How can I study, work in Canada? - News - Jamaica Gleaner - Tuesday | April 16, 2013

How can I study, work in Canada? - News - Jamaica Gleaner - Tuesday | April 16, 2013

Dear Miss Powell,

I am finishing up sixth form and I would like to study in Canada. Can you tell me what the procedure for doing so is? How long does it take? Also, would I be able to work part- time while studying?

- RS

Dear RS,

I'm always excited when I hear from people who want to further their studies. Education is the key to opportunities. You did not say what type of studies you would like to pursue in Canada. However, I am going to assume that you would like to attend a college or university, since you are currently in sixth form.

The first step would be to apply and get a letter of acceptance from an accredited school in Canada. Canada has several highly accredited universities and colleges, which are well known for various disciplines. You should look at MacLean's University Rankings to get an idea of the ranking of the schools to help you with your decision. The higher the ranking of the school, the more competitive it will be.

The next step will be to ensure that you are eligible and admissible. You will need to complete the required forms and attach the supporting documents to prove the following:

1. You have the required amount for tuition and living expenses;

2. You are a law-abiding citizens and able to present a clean police certificate;

3. You are in good health and passed the medical examination;

4. You intend to return to your country at the end of your study.

The average processing time for most applications for study permit is usually based on where you submit your application. For applications submitted in Jamaica, the average processing time is seven weeks from the date of receiving a complete application. The emphasis is on ensuring that you submit a complete application with all the required documents.

If you receive a scholarship from the Canadian government or organisations such as OAS, CIDA, you may not be eligible for a work permit, depending on the terms of your scholarship.

However, if you are not on a restricted scholarship, you may work as a student once you have received your study permit. You will not need a work permit if you are working on the campus where you are enrolled.

However, if you wish to work off-campus, you must apply for a work permit. The Off-Campus Work Permit Programme is available for students who are registered on a full-time basis for certain programmes. You should check to ensure that your programme qualifies before applying for a work permit.

Permitted to work 20 hrs

You will be permitted to work a maximum of 20 hours per week. Remember, your primary focus should be on successfully completing your studies and not on your part-time work. If you are unable to maintain a satisfactory grade, you could risk losing the work permit and even your study permit.

You may seek the assistance of an immigration lawyer to assist you with your particular case, especially if you are unsure about qualifying. Remember, there are ways to overcome problems with eligibility and admissibility that a lawyer would be able to assist you with.

Best of luck with your studies!

Deidre S. Powell is a lawyer, mediator and notary public who is a member of the Jamaican and Ontario, Canada, bars, with office located in Ottawa, Ontario. Her areas of practice are in immigration, real estate, personal injury, family, commercial and administration of estates. Submit your questions and comments to Email: info@deidrepowell.com Subject line: Immigration Fax:613.695.8778.