NEW TRAVEL NORMS IN CANADA AUGUR WELL FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

The quarantine brought tough times for international students and universities. But the industry stood strong amid the crisis and witnessed recovery after the vaccine rollouts. Canada has set an example for study abroad destinations by combating the challenging situation with incredible resilience. After reopening its borders and allowing international students in 2021, it is ready to implement a fresh set of rules in the New Year.

The upcoming border restrictions starting Jan. 15, 2022, augur well for international students as they allow them in larger numbers to begin their studies in Canada. In a recent announcement, it has stated new adjustments to border restrictions for exempt travellers. This group includes international students as well. Canada will also expand the list of COVID vaccines for travellers to be regarded fully vaccinated from Nov. 30, 2021.

Presently, AstraZeneca, Johnson and Johnson, Moderna, and Pfizer are on the list of approved vaccines. The new ones to be added to the list include Sinopharm, Sinovac, and Covaxin. The Minister of Health of Canada stated that the country keeps health and safety at the forefront of its decisions as it battles COVID-19. The impending changes in testing and entry requirements reflect the next stage as the country aligns with the better vaccination rates around the world.

International students planning to enter Canada in the next year will have to be fully vaccinated with the approved vaccines mentioned on the current list and the new ones to be added. Alternatively, they have to meet an exemption if not vaccinated with one of the approved vaccines. For students who meet neither of the criteria, border restrictions will continue to prevail.

Students should check the eligibility requirements and border restrictions before starting with travel plans. Additionally, some territories and provinces have their own entry restrictions apart from the federal guidelines. It is vital to ensure that you follow all the criteria and restrictions to land here and begin your studies smoothly.

If you are considering studying abroad why don’t you discuss your prospects and opportunities with experts at Lurnable’s dedicated study abroad counselling division LurnPathways?


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