Permission is required to study online in Canada due to the COVID-19 epidemic, which has led to some uncertainty around this issue.
Virtual studies are the best option for you if you want a Canadian education but are unable to leave your home. With a focus on innovative and accessible education, Canada leads the world in online study and distance learning. The ability to study in Canada has become simpler for international students thanks to technology. A study permit may or may not be required for online studies in Canada, depending on your program. A study permit may not be required if you enroll in an online course in Canada in the following circumstances:
Distance learning
Remote learning courses are not eligible for study permits in Canada. In distance learning, a learner is not physically required to attend a class, according to IRCC. There should be a clear distinction between remote learning and online courses or programs that are currently unavailable because of the COVID-19 epidemic. If you need to complete tutorials or in-person exams in Canada as part of your distance learning program. The in-Canada component of the program will require a study permit if it exceeds six months in length.
Less than six-month programs
Whether you plan to study online or in person, you won't need a study permit if your Canadian education program lasts less than six months. Canadian immigration regulations exempt persons intending to enroll in a program of study lasting fewer than six months from requiring a study permit.
It is still a good idea for foreign nationals to apply for a study permit even if the course will only last six months or less. It will be easier for them to renew or modify their study permits if they decide to pursue additional studies.
Self-improvement/general interest courses
A study permit may not be required for you to study online in Canada if you are interested in the course or want to improve yourself personally. Courses taken for general interest or self-improvement and often not leading to an academic degree are known as non-academic courses.
Consequently, a permit is not needed for these courses under Canada's immigration laws.
Audited Courses
Taking an audit course for academic credit without making claims for credits could allow you to study online without a study permit in Canada.
Other exemptions
Families of foreign diplomats, workers in the private sector, and foreign military personnel stationed in the country are also exempt from needing study permission to study in Canada.
Study online at a designated learning institute in Canada
If you are studying online from outside of Canada, you may want to acquire a Canadian study permit. Students from foreign countries often enroll in Canadian universities with the intention of obtaining a Post-Graduate Work Permit once they graduate. Verify that your institution and program of study are included on this list of Canadian DLIs before you travel to Canada to pursue postsecondary education.
A PGWP - (Post Graduate Work Permit) will cover a significant amount of the study costs for some international students who successfully complete a Canadian course online. Upon graduation from an international program, graduates with a PGWP can work in any career field in Canada for three years. An international graduate's duration of a PGWP depends on how long he or she studied there.
Since the COVID-19 epidemic, Canada has allowed international students to calculate their PGWP using time spent studying online outside of their country. A two-year extension of this policy was announced in November. Up to August 31, 2022, any time spent studying online outside of Canada may extend the PGWP's term.
Remember that this time can only be applied toward your PGWP if you have a current study permit.
