To be an international student it is a difficult time and there is no denying for that. Forced to be self-isolation, an overwhelmed social system, with the interruption of classes and student residencies shutting down. We know for those who are far from home this must be an especially trying time. We have created this guide in hopes to navigate the support systems available to them and helping international students living in Canada keep up to date.
As an International Student Coming to Canada:
Canada shutting its borders to all non-essential travel in the initial threat of covid-19. Borders would remain open for international students who had been approved for a study permit or who held a valid study permit that is announced by the Canadian government shortly thereafter when the travel restrictions took effect on March 18, 2020.
International students will still need to obtain valid travel documents in order to enter Canada, in addition to their study permit such as an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).
Travelling Outside of Canada:
Avoid all non-essential travel outside the country; The Canadian government is advising people.
International students should consider whether their home country will allow them to enter who wishing to return their home, how this may affect their eligibility to apply for a post graduate work permit, whether they will be able to re enter Canada in the future.
Housing:
In an effort to protect the student population and flatten the curve, student residences across the country have closed down. Some residences help you to find other accommodations or may make exception for international students.
Those who need to self isolate some hotels are reserving rooms. The hotel guest may stay inside without going into the hotel lobby, hall or any public spaces for 14 days in most cases. Fresh linens and food are being kept outside the room door. Contact immigration agent in Sydney for details about how the crisis will affect your academic year.
From evicting tenants during this time, provinces are ramping up regulations to prevent landlords.
Academics:
Most colleges and universities are planning to finish up the winter semester through online courses, while schools across the country are closed for the foreseeable future. With a laptop and strong internet connection, students should get themselves set up technology and prepare for all of their learning until further notice to take place online.
Many have cancelled final exams and in light of recent circumstances have altered the grading scheme. Contact migration agent in Sydney for details about how the crisis will affect your academic year.
Most colleges and universities continue to help international students by email, phone and through video conferencing but have closed their international centers and most administrative offices are also closed such as registrars.
Employment:
Although it may prove difficult to find jobs at this time, International students may continue to work according to the conditions listed on their study permit. Provinces are shutting down all non-essential business and half of Canadian households are currently reporting job loss.
In general, during the academic term full time students may work 20 hours a week off campus and during holidays and regularly scheduled breaks full time off campus. A student may continue to work 20 hours a week if classes have moved online.
Post Graduate Work Permits:
After completing their studies at a Canadian school, students may continue to apply for a post graduate work permit (PGWP).
Taking too many classes online, studying part time or missing a term of school can disqualify an international students in normal circumstances from obtaining a post graduate work permit after graduation.
Extending your stay:
You may not be able to return to your home country at this time, due to extenuating circumstances. You must apply to extend it if your status as a student has expires or is about to expire. Contact migration agency in Sydney for details about how the crisis will affect your academic year.
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