Minister Mendicino Unveils Changes to Support Online Learning for International Students
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News Release
International students enrich Canada’s cultural and social fabric while contributing over $21 billion to the economy. In response to the pandemic, the Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has implemented several temporary policy adjustments to aid international students and educational institutions.
July 14, 2020—Ottawa—The Minister has introduced new measures for international students starting online programs this fall at Canadian institutions. This initiative allows students to continue their education safely and ensures they can enter Canada once restrictions ease.
These updates offer clarity on students’ future opportunities in Canada, including the ability to work post-graduation, even if they start studies online from abroad. They uphold Canada’s status as a top destination for international education and highlight the significant role international students play in the country.
Key Changes for International Students
Priority Study-Permit Processing
Students who submit a complete application online will receive expedited processing to facilitate quicker study permit issuance.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Eligibility
Time spent studying online from abroad will count towards a post-graduation work permit if students complete at least half of their program in Canada and have applied for a study permit.
Temporary Two-Stage Approval Process
For students unable to submit all documents due to pandemic-related disruptions, a temporary approval process allows them to start their studies online. Once conditions improve, they must submit remaining documents to secure full study permit approval.
This temporary process applies to students starting programs in the fall semester who apply for a study permit by September 15, 2020. It assures students they can start their studies online, despite documentation delays.
While COVID-19 presents global challenges, Canada aims to protect public health while minimizing economic and social impacts. These measures ensure international students continue to enrich Canada and its communities.
However, students should note that beginning studies online after receiving conditional approval does not guarantee full study permit approval. Factors like inadmissibility for security reasons may affect the final decision, and evolving travel restrictions could pose additional challenges.
Quotes
“The pandemic has significantly impacted international students and Canadian host communities. We’ve introduced measures to support them because we value their pursuit of a high-quality education in Canada. Our goal is to minimize the impact of these challenges on their aspirations.”
– The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Quick Facts
- In 2019, Canada hosted over 650,000 international students at the post-secondary level.
- More than 58,000 former international students have become Canadian permanent residents.
- The temporary approval process includes two stages: approval-in-principle and eligibility/admissibility.
- Approval-in-principle involves showing acceptance at a Canadian institution, financial readiness, and eligibility for a study permit. Successful applicants can start studying online and count this time towards their work permit.
- Final approval requires meeting all eligibility requirements, including biometrics and necessary documents. Only then can applicants travel to Canada.
Associated Links
- News release: Canada provides update on exemptions to travel restrictions to protect Canadians and support the economy
- News release: Removing barriers for international students working in essential services to fight COVID-19
- Web notice: Flexibility in post-graduation work permit rules to help international students and Canadian post-secondary institutions
- Website: How COVID-19 is affecting immigration, refugee, citizenship and passport services
Contacts
Contacts for media only
Kevin Lemkay
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
What are the new measures for international students during the pandemic?
The measures include expedited study permit processing, counting online study time towards work permits, and a two-stage approval process for study permit applications.
Can international students start their studies online?
Yes, students can begin their studies online from abroad if they have received conditional approval and applied for a study permit by September 15, 2020.
Will online studies affect post-graduation work permit eligibility?
No, online studies from abroad will count towards a post-graduation work permit if students meet all other criteria and complete at least half of their program in Canada.
To learn more about these changes, read our immigration guide.
