Canada Still Accepting Applications for Temporary and Permanent Status

While the COVID-19 immigration restrictions enacted by the government of Canada do temporarily ban non-essential travel to Canada, the government is still accepting applications for students, workers and for those who wish to live here permanently. 

Although we are currently in the midst of an unprecedented outbreak of the coronavirus, the government understands that this crisis will pass and business must continue. Canada needs a pipeline of new Canadians to help our population grow and prosper. 

What the new regulations mean for potential newcomers to Canada:

Tourists: Non-essential travelers will not be permitted to enter Canada at this time in an effort to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

Visa holders: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family are welcome to return to Canada, as long as they do not have symptoms associated with COVID-19.

The definition of immediate family members has been expanded from to include parents, step-parents, the parents and step-parents of the spouse or common-law partner, as well as their guardian.

Applications for Canadian status: You are still encouraged to submit applications for Canadian permanent residence, student permits, work permits, and citizenship applications but be advised that during this outbreak, processing times might be longer than expected. We welcome any potential newcomer interested in coming to Canada to submit a free online assessment on our website and we will get back to you with your Canadian immigration options.

Applicants currently in the immigration process: Applicants will be granted additional time to collect the necessary documents given the fact that many institutions are no longer open or are working at reduced capacity. This includes requests for biometrics despite the request letters stating a 30-day deadline

Applicants with valid PR visas to Canada: If you currently have a valid permanent residence visa to travel to Canada but are unable to do so because of travel restrictions in your own country or other reasons related to the COVID-19 outbreak, the validity of your visa will be extended if you contact Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada explaining the situation.

Visa holders in Canada: For any individuals currently in Canada on temporary status, you are welcome to stay and there are several ways to extend or restore your current status. Click here for more information.

Rest assured, the Canadim team is working hard to keep our readers up-to-date on the latest developments of the COVID-19 outbreak and how it impacts Canadian immigration. Check back with us on social or our blog for the latest news and updates.

If you’re interested in learning more about your Canadian immigration options at this time, complete our free online assessment and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.