On study permit processing, we continue to advocate for a more efficient and predictable processing of study permits.
- According to updated processing times, international students outside of Canada, regardless of their nationality, will receive a decision no later than August 6, provided that they have submitted a complete application by May 15.
- More accurate information on application status and processing is also now available for those applying for a study permit from within Canada.
Due to a disproportionately higher number of cases detected among individuals arriving on flights originating from Indian and Pakistan, the Government of Canada has suspended flights from those countries for 30 days, effective April 22. According to the official news release, this decision will help manage the elevated risk of imported cases of COVID-19 and variants of concern into Canada during a time of increasing pressure on our health care system.
- We continue to stress the essential nature of international student travel and the effectiveness of government approved COVID-19 readiness plans already in place. We are confident that restrictions will be reviewed and lifted in time for institutions to safely welcome Indian and Pakistani students to campuses this fall or sooner.
On permanent residency for international students, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s new innovative pathway will accelerate the transition to permanent residency for up to 40,000 international graduates already in Canada.
- We have long advocated that pathways to permanent residency be streamlined for international students. The new stream is an exciting opportunity for graduates of Canada’s colleges and institutes to put down roots in Canada and further contribute to Canada’s future prosperity!