Here’s the latest changes affecting international students.

International students, both inside Canada and those applying to enter for the 2020 semesters, have seen significant implications due to Canada’s travel restrictions and school closures. Despite this, applications for study permits are still being accepted and processed.

There are some important changes to know as you continue or start your journey as an international student.

1.     Completing biometrics

2.     Undergoing a medical examination

3.     Submitting original travel documents

IRCC has confirmed applications will remain open and will not be refused for non-compliance. The visa office will continue to request additional supporting documents, like above, until documents are received.

Student Direct Stream (SDS)

In order to qualify for SDS and the 20-day processing times, applicants are required to provide their documents upfront, such as medicals and police clearances, if needed. Due to closures, it may not be possible to provide all the required documents upfront for processing under SDS. Applicants who do not have the required documents for the SDS stream upon submitting their application should apply through the regular study permit channels or wait until services resume, and they can provide all of the necessary documents upfront.

Study Permit Extensions

Due to school closures, international students may not be able to obtain their letter of acceptance or enrollment from a DLI. Students applying to extend their status will be allowed to apply without a letter of acceptance or proof of enrollment. Instead, applicants should provide an explanation letter indicating they are unable to submit the requested documents due to school closures. Once these documents are available, applicants must submit them to the visa office using IRCC Webform.

Restoration of Status – Student

Students who need to submit a restoration of their status will be able to do so without an acceptance letter or proof of enrollment. Once these documents are made available, they should submit them using the IRCC Webform.

Compliance with Study Permit Conditions

Students who were studying prior to March 18, 2020, or whose program started in May or June 2020 and whose program is temporarily in an online format will still be considered compliant with their study permit conditions if they remain enrolled in their school and continue to actively pursue studies online.

If your school has closed, students are directed to enroll in a new program of study, change their status or leave Canada. Changing programs, status or leaving Canada should not exceed 150 days from the date the school closed. If you are unable to leave Canada, you must apply to change your status.

Off-campus Work Authorizations

Students who have been forced to drop to part-time studies or take a break in their studies due to COVID-19 can continue to work on or off-campus. They are subject to the authorized number of hours they would have permitted to work as a full-time student—20 hours during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.

IRCC has also removed the condition that allows international students to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions if they are working in an essential service or function, such as health care, critical infrastructure or the supply of food or other critical goods. This change is only in place until August 31, 2020. Guidance on Essential Services and Functions in Canada During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

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