Can I Travel to Canada After My Classes Have Begun?

This article explores the rules and implications concerning travel to Canada after the start of your academic program. It addresses common questions and provides guidance based on official guidelines and typical Canadian educational practices.

Breaking Contract with the Canadian Government and School

Starting an academic program in Canada is a significant commitment involving a government contract and a school acceptance. According to Canadian regulations, once you sign an acceptance, you are legally bound to attend classes and study regularly. Traveling to Canada for leisure or other purposes is permitted, but only during school breaks and when your academic activities are not in session.

The contract with the government and school you mentioned ensures that you fulfill your obligations as a student, which includes attending classes and engaging in continuous studies. Violating this contract can lead to severe consequences, such as expulsion from the institution and revocation of your study permit.

Arrival and Living Expenses

Proper planning and preparation are crucial when relocating to a new country, particularly when it comes to higher education. It is recommended to arrive about 30 days before the start of classes to allow sufficient time for settling in. However, it is important to note that living expenses in Canada can be quite high.

The minimum living expense requirement for a student visa has been increased to over $20,000 CAD per year, reflecting the high cost of living in Canada. This requirement aims to ensure that international students have sufficient funds to cover their living expenses without relying on part-time or casual work.

It is essential to be aware of these financial obligations before relocating. Arriving too early can be financially burdensome, but arriving just before classes begin also poses logistical challenges in terms of accommodation and paperwork.

Accommodation and Documentation

Arriving in the next ten days with appropriate documentation ensures compliance with visa requirements. The new "proof of funds" rule of $20,000 will apply to you, and it is crucial to ensure that all documentation is in place and up-to-date. This will help avoid potential issues with the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

About the accommodation, if you are arriving just before classes begin, it might be challenging to find suitable housing. You should contact the school’s accommodation office well in advance to ensure that you have a place to stay while you wait for your classes to start.

Starting Classes Late

Starting classes late can have significant implications for your academic progress. If you are only slightly late, contact the school to see if you can join the class late. If the delay is longer, consider contacting the school to see if you can defer your start to the next session. Schools that accept international students are aware that sometimes documentation can be delayed, and attendance sometimes needs to shift to the next intake.

International students in Canada are typically part of a rigorous academic environment. To ensure your success, it is important to address potential delays promptly and follow the school's procedures for such situations.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

If you fail to attend classes, the university has the authority to expel you from the program and report the matter to the IRCC. The IRCC may then revoke your study permit, leading to a mandatory departure from Canada.

If you are slightly late, contact the school to confirm that you can still start classes. If the delay is significant, you may be informed by CBSA officers that you are too late to start and will need to leave Canada and resume your studies at the beginning of the next semester.

Being an international student in Canada is a complex and demanding journey. It is essential to manage your responsibilities and obligations to avoid any unfavorable outcomes and to ensure a successful academic experience.

In summary, planning and compliance with academic and visa requirements are crucial for international students in Canada. Proper preparation and timely communication with your educational institution can help you navigate through any challenges and achieve your academic goals.