Over the past few days there has been much talk about the Canadian Government loosening restrictions for the traveling “compassionate grounds”. This means that family members, spouses, certain extended family members, and couples who have been dating for over one year. These are in addition to the border restrictions already in place.
“The updates announced today respond to the needs of Canadian families who have been separated from their loved ones by international borders, some of whom are facing the most difficult period of their lives.”
Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
However, these travelers must still stay for a minimum of 15 days. This time period is based on the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine period. So, in other words, those visiting Canada to visit family members must still adhere to the regular guidelines for travel. The full report is available through the Government of Canada’s website. All this to take effect on October 8th.
International Students
For students, the original restriction stated that, if you had a study permit approved before March 18 of this year you could still come to Canada to study. This covers all student who are traveling for what the Canadian Government calls, “non-discretionary purposes”. This is stated exactly as seen on the Government’s website as the following,
- you already live in Canada
- you need to be in Canada for your program (for laboratory work, workshops, or similar)
- your school isn’t offering online study options
- you can’t study online from your home country because of internet restrictions or bandwidth limitations
- you can’t participate in live online classes from your home country because of the difference in time zones.
Change in restrictions
However, by October 20th the Canadian Government will be changing its restrictions on international student entry into the country. By this time they plan to reopen the borders to international students from outside of Canada. This change applies to all international students, from the United States or otherwise. This limitation to this exception is for those post secondary institutes that have a Covid-19 readiness plan. It is possible that the school you are attending does not have one of these plan, but is unlikely given the circumstances. In any case it is important to communicate with your school before attempting to apply.
So, regardless of when your study permit was approved, you can still study in Canada. However, It’s important when travel to carry proof of exemption. These are documents that proved proof of the reason for traveling to Canada, and ability to complete a 14-day quarantine period. These are documents such as, a valid study permit, and a port of entry letter. It’s important to add that, study permits do not currently have priority for processing. In addition, the Canadian Government can not at this time, provide accurate processing times.
Need Help?
For more information or with help applying for study permits, contact Taraz services through the link.