International Students Affected by COVID-19

By Ella Bergquist September 16, 2020 (Updated September 16, 2020) 2 min. read
canada student covid

It is no secret that the Coronavirus pandemic has affected everyone in the world. International students is a more silent group that has been affected tremendously. Although there are several options for international students to obtain permanent residency they aren’t realistic in today’s economy. The pandemic has made it nearly impossible for foreign students to meet the requirements to become a Canada Permanent Resident after studying in Canada. Recently, International Students in Canada have called for changes to the Canadian immigration laws as a result of the aftermath of COVID-19.

Students on Study Permit During Coronavirus

There are several options for international students to obtain Permanent Residency after graduation but you’ll see why they can be difficult in today’s pandemic world:

  1. Express Entry
  2. Candian Experience Class
  3. Federal Skilled Workers Class
  4. Provincial Nominee Programs
  5. Family Class Sponsorship

Express Entry favors young students who have had work experience in Canada.

Canadian Experience Class requires first a work permit then a year of work experience in Canada.

Federal Skilled Workers Class requires work experience in or outside of Canada.

Provincial Nominee Programs are different in every province but most of them require a job offer or work experience.

Family Class Sponsorship is a way for graduates to obtain permanent residencey through if they have decided to marry a Canadian or have family in Canada who can sponsor them.

As you can see, although there are several options for Canadian graduates to obtain PR after graduating, gaining work experience or getting a job offer can be extremely hard during a pandemic. Canadian students are saying that the requirements to gain permanent residency as a recent graduate are too strict for today’s economy in Canada due to the COVID-19 crisis. Many businesses have laid people off and are concerned about hiring during a pandemic which means it can be hard for students to get a job offer.

Those who have already obtained Post-graduate work permits can not currently renew those permits. If they have lost their job or aren’t able to find work, they are at risk of deportation.

The Migrant Workers Alliance for Change has called on provincial and federal governments to make the Post-Graduate work permits renewable. “We call on the federal government to make immediate changes that support students during the new global reality we are in,” the petition reads. The petition also states that families of international students should be allowed to obtain work permits, tuition fees should be lowered, and all migrants should be granted PR status.

Want to Stay in Canada After Graduating?

We understand how the current COVID-19 crisis is affecting everyone but especially immigrants and international students. If you are graduating soon or recently graduated and need help navigating the immigration process, we can help. Contact us today to book a consultation with an immigration professional. We will review your case and determine the best route for you to gain permanent residency in Canada.

Ljiljana Pavkov Avatar

Ljiljana Pavkov

I have nothing but praise! The entire team was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and kind, especially Mansi Sanghiv. She patiently explained everything I needed to know and resolved all of my concerns. I felt safe and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I am extremely satisfied with the service and experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for quality, dedication, and trust.

Lisanne Cholette Avatar

Lisanne Cholette

Mansi has been helping me navigate through a new chapter in my life. It has been a huge comfort to be able to lean on her knowledge and expertise and I would highly recommend her to anyone!

BERLITA COLLADO Avatar

BERLITA COLLADO

I am so very thankful to the VISAPACE team for making it all come true and possible from my Open Work Permit to my Permanent Residence, you make it all happen .Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart , Thank you for being part of my achievements. Now I am now a Permanent Residence through the effort, power and knowledge of VISAPLACE LEGAL TEAM.
Sending you my best appreciation and thank you.

Berlie Collado

Shahrzad Sh Avatar

Shahrzad Sh

“I truly want to thank Mansi. Her patience and thoughtful advices made a big difference for me. Her recommendations were not only helpful but also gave me clearer insight. Words can’t fully express how grateful I am for her support.”

kevin geoffrey Avatar

kevin geoffrey

Visa place helped me with my daughter’s sponsorship 3 years ago. Last week I contacted them for some clarification on a different matter. It was about an issue which technically was a problem of CIC’s software glitch and had nothing to do with Visa Place.
Yet Reena Sandu was assigned for my case. she helped me with enthusiasm and showed no hesitation despite me being an ex-client from 3 years ago.
I was very happy that even after 3 years of finishing business, Visa Place were respectful of their clients. Special thanks again to Reena for her enthusiasm and support.

Nessie Leigh Ilarde Avatar

Nessie Leigh Ilarde

Thank you very much for helping me get my new visa! I appreciate Ms. Felicita and her colleagues for guiding us through the process making sure that everything is precise. Highly recommend your firm. Thanks again 🙂

parker ellis Avatar

parker ellis

Mansi Sanghvi has been nothing for of remarkable for me. I have been dealing with a visa, immigration issues , and any time I have to call her, she has been there to answer any questions. Has answers to every question and is there to HELP YOU. Truly could not recommend her more.