The new travel restrictions imposed by Canada will have no effect on international students as for now

A few days back Canada announced that it will be extending its Covid-19 border restrictions till 21^st July 2021. These limitations will have a direct impact on all non-essential employees; according to the statement, all non-essential workers would be barred from entering Canada during the epidemic.

Bill Blair, Canada's Minister of Public Safety tweeted that, “Our number one priority as we fight #COVID19 is keeping Canadians safe. In coordination with the U.S., we are extending restrictions on non-essential international travel and with the United States until July 21st, 2021.”

When the announcement was made, international students were concerned that it would disrupt their study schedules; nevertheless, it has been revealed that Canada's recent travel restrictions will have no significant impact on international students.

According to reports, these travel restrictions will not affect permanent residents of Canada, their families, work permit holders, or some international students International students who have valid visas will be allowed to enter Canada. Canada has ceased processing study permit applications for overseas students for the fall 2021 session. Students who submitted their applications by the 15th of May 2021 will most likely receive an acceptance letter by the 6th of August; international students are recommended to wait for the approval letter before submitting their applications and booking tickets.

Canada has been welcoming international students who are studying at a Designated Learning Institute (DIL) with a Covid-19 readiness plan since fall 2020. Testing has been made mandatory for international students, who must also wait for the results while in quarantine at a hotel.

Is Vaccination Mandatory for International Students in Canada?

As for now vaccinations are not made mandatory for international students but Designated Learning Institutes of Canada might require students to be vaccinated soon so they can have access to on campus residence and other privileges.

A few notable universities of Canada including Fanshawe College, Trent University and Western University have made it compulsory for international students to have received at least one shot of the Covid-19 vaccine before commencing on campus studying.

Sandy Welsh, vice-provost of students at the University of Toronto while talking about the significance of Covid-19 vaccination said that, “This requirement, which is endorsed by our local public health authorities, will enable us to give our students the residence experience that they expect – and that is so important to their growth and development – without compromising on their health and safety.” Those studying at University of Toronto will have 14 days after their arrival to get vaccinated.