The Liberal Party of Canada has officially endorsed a resolution calling for the elimination of visa requirements for short-term visits by Ukrainian citizens. This decision was made during the party’s biennial convention, with the resolution published on the party’s official website.
The resolution urges the Canadian government to abolish the visitor visa requirement for Ukrainians traveling for up to 90 days within a six-month period, aligning with policies adopted by European partners. Instead, it proposes that Ukrainians wishing to enter Canada should obtain an electronic visa, a system currently in place for citizens of European Union countries.
According to the resolution, “This approach reaffirms Canada’s leadership and moral obligation to support Ukraine and democratic values.” This statement highlights the party’s commitment to fostering strong ties with Ukraine amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The biennial convention of the Liberal Party, which currently forms the government in Canada, serves as a platform to outline the party’s priorities and strategic direction. This year’s gathering took place in Montreal.
The Liberal Party had previously advocated for a visa-free regime for Ukraine during its 2016 convention, but such measures have yet to be implemented.
In addition to the proposed visa changes, the Canadian government has extended the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program. This initiative allows Ukrainians to live and work legally in Canada, with those who arrived before March 31, 2024, now eligible to apply for a three-year extension of their permits until March 31, 2027.
The Canadian Liberal Party's recent resolution to eliminate visa requirements for short-term Ukrainian visitors reflects ongoing support for Ukraine. The proposed changes aim to align Canada's policies with those of European nations, while also extending existing programs that assist Ukrainian refugees.