculture, you must have visited or lived in Ukraine for more than six months during the previous year. This requirement was established to prevent exploitation and ensure that workers have experience in agriculture.
The work permit process: how to start working
If you arrived in Canada under the CUAET before March 31, 2024, and you already have a work permit, then you already have everything you need to start working. The permit is issued to you upon arrival at the airport or can be obtained a few days after arrival by mail. If you did not receive your permit upon arrival, you will need to contact the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) office in your place of residence to obtain it.
However, if you arrived in Canada under the CUAET but did not apply for an open work permit when you applied for the CUAET, or if you arrived after March 31, 2024, and now want to work, you will need to submit a separate application for an open work permit. This process is done entirely online through the IRCC portal.
When you apply for a work permit, you will need to complete form IMM 5710, “Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay, or Remain in Canada as a Worker,” and some other supporting documents. You will need to provide a copy of your passport, proof of your temporary status in Canada (a copy of your current permit), documents confirming your place of residence in Canada, and some other details.
It is important to fill out the form correctly. When asked “What would you like to do in Canada?”, you need to select “Work.” When asked about the length of your stay, select “Temporarily – more than 6 months.” In the field “What is your current immigration status in Canada?”, select ‘Worker’ and be sure to indicate “Ukraine 2022 public policy—open work permit” in the field “Brief description of duties”.
The processing of a work permit application usually takes from a few weeks to several months, depending on the workload of the IRCC offices. While your application is being processed, you have the right to remain in Canada and, if you already had a permit, to continue working while your application is being processed, even if your current permit has expired. This is called “maintained status” and is one of the great advantages of the Canadian immigration system.
Standard fees and payments for work permits
One thing that has changed over time for CUAET holders is the issue of fees for applying for a work permit. Between March 2022 and December 2024, Ukrainians who arrived in Canada before March 31, 2024, were eligible to apply for an open work permit completely free of charge. This was one of the biggest advantages of the CUAET program.
However, in December 2024, this free service ended. From that point on, if you want to apply for a new work permit or renew an existing one, you will need to pay the standard fees. The standard fees for applying for a work permit are usually $155 for the application itself, plus an additional $100 for processing an open work permit, for a total of $255. In addition, if you need to undergo biometrics (fingerprinting and photographing), this may cost an additional $85, although for many people, biometrics are not required if they have been submitted previously.
This increase in cost was one of the reasons why the Canadian government set new deadlines for submitting applications without additional fees. Until March 31, 2026, you can still apply for a work permit under the special CUAET measures on terms that are slightly better than the regular terms, although the standard fees apply.
Edmonton's job market: industries and opportunities for Ukrainians
Edmonton is a job market with tons of opportunities for Ukrainians who are eligible to work. The city's robust economy, focused on oil and gas, construction, healthcare, retail, food services, and manufacturing, needs a huge number of workers at all skill levels.
Edmonton is always looking for workers in the construction industry. From roofers to electricians, from interior workers to heavy equipment operators, construction companies are constantly hiring. Many Ukrainians, especially men, have found work in this sector, often gaining access to training and certification programs that allow them to quickly move up the ladder and earn higher wages. Salaries in construction in Edmonton range from $18-25 per hour for unskilled workers to $35-50 per hour and above for skilled tradespeople and equipment operators.
There is also a huge demand for staff in the healthcare sector, including hospitals, clinics, and private care centers. Medical assistants, nurses, hospital cleaning staff, and other positions are available for people with varying levels of education. If you have a medical education from Ukraine, you can work in this field in lower positions while you prepare to have your qualifications recognized and obtain Canadian licenses, although this process can be long and complicated.
There is also a constant demand for staff in retail and food service. From working in stores to cooking in restaurant kitchens, from car washing to office cleaning, this sector is one of the most accessible for newcomers who need a job as soon as possible. Salaries in this sector typically range from the minimum wage of $15 per hour to $20-25 per hour for more experienced workers or those in supervisory positions.
There is also a significant amount of work in manufacturing and logistics. Jobs in industrial workshops, warehouses, distribution centers, and transportation logistics often do not require Canadian qualifications and are available to people who are physically fit and willing to work in difficult conditions. Salaries in this sector range from $17-20 per hour for junior positions to $25-30 per hour for skilled operators and coordinators.
For people with higher education and professional qualifications, including engineers, IT specialists, accountants, and other professionals, opportunities are more limited in the short term, as these positions often require Canadian licenses, certifications, or recognition of qualifications. However, many Ukrainians have successfully started lower in the hierarchy, gaining Canadian experience, learning the language, and preparing for recognition of their qualifications while working in lower positions.
How to find a job in Edmonton: practical resources and strategies
One of the first places to start your job search as a CUAET holder is the Canadian Job Bank website at https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/. This is an official federal service that offers free access to a database of thousands of job openings across Canada to everyone, including new immigrants. The platform also has a special section called “Jobs for Ukraine,” where employers who are actively seeking to hire Ukrainians have posted their job openings. This section is extremely useful because employers who post here are often more patient with language barriers and willing to hire people without Canadian experience.
The alis.Alberta.ca portal (Alberta Labour and Immigration Services) also contains a wealth of information about job opportunities in Alberta. On this portal, you can not only find lists of vacancies, but also get detailed information about various professions, including median wages, skill requirements, growth prospects, and training programs. The portal also contains information about the recognition of foreign qualifications and information about labor needs in various sectors of Alberta.
At the local level, in Edmonton itself, there is an organization called the Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA) and other settlement organizations that provide free assistance in finding employment. These organizations often host job fairs, resume and interview preparation workshops, and have connections with local employers. The Centre for Newcomers also specializes in helping newcomers find work and has a program specifically designed to help people adapt to Canadian work culture.
In addition, use general job search portals such as Indeed.ca, Glassdoor.ca, Kijiji Jobs, and LinkedIn. On these platforms, you can set up job alerts based on your keywords and location, and you will be sent emails about new job openings. Many employers post more on these platforms than on specialized sites for newcomers.
Don't neglect your network either. Talk to other Ukrainians in your area, at your church or community organization, and let them know you are looking for work. Very often, the best jobs are found through personal connections and referrals. Many Ukrainians who have been in Edmonton before have connections with employers and can recommend you.
Labor rights and responsibilities of CUAET holders in the workplace
When you work in Canada under the CUAET, you have protections in the workplace that are very similar to those of Canadian citizens. You are guaranteed a minimum wage, which in Alberta is $15 per hour (although some categories of people have a slightly lower minimum wage). You cannot be paid less than this, regardless of your status.
You are also guaranteed premiums for working on holidays and weekends, which usually pay higher wages (often 1.5 times the regular rate). If you are asked to work on a holiday, your employer must offer you compensation. In addition, if you work more than a certain number of hours per day (usually more than 8 hours) or more than a certain number of hours per week (usually more than 40 hours), you must be paid overtime, usually 1.5 or 2 times your regular rate, depending on the province and type of work.
You are also guaranteed sick days, and some employers provide paid vacation time. If you are sick and cannot come to work, you cannot be docked pay for that day if you have paid sick leave. In addition, Canada has a system called Employment Insurance (EI) that provides assistance to people who have lost their jobs for reasons beyond their control (such as business closures or layoffs). CUAET holders are usually eligible for EI if they have worked and contributed to the system.
Canada also has occupational health and safety laws that require employers to provide a safe work environment and follow numerous safety regulations. If you complain about unsafe working conditions, your employer cannot fire or punish you for doing so. You also have the right to refuse to work if you believe the conditions are extremely dangerous.
Language barriers and overcoming them in the workplace
One of the biggest challenges for many Ukrainians who take jobs in Edmonton is the language barrier. Many people come to Canada knowing little or no English. This can be a major obstacle in finding a job and performing the job once it is found.
However, it is important to understand that employers in Canada, especially those who actively hire immigrants, are generally aware of this problem and are prepared for it. Many employers provide in-house training and additional materials to help new workers who do not speak English fluently. In addition, most large cities, including Edmonton, have free English language training programs specifically designed for new immigrants.
The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program is a federal program that provides free, intensive English language courses for newcomers. These courses are organized by local colleges, community centers, and settlement organizations across the country, including Edmonton. Courses are usually held during the day and in the evening, allowing people to balance their studies and work.
NorQuest College in Edmonton also offers ESL (English as a Second Language) courses for various levels, from absolute beginner to advanced. Courses are often cheaper than at private centers and are often subsidized for newcomers. In addition, some employers, especially in construction and manufacturing, organize on-site English classes for their immigrant workers.
A strategy that often works well is to start with a job that is less dependent on fluent English, such as physical work in construction or manufacturing. While you are working and earning money, you can study English in evening classes and do your homework on the weekends. Over time, as your English improves, you can move on to jobs that require better communication skills.
Managing your finances and spending wisely
When you start working in Edmonton and begin earning money, it is important to understand deductions and taxes. Your employer will deduct taxes, insurance, and other mandatory deductions from each paycheck. Typically, your employer will withhold approximately 20-30 percent of your gross pay for taxes (federal and provincial), employment insurance (EI), and pension contributions (CPP — Canada Pension Plan).
This means that if you earn $20 per hour, your net salary (what you actually receive) will be approximately $14-16 per hour. It is important to understand this when planning your budget. In addition, at the end of the year, you must file a tax return (T1 General), even if taxes have already been withheld. In some cases, you may receive a tax refund (rebate) if you have overpaid.
Smart money management is critical to success in a new country. Many Ukrainians, when they start working, will try to help all their friends and family in Ukraine by sending money. While staying in touch with loved ones in Ukraine is important, it is important to understand that you must first provide for yourself and your immediate family in Canada. Rent, food, transportation, and other expenses can add up quickly, and if you send too much money to Ukraine, you may find yourself in financial difficulty in Canada.
It is recommended that you create a budget, identify your basic expenses, and plan how much money you can safely send to Ukraine. In addition, it is important to start building a credit history in Canada. Open a Canadian bank account, get a credit card (even with a modest limit), and make your payments on time. This will help you start building the credit score you will need if you want to take out a mortgage or obtain a large loan in the future.
Career prospects and advancement in Edmonton
For many Ukrainians, working in Edmonton under CUAET is not the ultimate goal, but rather a stepping stone to something bigger. Many people start in a regular job while they learn English, obtain Canadian certifications, and gain Canadian experience. Over time, they can move up to better positions, better pay, and a better career.
In the construction industry, for example, many Ukrainians start as unskilled workers, then go through training programs, become assistants, and then skilled tradespeople. Skilled tradespeople, such as electricians, plumbers, or roofers, can earn $50-80 per hour and are in high demand in the labor market. Some even have their own businesses.
In healthcare, if you have a medical background, you can start as a nursing assistant, then get your qualifications recognized as a nurse or physical therapist if you want, and move on to better positions with higher salaries.
In IT and professional fields, if you have the right education, you can start in lower positions or positions that often do not require full recognition of qualifications, and then build your capabilities and move up.
The key to success in career development in Canada is to invest in yourself. Continue to learn the language, get your foreign qualifications recognized if you need to, take courses and training to improve your skills, and build a network of professional contacts. The more you invest in your development, the more opportunities will be available to you in the future.
Conclusion: work as the foundation of a new life
So, yes, it is absolutely possible to work in Edmonton on a CUAET temporary protection visa, and this is one of the biggest advantages of this program. The right to an open work permit allows Ukrainians to gain experience, earn a living, integrate into Canadian society, and build a foundation for long-term success in their new country.
Although there may be challenges at first, such as language barriers and the need to start in lower-level positions, the vast majority of Ukrainians who come to Canada with a desire to work and improve themselves manage to find jobs, acquire skills, and move up the ladder. Edmonton, with its developed economy and need for labor, is a great place to do this. The most important thing you need to do is be prepared to work hard, be willing to learn, be ready to adapt, and not be too proud to start in positions that may seem below your education or experience. With time, persistence, and investment in yourself, you will build a successful career in Canada.