International students studying in Canada might sometimes face situations where their Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) might delay the start of their program to the next semester. Students might need to postpone starting their studies due to reasons like a family emergency or requiring additional funds.
If a student intends to postpone the commencement of their studies in Canada, seeking permission from their educational institution is essential. The student must formally request permission to defer their enrollment, whether prompted by personal circumstances or due to delay from DLIs. This process involves contacting and following the institution’s specific guidelines and procedures for deferred enrollment.
Let us have a look into the different options available for international students to defer their enrollment.
1. Resuming Studies Within a Specific Period
Upon deferring their enrollment at a Canadian DLI, international students can resume their studies either at the start of the subsequent semester or within 150 days from confirming their deferred enrollment, whichever occurs earlier. This option allows them flexibility, selecting the earlier timeframe between these two options, to resume their academic pursuits within the specified period.
2. Changing Immigration Status in Canada
Another option to extend their stay in Canada involves pursuing a change in their status. This entails transitioning from their current international student status to visitor status or worker status within the country.
How can international students shift to visitor status in Canada?
When international students in Canada opt to defer their enrollment, pathways are available to extend their stay in the country. One such option involves applying for a visitor record, providing an opportunity for continued presence in Canada. International students requiring a visitor record must apply at least 30 days before their current student status or study permit expires.
A visitor record and a visitor visa are different; they serve distinct purposes and have varying conditions. A visitor visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa) is a necessary document for travel and entry into Canada, specifically for citizens of certain countries. It permits entry into Canada for a duration of up to six months. On the other hand, a visitor record extends the stay duration in Canada. These records are issued by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) or Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
A visitor record generally allows temporary residents to extend their stay in Canada as visitors, workers, or students without requiring specific permits. However, holding a visitor record does not guarantee re-entry into Canada.
A visitor visa indicates a specific date by which the visa holder must enter Canada, not the expiration date for their stay in the country. This date is the deadline for the visa holder’s arrival in Canada. In contrast, the expiry date on the visitor record indicates the deadline for the holder’s departure from Canada.
How can international students shift to Worker status in Canada?
International students have the option to transition to worker status through either an Employer-specific or Open work permit.
Employer-specific work permits allow the holder to work with a particular employer, location, and timeframe.
Conversely, an open work permit provides the flexibility to work for nearly any employer in Canada, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and are not listed as ineligible.
Eligibility criteria vary based on whether the individual resides inside or outside Canada. For further details on eligibility, application procedures, and subsequent steps, visit the Government of Canada website.
3. Departing from Canada
Another alternative option for international students deferring their enrollment in Canada is to depart from the country. This is a common choice, especially for those who are certain they will not return within the stipulated timeframe or need more clarity on when the situation prompting their deferral will be resolved. By opting to leave, students can manage their circumstances elsewhere without worrying about their studies in Canada. For any deferral instances, students must acquire an updated letter of acceptance directly from the Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This updated letter confirms and acknowledges the deferred enrollment, ensuring clarity and compliance with the institution’s records.
In conclusion, deferring enrollment for international students in Canada offers diverse options, such as resuming studies within a timeframe, changing status, or opting to leave the country. Each option requires considering personal circumstances and adhering to Canadian regulations. Awareness of these choices enables students to handle unforeseen situations while managing their academic journey in Canada efficiently.
Every student’s situation is unique, so seeking guidance from your institution’s international student services or immigration authorities is advisable. Keeping updated with reliable sources will assist in navigating the complexities associated with deferring enrollment and leaving Canada as an international student.
If you need assistance or further clarification regarding deferring enrollment, contact us at ImmiLaw Immigration Law Professional Corporation. At ImmiLaw, our experienced immigration lawyers specialize in Canadian immigration law and provide expert guidance on matters related to enrollment deferral and student immigration.
Feel free to contact us for personalized assistance and inquiries.
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