View in browser 

Updates | Events | Tips | Community 

August 2023 | Edition 2

The International Student Newsletter is delivered on the last week of every month.

Welcome to the International Student Newsletter!

Get important immigration updates, events, tips and community updates to your inbox every month from the International Centre (IC).

New Online Orientation in UM Learn!

Our International Student Pre-Arrival Online Orientation is intended to help you prepare for your arrival in Canada.  Be sure to complete it before you start your classes!

In this issue

  • Immigration Updates | International Student Advising Team
  • International Centre Events 
  • Tips & Reminders
  • UM Community Updates

 

Immigration Updates

Returning to Canada: Are you travelling outside of Canada this Summer?

If you are planning on returning to Canada for the start of classes in the Fall 2023 term, then IRCC has important information you should review for International students travelling outside of Canada and the re-entering. In addition, the International Centre has some specific information on our Immigration Information page regarding documentation we recommend you travel back to Canada with to prepare for your arrival at the port of entry.

Finishing your program in the Summer 2023 term?

If you are completing your program requirements during the Summer 2023 term and have declared graduation for October, then you may be considering applying for the post-graduation work permit (PGWP). IRCC has some important information on their website about who can apply, and how to apply, for this work permit. In addition, the Registrar's Office has helpful information about how to request a document confirming that you have completed your program requirements, as well as the steps to request an official transcript.

Need a new visitor visa? (Temporary Resident Visa)

If you are planning on travelling outside of Canada this summer and need to apply for a new visitor visa, then IRCC has important information on their website about how to apply for a new visitor visa from inside of Canada. 

On this page IRCC recommends applying for a new visitor visa at least 2 months before you leave Canada, and not to leave Canada until you get your visitor visa.

Application Processing Times

Estimated processing times for permits and visas are reported on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You can find the processing time for a specific application here. Processing time estimates are updated weekly. As of August 21, 2023, the estimated processing times are as follows for online applications:

  • Study Permit Extension: 74 Days
  • Co-op Work Permit: 145 Days
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit: 145 Days
  • Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa): 18 Days

You may need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) with your application. The processing times do not include additional time to give your biometrics.

International Centre Events

    Friday, September 1

    Outdoor Movie Night in the Quad

    Come watch the 1993 classic, Jurassic Park under the stars.
    Come early to reserve your spot. Opens at 7:00 pm. Show starts at 8:00 pm.
    Concession snacks for purchase (bring cash). Bring a blanket or towel to sit on.
    Free admission!

    September 6

    Guest Lecture: Dr. Cary Miller

    Associate Vice President (Indigenous) Scholarship, Research and Curriculum

    Indigenous History & Reconciliation

    Learn about Indigenous history in Canada and reconciliation in the Canadian context.

    Thursday and Friday, September 7 and 8

    Get your SIN on Campus

    Come get your Social Insurance Number on the 1st floor of University Centre from 9am - 3pm!

    September 13, 20, and 27

    Weekly Wednesday Conversation Group, 2:30 - 3:30 pm on Wednesdays

    Join us to learn about Canadian culture and how to adapt to your new home, get tips for making connections with others on campus, and practice your Canadian “small talk”. Meet at 541 UMSU University Centre each week.

    Friday, September 15

    Late Orientation

    Did you miss our August 28 Orientation?  We have a late orientation session for new students on September 15 from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Register now!

    Friday, September 15

    Study Permit Conditions and Working in Canada

    3:30 pm - 4:30 pm (CT) | Virtual - Zoom

    Learn about the conditions as a study permit holder, on/off campus working requirements and the Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility. 

    Registration in advance is required. Registration closes Monday, September 11th, 2023, at 8:30 am.

    Tuesday, September 26

    Co-op Work Permit Information Session

    3:30 pm - 4:30 pm (CT) | Virtual - Zoom

    Learn about the Co-op Work Permit eligibility requirements and program criteria. 

    Registration is required.

    Registration will closes Monday, September 25th, 2023, at 8:30 am.

    Tips and Reminders

      2023 Tony T.K. Lau Awards for Volunteer Service to International Students

      The International Centre is pleased to announce that applications for the 2023 Tony T.K. Lau Awards for Volunteer Service to International Students are now open!

      One bursary and one scholarship are available. Bursary applications close October 1st, and scholarship applications close on October 22nd.

      For more information, eligibility, criteria, and application materials, please visit: https://umanitoba.ca/international#funding-and-awards

      Fall Classes

      Plan your return to Winnipeg and UM Campus

      First day of classes is on Wednesday, September 6.

      University closure dates

      Plan ahead and schedule appointments in advance

      The University of Manitoba will be closed on Monday, September 4 for Labour Day. 

      Enjoy events in the city!

      Check some items off your bucket list this fall

      Check out Tourism Winnipeg for upcoming events for the rest of the summer. You can find cool festivals, sports, entertainment, events and more! 
      You could try the Canada Life Free Sundays @ WAG-Qaumajuq, a Winnipeg Valour FC vs Forge game, the Downtown Sounds Concert Series, the Downtown Farmers' Market, or the Worlds of Ice: Planetarium Show! Get out there and have fun!

      Community Updates

        Pop-up Photo ID Centre

        August 8 - September 8; 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

        Photo ID cards are available in-person at the pop-up photo ID center on the main floor of UMSU University Centre (Room 102B) 

        Scan the QR code to join the virtual queue. You will receive messages by text when it is your turn to come to the Photo ID Centre. Bring your Government issued Photo ID and your Study Permit! 

        New Student Wellness Centre!

        September 6 & 7

        10:30am - 12:30pm, 162 Extended Education

        Check out the soft launch of UM's new Student Wellness Centre 

        UMSU Bison Bash

        September 11-15

        Check out all the Bison Bash events including free breakfasts, Market, UMSU Street Party and fun events!

        UM Health and Wellness

        Starting university this fall? Living in student residence? New to Manitoba? Ensure you have all the information on vaccinations you need to feel empowered in your health decisions!

        Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective health interventions and a primary response against vaccine-preventable diseases. 

        Vaccine recommendations vary across provinces, territories and countries which is why UM has created a helpful list for you to consider when coming to Manitoba.
        You’ll find content on vaccine recommendations and immunization schedules, coverage and access specific to Manitoba, plus education related to Meningitis B including symptoms and treatment.
        Part of academic success includes maintaining your health and wellness! To make informed decisions about if getting vaccinated is right for you, visit Immunization/Vaccine Awareness to learn more!

        To unsubscribe from the International Student Newsletter, please email Crystal Stewart, International Transitions Coordinator. International students cannot unsubscribe to the newsletter.

        Unsubscribe

        Sent by MailerLite