Lori Meadows
On October 2, 2020, Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Marco Mendicino announced that Canada would reopen its borders to international students starting October 20, 2020. This decision was made after weeks of lobbying, planning, and preparation by Canada's international educators. International students with valid study permits and registered at Coronavirus-ready institutions were allowed to enter the country. However, they were required to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival and provide proof of their non-discretionary travel. This move was applauded by the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations, which highlighted the challenges faced by students who were previously unable to enter Canada.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of reopening | 20 October 2020 |
| Who can enter? | International students with a valid study permit or who were approved for a study permit on or before 18 March 2020 |
| Institution requirements | Must be attending a designated learning institution (DLI) with a government-approved COVID-19 readiness plan |
| Quarantine requirements | 14-day quarantine upon arrival |
| Travel purpose | Travel must be for an essential (non-discretionary) purpose |
| Documentation | Must provide proof that travel to Canada is non-optional and necessary |
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What You'll Learn
International students need a valid study permit or visa
International students intending to study in Canada are required to obtain a valid study permit or visa before their arrival in the country. This rule applies to most foreign nationals wishing to study in Canada, and the process can be time-consuming and challenging to navigate independently. The study permit is a document issued by the Canadian government, permitting foreign students to attend designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
To obtain a study permit, students must submit a complete application, providing as many supporting documents as possible. Incomplete applications may be rejected or delayed. Required documents may include a letter of acceptance from the educational institution, letters of reference, proof of financial support for the duration of their stay, and a valid passport. Additionally, students may need a provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL) from the province or territory where they plan to study.
The study permit application process can be complex, with strict deadlines and requirements. Seeking guidance from regulated Canadian immigration consultants (RCICs) can help ensure a stress-free experience and increase the likelihood of a successful application. These consultants are knowledgeable about the procedures and can provide valuable support throughout the process.
It is important to note that there may be exemptions from the study permit requirement for certain individuals, such as US citizens and residents of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. However, the final decision rests with the Canadian border services officer. International students are advised to carefully review the requirements and gather all the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth entry into Canada.
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Quarantine requirements for students upon arrival
As of October 20, 2020, Canada opened its borders to international students with study permits enrolled at Coronavirus-ready Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). These DLIs have government-approved COVID-19 readiness plans in place, and they include universities, colleges, and schools.
International students arriving in Canada are subject to specific quarantine requirements to ensure the safety of the community. Here are the key details regarding quarantine for students entering Canada:
Mandatory Quarantine Period:
All travellers entering Canada, including international students, are required to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine period. This quarantine period is essential to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19. Students must provide details about the location of their quarantine and how they plan to manage their basic needs during this time. Failure to present a quarantine plan may result in being denied entry by immigration officials at the airport.
Testing and Temporary Accommodation:
As of February 22, 2021, international students arriving by air are mandated to undergo COVID-19 testing at the airport. While awaiting their test results, students must quarantine for three nights at government-authorized hotels. The cost of this temporary accommodation, including food, is approximately $2000.
Institution-Specific Requirements:
Different educational institutions in Canada have implemented their own quarantine plans and safety measures. For example, NorQuest College in Edmonton, Alberta, has curated a quarantine plan for its international students, providing detailed information on their website. Additionally, Yorkville University in Vancouver has established a COVID-19 Safety Plan to facilitate a safe return to campus, which includes a Health Disclosure Declaration form that must be completed before entering the campus.
It is important to regularly check the websites of your specific educational institution and local health authorities for the most up-to-date information on quarantine requirements and safety protocols. These requirements may evolve based on the ongoing assessment of the COVID-19 situation in Canada.
Travel Restrictions:
It is worth noting that Canada has been adjusting its COVID-19 travel restrictions based on public health considerations. For example, in June 2021, Canada extended restrictions on non-essential international and US travel until July 21. These measures are in place to protect the health and safety of Canadians and travellers alike. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and restrictions before planning your arrival in Canada.
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Travel plans and restrictions for students
On 2 October 2020, Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Marco Mendicino announced that the country would reopen its borders to international students from 20 October 2020. This applied to students attending a designated learning institution (DLI) with a government-approved COVID-19 readiness plan.
International students must meet several requirements before travelling to Canada. Firstly, they must be travelling for an essential (non-discretionary) purpose. Students must also hold a valid study permit or have been approved for a study permit on or before 18 March 2020. Additional reasons for travel to Canada may include internet restrictions or time zone differences that prevent students from studying online from their home country. At the border, students may be asked to provide proof that their reasons for travelling are not optional or discretionary. Moreover, students must be prepared to complete a 14-day quarantine upon arrival at their final destination.
Students are advised to supply as many documents as possible, along with a letter of explanation for any missing documents. However, it is important to note that complete applications will be processed first. All students are required to apply for a study permit before their arrival in Canada, although there are exemptions for US citizens and residents of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. The process can be time-consuming and challenging to navigate independently, so seeking guidance from a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) can be beneficial.
Upon arrival in Canada, all travellers must provide additional details such as contact information and self-assessments during the quarantine period, preferably through the ArriveCan app. Those travelling by air must pass a pre-boarding health check conducted by the airline. Furthermore, any traveller displaying signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival at a port of entry will not be permitted to enter the country.
Quarantine arrangements
Universities, colleges, and language schools are responsible for developing quarantine plans for their students, which must be approved by provincial and federal authorities. For example, the University of Toronto has committed to providing free quarantine accommodations for international students.
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The impact of COVID-19 on Canadian education
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on Canadian education, with school closures, a rise in online learning, and disruptions to the international student sector. Canada's higher education sector represents a significant portion of the country's economy, with 96 universities and over 200 community colleges, including more than 50 Indigenous institutions. In 2017-18, there were approximately 2.1 million post-secondary students, of which about 300,000 were international students.
The pandemic has forced educational institutions to transition to online learning, with most long-term student programs moving to an online format during the winter 2020 semester and continuing through the end of the year. While this shift to online education has been challenging, it has also accelerated the integration of educational technology and provided some students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace. However, online learning has also led to feelings of loneliness and a loss of the benefits of campus-based education, including social interactions with peers.
The impact of COVID-19 on research expenditures in the international educational student sector was relatively minor in 2020, as most research work continued using online collaboration tools. However, the pandemic has resulted in additional costs for both institutions and students, including emergency repatriation of students studying abroad, private accommodations for international students who had to leave student residences, and costs associated with complying with health and safety protocols.
Furthermore, the pandemic has deepened inequalities between families based on household income and wealth, with 51% of Canadians polled believing that it has affected children's access to routine health and wellness services. There are also concerns about the impact of COVID-19 on children's mental health and social and emotional well-being, with 66% of respondents in a survey expressing worry.
In terms of border openings for international students, Canada announced on October 2, 2020, that it would reopen its borders to international students starting October 20, 2020. International students with valid study permits or approved for a study permit before March 18, 2020, and enrolled in a Coronavirus-ready Designated Learning Institution (DLI) were allowed to enter the country. However, students had to meet specific requirements, including travelling for an essential purpose and providing proof of their reasons for travelling to Canada.
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How to apply for a study permit or visa
On 2 October 2020, Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Marco Mendicino announced that the country would reopen its borders to international students from 20 October 2020. International students with valid study permits were allowed to enter Canada if they were enrolled in a Coronavirus-ready Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Before starting your application, it is important to check if you are eligible for a study permit. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. However, there are some exemptions, such as US citizens and residents of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. Additionally, if your passport is expired, you will need to renew it before submitting your application.
Step 2: Gather the required documents
Make sure you have all the necessary documents before applying. This includes a valid passport, proof of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI), and financial support documents. You may also need to provide biometrics, such as fingerprints and photographs. A provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) from the province or territory where you plan to study may also be required.
Step 3: Complete the application form
You can apply for a study permit online by creating an account on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Carefully read the instruction guide before completing your application form. You will need to answer questions and upload the required documents. If you are missing any documents, include a letter of explanation with your application.
Step 4: Pay the fees
After submitting your application, you will be directed to a payment page. Pay the required fees using a Visa Debit card or other accepted payment methods.
Step 5: Check your application status
You can check the status of your study permit application by logging into your account on the IRCC website. The processing centre may request additional information, so it is important to monitor your application closely.
Step 6: Prepare your travel documents
Once your study permit is approved, make sure to gather all the necessary travel documents, including your passport, study permit, and visitor visa (if required). Keep in mind that you may be asked to provide proof of your plans to quarantine upon arrival in Canada.
Applying for a study permit or visa can be a complex process. It is recommended to seek guidance from a regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) to ensure a stress-free application process and increase your chances of success.
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Frequently asked questions
Canada opened its borders to international students on 20 October 2020.
International students must be enrolled at a Coronavirus-ready Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with a government-approved COVID-19 readiness plan. They must also have a valid study permit approved before 18 March 2020, and be able to prove that their travel is non-discretionary.
All travellers entering Canada must quarantine for 14 days and provide additional arrival details, including contact information and self-assessments during the quarantine period. It is recommended that travellers use the ArriveCan app for this.
Travellers showing symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry will not be permitted to enter the country.
Bryn de Chastelain, chair of the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations, has praised the decision, stating that it "will make a tremendous difference for international students here who have not been able to go home or come back to Canada". Paul Davidson, president of Universities Canada, has also welcomed the move, saying that it is "delightful that the closure (of the border) has been lifted in a way that is safe for students and for the communities".
