Covid-19 Impact on Student/Education Visas

Effect on foreign students

Different institutions across the world have taken various measures to combat the effect of this pandemic. For example, many universities in Australia have arranged for an e-learning platform where learners can complete either the full or half semesters from their own location. The added advantage of this convenient choice is that post-study job privileges will not be oppressed by this feature. This indicates that online learning will be deemed as good as learning in Australia and the student will be entitled to his/her Post Study Work Visa.

In the last two decades, the number of students pursuing their education in Canada has almost tripled. The international students in Canada contribute to the economic growth of the country and bring fresh cultural ideas. These impacts have led to the implementation of several policies by the Canadian government to encourage more overseas students. However, due to the Covid-19 situation, it would be much more challenging for Canadian universities to attract and retain foreign students.

Currently, the Australian government intends to exempt foreign students from travel bans and permit them to come to Australia. Similarly, New Zealand, a country that has successfully controlled the virus outbreak, will have a higher probability to become a more attractive choice for foreign students.

In the case of the United States of America, the longer the country’s credibility is tainted by its infection approach, potential high risk of a second wave of diseases, and extremely strict limits on immigration, the more difficult it would be for the US to attract overseas students.

Visa regulations are also made strict amid the ongoing pandemic. The longer the crisis lasts, the more foreign students may alter their plans.