CANADA IMMIGRATION NEWS AND TIPS

  Dear Miss Powell, I’m so stressed. My study permit was approved and I’ve been doing classes online, but I’m worried that this won’t be good enough, and I may not do well in my exams. This is unfair to us international students, as we pay so much for our tuition fees. Do you know when the borders will be open for international students to come in? – A.S. Dear A.S., I understand your frustration. Many persons who have received study permits, work permits, visitor’s visa and confirmation of permanent residence are asking the same questions. The government of Canada has been making decisions based on the evolving situation in Canada and the world, with the aim of protecting Canadians and those authorised to enter Canada. The situation is constantly changing, and so my advice is based on the situation at the time of writing this article. TRAVEL EXEMPTIONS AND RESTRICTIONS The department of Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship (IRCC) announced that “starting October 20, 2020, designate...

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that Canada will close borders to most non-citizens and non- permanent residents to  stop ill travellers from boarding inbound flights. Starting Wednesday, all international visitors to Canada will be turned around at the airport, with the exception of Americans, diplomats and flight crews. “We will be denying entry to Canada to people who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents,” said Trudeau, who added anyone coming back to the country needs to self isolate for 14 days. Canadian snowbirds are being advised to return home as the COVID-19 pandemic advances in the U.S. — and access to out-of-country medical insurance comes to an end for some travellers. In a  statement posted on the company's website  late Monday night, WestJet president and CEO Ed Sims said the airline would be suspending commercial international and transborder flights effective March 23.  As of Wednesday, the airline said it...

Dear Miss Powell, I just got my visa to live in Canada under the Express Entry Programme, but I’m scared to travel there because of the coronavirus. I honestly do not want to travel now. Can I get an extension to travel later in the year? I tried calling the high commission but I’m not getting through. Does Canada have a vaccine that they are giving people? I know they have a good health system, but I’m very concerned. Please help me as I don’t want to lose my visa, but I’m just worried about travelling as I don’t have any relatives in Canada. I’m worried that if I get sick, I will be on my own. Thanks in advance for your response. – DT Dear DT Congratulations on received confirmation of permanent residence from Canada! I understand your concerns and fears about travelling when there are so many uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19. It is therefore important to know the risks involved and be prepared. The situation is constantly changing, and so my advice is based on t...