Dear Miss Powell, M y sister is s ick in Ontario and she is be gging me to visit her. I already have a valid visa, so I am not worried about that. I’m just so confused about what to do during this pandemic, as the policies seems to be changing all the time. I want to be there for my sister. However, I’m not sure I can deal with the added stress. Do you think it’s safe to travel at this time? What are the things I need to do to have a safe trip? – W.P. Dear W.P., Travelling during the pandemic is not for the faint at heart. Apart from the standard requirement of wearing a mask while travelling, you must take note of the new travel restrictions, which will require some planning and preparation. If you are travelling to Canada, you should be aware that there are new COVID-19 restrictions that you must adhere to. I will outline below the steps to follow to ensure that your travel experience is a little less stressful. PRE-DEPARTURE You must first check if you are authorised to enter Canada
Dear Ms Powell, I graduated with a postgraduate certificate from a college in Canada and although I have been blessed to have a job, it is not a job that falls within the required National Occupational Classification (NOC) so that I can apply under the express entry. I have been extremely worried. I saw a recent article that the government has changed the policy for international students. Can you tell me if I would qualify? How do I apply? – I.E. Dear I.E., The Honourable Marco Mendicino, minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship, recently announced that “former international students who hold or held a postgraduate work permit (PGWP) will have the opportunity to apply for an open work permit”. The government will begin accepting application online from January 27-July 27, 2021. This is a special policy, introduced in response to the pandemic and the recognition that students like you may be having a difficulty locating jobs that fall within the National Occupational Class