How is Canada contributing to international students?

How is Canada contributing to international students?

Canada has imposed temporary travel restrictions to stop the spread of the coronavirus. However, the country is trying to help international students who are facing disruptions because of the pandemic. International students are essential to Canada’s society and economy. There are about 640,000 international students in the country who contribute to the vibrant learning environment of Canadian campuses across the country. International workers contribute about $22 billion to the economy every year, and that can support 200,000 Canadian jobs.

Canada is acknowledging that international students are being affected by COVID-19 disruptions, and the country has decided to introduce special measures so that international students living in the country, and the international students who are planning to arrive soon can benefit.

Implied status

Both the former and current international students who want to lengthen their stay in Canada during the pandemic might be eligible for implied status. These individuals will profit from the implied status. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will examine the work/study permit extension application, during which the students may still study or work in the country according to the conditions of the original permit. The IRCC will, meanwhile, take a look at the pending application.

Working rules

International students were usually allowed to work over 20 hours per week when class is in session, but the IRCC recently lifted this restriction. Now, international students are now employed in 10 priority sectors that are crucial to combat the COVID-19. They can work for over 20 hours every week until 31st August.

These ten sectors are Energy and utilities, Health, Manufacturing, Safety, Food, Finance, Water, Information and Communication Technologies, Transportation, and Government. Moreover, the federal government has introduced the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) in order to give income support to people in Canada who have suffered due to COVID-19. The CERB hands over $500 per week for a maximum period of 16 weeks.