In a landmark revelation on September 22, 2020, Marco Mendicino, Canada’s Immigration Minister, shared pivotal updates on the country’s stance toward international students amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, Canada has already granted approvals for 56,000 study permit applications in the initial stage, showcasing its unwavering commitment to fostering global education.
56000 Student Permit for Canada is Approved at the First Stage:
1. Milestone Achieved: 56,000 Study Permits Approved
Mendicino disclosed that the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) had given the green light to 56,000 study permits. This approval came after a meticulous review of each applicant’s acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), as well as an assessment of their financial stability to sustain themselves throughout their Canadian studies.
2. Welcoming International Students During the Pandemic
While some DLIs expressed their eagerness to welcome international students amid the pandemic, current travel restrictions in Canada pose challenges for students to physically relocate. Mendicino assured that the federal government is actively collaborating with DLIs to explore strategies for a safe return of international students to campuses.
3. Safety Measures and Quarantine Protocols
A critical aspect of the plan involves a mandatory 14-day quarantine for all returning students, aligning with Canadian law. DLIs are working in tandem with Health Canada, provinces, and territories to meet public health requirements, ensuring campuses are secure for students. Discussions are ongoing to facilitate quarantine and social distancing measures, adhering to strict COVID-19 protocols.
4. Two-Stage Student Visa Process
Addressing the uncertainties posed by the pandemic, Canada had previously introduced a two-stage student permit process. In the first stage, IRCC approves study permit applications for students accepted into DLIs, requiring proof of funds for financial support. The second stage involves meeting additional criteria such as a criminal background check, medical exam, and biometrics.
5. Pivotal Changes in Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Rules
Recognizing the challenges of online learning, Canada made a groundbreaking announcement, allowing international students to count their studies conducted in their home country towards eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
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FAQs about the “56,000 study permits approved at the first stage in Canada” announcement:
What does “approved at the first stage” mean in this context?
“First-stage approval” means that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has given initial permission to applicants who have submitted required documents such as a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), proof of funds, etc.
Applicants still need to complete the second stage, which includes medical exams, biometrics, and criminal/security checks before the full or “stage two” permit is finalized.
When was this announced and under what circumstances?
The announcement was made by Canada’s Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino on September 22, 2020 during a webinar.
This was during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many international students were unable to travel to Canada. The first-stage approvals were part of measures to give students “certainty” before travel restrictions were relaxed.
What criteria were used to grant the first-stage approvals?
To get first-stage approval, applicants had to meet certain requirements, including:
Acceptance letter from a DLI (Designated Learning Institution)
Proof of funds to support tuition and living expenses
Other standard document checks (though less than full medical, biometrics, criminal checks) were involved in the second stage.
How many study permits does this “56,000” refer to, and is that total permits or just stage-one approvals?
The figure 56,000 refers only to first-stage approvals, not full study permits. These are approvals pending the second stage (biometrics, medical, etc.).
Full approval (stage two) is conditional once all remaining steps are satisfied.
What are the implications of these first-stage approvals for international students?
Students gained certainty early: even if they couldn’t yet travel due to pandemic restrictions, they knew their permit application had cleared initial checks.
It allowed planning (travel, accommodation, etc.) in advance, and helped reduce anxiety about whether documentation was sufficient.
It also showed that IRCC was trying to adapt to disruptions by separating approval stages so students not fully blocked by delays due to travel/health restrictions.
Conclusion
Canada’s proactive measures underscore its dedication to international education, striving to provide a supportive environment for students amidst the complexities of the ongoing pandemic. These developments not only streamline the application process but also prioritize the safety and well-being of students seeking to pursue their academic aspirations in Canada. As the nation continues to navigate the pandemic, these initiatives stand as a beacon of hope for international students worldwide.