Canada is continuing to process immigration, study, eTA applications

Canada is trying to keep the coronavirus restriction measures from disrupting the immigration process completely. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, or the IRCC, has said that they will continue to process incoming applications so that the incoming flow of immigrants does not stop. They are aiming to process all the study permit applications for the fall 2020 session on time so that new students can make their way into the country.

The restrictions have made it difficult for officials to continue their work normally, but they are still processing all visa applications that are coming their way. They are also prepared to process the applications for electronic travel authorization. It is important to note that the applicants must be exempt from the travel restrictions in order to enjoy this benefit. At the moment, the officials are placing special emphasis on applications submitted by temporary foreign workers who can contribute to food supply chain services and essential medical services.

IRCC steps up:

The IRCC made an announcement on April 10, stating that they are continuing to process the study permit applications “to the extent possible” so that international students can receive their permits before the fall academic term. The government has given an extension of 60 days to study permit applicants.

They will now have 90 days to submit their biometric data instead of the regular 60 days. This is because many of the visa application centers which usually provide the serves are closed at the moment due to the coronavirus pandemic. The students whose study permits were issued before the imposition of the travel restrictions on March 18, 2020, can currently come to Canada.

Applicants for permanent residence will also be considered. The applications are being processed. However, only the permanent residents who were approved before March 16, 2020, can travel to Canada currently.