Maple News reports that families in the United States looking to send their children to school in Canada are facing continued challenges due to extended border restrictions and prolonged processing times for student permits.
The Canadian government has extended travel restrictions for U.S. travelers until at least September 21, weeks after most Canadian schools begin their fall semester. These measures, part of ongoing efforts to manage the COVID-19 pandemic, have created complications for U.S. students who plan to study in Canada.
One of the most significant challenges is delays in processing study permit applications. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), new online applications for study permits are currently taking around 20 weeks to process due to a high volume of submissions and backlog.
Before the pandemic, students could apply for and receive study permits at Canadian land border crossings or airports upon entry. However, current restrictions prohibit entry for what is considered ‘discretionary or optional’ travel — which includes entering the country solely to lodge a permit application.
Nonetheless, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) states that U.S. students may still be eligible to obtain their study permits at a port of entry if they demonstrate that their trip is essential. Proof could include a letter from a Canadian school confirming that physical presence is mandatory to complete their course or program.
Students approved to enter Canada must also adhere to Canada’s mandatory quarantine regulations, which requires a 14-day self-isolation period. They are expected to present a detailed quarantine plan to border officials upon arrival. Approval will ultimately be granted at the discretion of the border services officer at the time of entry.
In terms of family accompaniment, parents or guardians hoping to travel with their children will face stricter scrutiny. The CBSA has clarified that those driving students to school in Canada are generally considered non-essential travelers and may be denied entry unless they can clearly establish an essential reason for their visit and meet quarantine requirements.
In light of continued processing backlogs and strict border measures, families are advised to plan well in advance and ensure all required documentation is in order, particularly proof from educational institutions regarding the necessity of in-person attendance.
Maple News will continue monitoring updates from Canadian immigration authorities as students and parents navigate this evolving situation.