Canada opening border to international students going to coronavirus-ready institutions

Starting October 20, Foreign students are permitted to travel to Canada if the coronavirus preparedness plan of the study institution is approved by their provincial or territorial health authority.

Designated learning institutions (DLIs), which deal with education in Canada, are required to give detailed reports on their preparatory schemes to the provincial or territorial government. Plans can provide information about how foreign students are advised about health and travel prior to arrival, how they should endorse quarantine plans and include advice or assistance in gaining food and medication during the quarantine. The proposals must therefore allow for the procedure of health and safety in the event of coronavirus being present.

In order for foreign students to settle in Canada after the new measure is in force, they may have to be asymptomatic and require the necessary paperwork to be able to reach Canada. They are deemed to be travelling while at the border for an important reason unless “information is given that they are specifically arriving in Canada for an optional or arbitrary purpose, as for example tourism.”

The immediate family members of the students I may still come to Canada as long as they are required to move, such as being in Canada to facilitate the student’s programme of study. In this scenario, a wife and common-law husband, dependents or a father or legal guardian whether a student has under 18 years old are included in the extended family.

Both public health initiatives, including the requirement for a quarantine duration of 14 days, would have to be complied with until foreign students and family members have arrived in Canada.

Minister of Immigration Marco Mendicino and Minister of Health Patty Hajdu started working with Provincial and Territorial Governments and DLIs earlier this year to ensure a safe and stable welcome for more foreign students. On Friday, 2 October, the ministers revealed the new steps.

Foreign students demanded exemption from students from the federal government. Many of them live in countries with restricted internet connectivity and time changes contribute to odd class times.

The new measure applies to all international students regardless of when or from where their study permit has been approved, IRCC says. The immigration department also advises travellers, however, not to make any travel plans until all the requirements and all necessary authorisations have been met.

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