Canada implements significant changes to assist international students

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced many changes that will help international students continue their education in Canada. Before the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country hosted more than 640,000 international students. Canada receives many social and economic benefits from international students, which is why the country aims to attract more potential candidates.

How will international students benefit?

In light of the current circumstances, Canada has decided to fast-track study permit processing. Students will also enjoy a temporary 2-stage study permit process. IRCC released a news report stating the ways in which it aims to help international students. They will:

• Make the processing of study permits for students a top priority. The students who have completed their virtual application will have their permits processed as soon as possible.
• Introduce a temporary 2-stage approval process for foreign students who are unable to submit a completed study permit application right now and are looking to begin their Canadian educational program virtually. Students aiming to begin their program in Fall 2020 can take advantage of this temporary process. They have to submit their study permit application by 15 September 2020.
• Allow students to initiate their Canadian studies online even when they are abroad. The time will also contribute to their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility if they have already submitted a study permit application and will complete half the program in Canada.

Why the measures?

IRCC has said that it is introducing these measures in order to help students start their programs for the fall 2020 academic year on time. The students who have already completed their study permit application can expect IRCC to process their applications soon. IRCC acknowledges that the global coronavirus crisis has put international students in a tough spot, so they are making these concessions for now.