International students
Travel
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Can I travel to Canada?
An approved COVID-19 readiness plan allows international students to enter Canada if you meet the following conditions:
- Valid study permit or letter of Introduction (not an AIP/first-stage approval) from IRCC that shows you were approved for a study permit
- Valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) which is a sticker on your passport or Electronic Visa Authorization (eTA)
- Valid passport
- Valid letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with a COVID-19 readiness plan for new international students
- Valid Verification of Enrolment letter for current international students
- Undergraduate students: Download through your MyCampus account; download instructions can be found online
- Graduate students: Complete the request form for the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
- Letter of support
- The last day to request a letter of support before the winter holidays is Monday, December 14. The university is closed from December 24, 2020 to January 3, 2021.
- Undergraduate students: Request a specialized letter from the Office of the Registrar
- Graduate students: Request the letter from the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
- Proof that you have enough money to support yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
- Adequate quarantine plan with the ability to respond to any questions relating to your quarantine plan upon arrival in Canada
More information can be found on the IRCC website.
If you require further assistance, contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
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What do I need to do prior to travelling?
For Ontario Tech university:
Fill out the travel to Canada form prior to arriving in Canada, to notify the university you will be arriving. This form should be completed at least one month prior to travelling.
For Immigration Canada:
Refer to our pre-arrival checklist on how to prepare for your travels to Canada.
Please note: The information border officials collect helps the Public Health Agency of Canada with its compliance and enforcement efforts. Providing false or misleading information is an offence under the Quarantine Act and can result in fines and potentially even prison time.
This information can be found on the IRCC website.
If you require further assistance, contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
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What should I expect at the border?
Make sure you have proof that you are exempt from the travel restrictions and that you are travelling for a non-discretionary, non-optional purpose.
When a Border Services Officer greets you, they will look at several factors, including:
- Your health, which will be assessed at the port of entry. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to Travel to Canada
- If you develop symptoms during your flight to Canada, you must tell a Canada Border Services Officer when you arrive in Canada
- If you do not have symptoms but believe you were exposed to someone who has/had COVID-19, you must tell a Canada Border Services Officer when you arrive to Canada
- You will be asked for your traveller contact information form—ArriveCAN mobile app, web-based or paper form.
- Your non-discretionary reason for travelling to Canada.
- Your ability to complete a 14-day quarantine period as soon as you arrive at your final destination.
- If you either:
- have time to complete your quarantine before you physically attend classes; or
- can study online during your quarantine
Before you travel, you can contact the Border Information Service for more information. Please note: A Border Services Officer will make a final decision on your eligibility to enter Canada when you arrive.
This information can be found on the IRCC website.
If you require further assistance, contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
- Your health, which will be assessed at the port of entry. Anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to Travel to Canada
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What do I need to provide for my quarantine plan?
It is mandatory for you to have a plan to quarantine for 14 days when you arrive in Canada, including:
- A place to stay.
- How you will access essential services and medical care, if required.
- How you will get to your destination.
- How you will get your groceries.
We have developed a quarantine resource guide to support your quarantine plan. For more information on quarantine requirements, refer to the IRCC quarantine guidelines.
You are required to use Maple Assist with your private transportation from the Toronto Pearson Airport to your place of quarantine. They can also support you with the following:
- A shuttle from Toronto Pearson Airport to your place of quarantine.
- 14-day self-isolation at Residence, or a motel/hotel in Oshawa or Whitby.
- Emergency assistance for 14 days.
- Sim card (already activated and placed in your room).
You can request this service through Maple Assist.
Please note: You are responsible for covering any costs related to your quarantine period, including accommodations, food and hygiene products, etc. We do not sponsor Maple Assist.
To learn more about private transportation, contact Maple Assist at ontariotecharrivals@mapleassist.com.
If you require further assistance, contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
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What do I do once I enter Canada?
- Inform the university the day you arrive in Canada by emailing your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
- Refer to the arrival checklist for further instructions.
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What happens if I do not quarantine?
This plan is mandatory even if you have no symptoms.
If you do not have a plan, you should not travel to Canada and will not be allowed to enter the country. A Border Services Officer will determine if you can enter.
The penalties for not following your quarantine plan once you are in the country can include:
- A fine of up to $750,000.
- Six months of jail time.
- Being inadmissible—removed from Canada and banned from entering for one year.
Spot checks will be conducted by the Government of Canda to verify compliance.
Please contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca for assistance regarding COVID-19 testing.
Please note: Your transportation to the centre cannot be by public transit.
If you require further assistance, contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
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What do I do during quarantine?
Monitor yourself
Some of the more commonly reported symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- New or worsening cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Temperature equal to or over 38°C
- Feeling feverish/chills
- Fatigue or weakness
- Muscle or body aches
- New loss of smell or taste
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal symptoms—abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting
Please note: Symptoms can vary from person to person.
Take a self-assessment online
- If you are not sure of your symptoms, visit the COVID-19 self-assessment website.
- Download the COVID Alert app.
Follow these steps
- Stay at the quarantine accommodation for at least 14 days.
- Do not leave the quarantine accommodations unless it is to seek medical attention.
- Do not use public or private transportation (e.g. bus, taxi, subway, Uber, Lyft, etc.).
- Do not have visitors or be in close contact with anyone.
- Do not go to school, work or any public areas for 14 days.
- Arrange for necessities (e.g. food, medication and cleaning supplies) to be delivered to your quarantine accommodation.
- Monitor your health closely for 14 days.
- Learn more about quarantining from Public Health Canada—available in multiple languages.
Follow Public Health regulations
- Stay at home and away from others if you feel sick.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds.
- Sneeze and cough into a tissue, or your bent elbow; do not cough into your hands.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wear a mask in public after the 14-day quarantine period.
- Avoid shaking hands or hugging after the 14-day quarantine period.
- Keep a distance of six feet from others after the 14-day quarantine period.
- Stick to a small and consistent social circle, and avoid gathering in large groups after the 14-day quarantine period.
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Can I travel outside of Canada, and what happens to my classwork/assignments?
International students looking to return to their home outside Canada may do so. The university recognizes the evolving circumstances and limitations on international travel.
Please note:
- If you are leaving, you still need to participate in the online classwork and alternative assessments that will be established by your professors.
- Elements of your program that are not available online or adapted for completion through alternative forms of assessment, may require arrangements to be determined prior to the beginning of the next academic year. Contact your Academic Advisor for details.
- Ensure your study permit—as well as your passport, and Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)—are valid at all times. Failure to do so could affect your return to Canada and/or your eligibility towards post-graduate programs toward permanent residency.
If you require further assistance, contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
New international students
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I am a new student starting my program online—do I need a study permit now?
International students do not need a study permit to legally start a program from outside of Canada, however, you will need one to begin studying in Canada once you are able to travel. We strongly recommend that you begin your study permit application process as soon as you can.
As of July 14, 2020, students starting in Fall 2020 have access to a new two-stage study permit process: The first step is to receive an approval-in-principle, then a final approval after all remaining documents are submitted. This process aims to assist students starting their program online.
Please note: An approval-in-principle is not a guarantee that you will receive a final study permit approval or that you will be able to travel to Canada. For more information please refer to the IRCC announcement.
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My study permit application has been rejected—what should I do?
If your study permit application got rejected, you are still able to study online if you are outside of Canada. However, you will need a study permit to begin your studies in Canada.
Reach out to your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca to support you on your resubmission for your study permit application.
Immigration
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My study permit will be expiring—what should I do?
In Canada:
If you are currently inside Canada, you must maintain a valid study permit. You can apply to extend your status online through your MyCIC account.
Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website to learn more about the study permit extension application.
Outside Canada:
If you are currently outside of Canada, you can apply for a study permit through your MyCIC account. If you cannot apply through an online application, you may be able to do a paper application if your visa application centre/embassy is open.
Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website to learn more about the study permit from outside of Canada application.
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With my courses fully online, do I still need a study permit if I am inside of Canada?
You are required to have a valid study permit throughout the duration of your program while you are in Canada. During academic sessions, you would still be required to comply with your study permit conditions.
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I am in Canada and I need to do my biometrics for my study permit application—what can I do?
As of July 15, 2020, you are exempt from giving biometrics if you are applying from within Canada. This applies to all new applications as well as applications already in progress.
You do not have to pay the biometric fee when you submit your application, even if the system tells you to pay it.
Please refer to the IRCC website for more details. -
Can I work full-time during this time?
The number of hours you can work on/off-campus has not changed while in-person classes are cancelled. You can work 20 hours a week off-campus during your academic semester, and you can work full-time during your scheduled breaks. There are no restrictions on the number of hours you can work on-campus.
If you have a valid study permit with the conditions you can work on/off-campus and are registered as a full-time student—you are eligible to work on/off-campus.
For more information on working on/off-campus, visit the International Office website.
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Can I work if I took a break from studies or became a part-time student because of COVID-19?
You can continue to work even if COVID-19 has forced you to become a part-time student or take a break in studies if you are:
- A full-time student
- Authorized to work on- or off-campus while you study
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How does COVID-19 impact my immigration applications?
Disruptions due to COVID-19 may impact the processing times for your immigration applications.
For information regarding current immigration applications please visit the IRCC website and check the current processing times.
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With my courses fully online, can I still apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) once I complete my program?
Online courses will not affect your PGWP eligibility under the following conditions:
In Canada:
Students who are studying in Canada with a valid study permit—and whose classes have been moved online due to COVID-19 health restrictions—will remain eligible for a PGWP.
Outside Canada:
Any time spent studying online from outside Canada since spring 2020, now counts toward the length of a PGWP. You will not have time deducted from the length of your PGWP for studies you complete outside Canada until April 30, 2021.
You are required to complete at least 50 per cent of your program of study’s total courses in Canada (either online or in class).
You can begin your classes while outside Canada and still be eligible for a PGWP provided one of the following applies:
- You have a valid study permit.
- You have been approved for a study permit.
- You applied for a study permit before starting your program in the spring, summer or fall 2020 semesters.
- You will apply for a study permit before starting your program in the winter 2021 semester.
For more information please refer to the IRCC website.
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I need to obtain or renew my Social Insurance Number (SIN)—what do I do?
Service Canada Centres are gradually re-opening locations for key services. Find out if your local Service Canada Centre is open.
Due to physical distancing, space is limited. Please advise clients to make a request for an appointment by filling out the service request form. A Service Canada officer will call clients back within two business days.
However, you can apply to obtain or renew your Social Insurance Number (SIN) online by visiting the Service Canada website.
SIN can only be issued to students who have a valid Study Permit indicating authorization to work in Canada.
Health and well-being
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What is the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP)?
It is mandatory for everyone studying or working at Ontario Tech University to have health insurance coverage. Permanent residents and Canadian citizens are typically eligible for provincial health care plans.
If you are not eligible for a provincial health care plan, it is mandatory you have UHIP. To learn more about UHIP, visit the International Office website or the UHIP website.
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Can I opt-out of UHIP?
It is mandatory for everyone in Canada, studying or working at Ontario Tech University, to have health insurance coverage. All international students are enrolled in UHIP while they are studying at Ontario Tech unless they are eligible for an exemption.
As a result of current remote learning options, international students who intend to study while living outside of Canada are eligible to opt-out of UHIP.
Eligible students must complete the UHIP opt-out form by Friday, January 15. The opt-out form will be available for the winter 2021 semester by Sunday, November 15. If this form is not completed, you will be responsible for the UHIP fee for the full year.
If you are opting-out and come to Canada between January 1, 2020 and August 31, 2021, you must contact uhip@ontariotechu.ca within 30 days of arriving, and provide proof of your arrival date. At that time, you will be re-enrolled and a UHIP fee will be added to your account for the remainder of the academic year. Please note: If you opt-out of UHIP and do not inform uhip@ontariotechu.ca within 30 days of arrival in Canada, you will be charged a $500 late fee in addition to the UHIP fee.
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When does my UHIP coverage begin?
You must be registered for classes to be enrolled in UHIP. Coverage begins on the day you arrive in Canada, but not before the tenth of the month before you start your studies at the university.
Start term Earliest UHIP availability Fall August 10 Winter December 10 Spring/summer April 10 If you arrive in Canada before your UHIP coverage can start, notify uhip@ontariotechu.ca and iss@ontariotechu.ca. Please note: You are responsible for purchasing adequate private health insurance until you are eligible for UHIP.
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Do I have UHIP coverage if I'm in Canada but residing outside of Ontario?
Yes.
Students residing in other provinces or territories whose studies remain online:
- are eligible for UHIP as if they are living in Ontario/Hull/Gatineau
- have coverage for medical emergencies and necessary medical services
- Members are encouraged to contact case.mgmt@sunlife.com if they are admitted to a hospital or need ongoing treatment.
- Elective services outside of Ontario/Hull/Gatineau remain ineligible.
Visit the UHIP website for more information on claims processing outside of Ontario but within Canada.
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Is the Campus Health Centre (CHC) open to see a doctor?
The CHC is open for virtual and approved in-person appointments. Virtual supports continue to be available from doctors, nurses, Mental Health professionals and wellness coaches.
We will have openings for International Wellness Checkups (IWC). Please indicate you want an IWC at the time of booking.
For more information, visit the Campus Health & Wellness Centre website.
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What do I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms?
If you are showing any symptoms of COVID-19, you can use the COVID-19 self-assessment tool to help you determine what the recommended next steps are, and immediately self-isolate.
Alternatively, you can contact the Campus Health Centre at:
Phone: 905.721.3037
Email: CHC@durhamcollege.ca
Live chatIf you require further assistance, contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
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Does UHIP cover COVID-19 testing?
Yes. International students have access to COVID-19 tests, free of charge.
Ensure you take your UHIP card and a UHIP claim form with you. If SunLife receives a claim for COVID testing, they will work with the provider to resolve the issue.
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Where can I get a COVID-19 test?
Visit a COVID-19 testing location to get a test nearest to you.
Financial support
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As an international student, if I am laid off due to the COVID-19 situation, am I eligible for Employment Insurance?
Yes, workers who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents—including temporary foreign workers and eligible international students—may be eligible to receive the Canada Emergency Response Benefit.
For more information and eligibility requirements, applications, contact information and more please visit the Service Canada website.
Academic support
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If I am an international student who can't enter Canada due to border closures/visa delays, how will I receive the lab component of my course, if it is in-person?
If you find yourself in this situation, please contact your academic advisor to discuss.
To find out exactly which undergraduate courses will be offered online and which will be in-person, please visit our Fall/Winter course offerings page.
Find important information for grad students and postdocs on the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies website.
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What academic support is available?
Student Life Centre services are being moved to online delivery models to support you during your remote-learning journey. For more information about workshops and online supports please visit the Student Life website.
Support
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Where should I direct other questions about my immigration status or how the COVID-19 situation might affect me?
If you have additional questions, please contact your International Student Advisor at iss@ontariotechu.ca.
You may also contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) directly or keep checking the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Program delivery instructions page on the IRCC website for updated information.
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Can I still access Student Life services?
During this period of social distancing, Student Life services are being moved to online delivery models to continue supporting students during their remote-learning journeys.
Service changes as of Tuesday, March 17:
- One-on-one appointments are being held virtually.
- In-person events have been cancelled.
- Many workshops and learning communities are being hosted virtually.
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What mental health support areas are available for me?
Mental health supports are now available online—please note that wait times may be longer than usual:
- Ontario Tech Student Mental Health Services can be reached at 905.721.3392 or studentlifeline@ontariotechu.ca.
- Good2Talk Helpline (24/7) can be reached at 1.866.925.5454.
- Crisis Text Line (24/7) support can be reached via text by texting GOOD2TALKON to 686868.
The immigration information on this page has been reviewed and endorsed by Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) in compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations.
Please note: This is not a legal document and information may change without notice. Always refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information.