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Updates | Events | Tips | Community 

July 2023 | Edition 1

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.

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.

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

You can find the estimated processing times for specific applications on the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada website. Processing time estimates are updated weekly. As of July 12 2023, the estimated processing times for online applications are as follows:

  • Study Permit Extension: 94 Days
  • Co-op Work Permit: 145 Days
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit: 145 Days
  • Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa): 17 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

    August 2, 9, and 16

    Weekly Wednesday Conversation Group, 1:30-2:30 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.

    August 15

    Study Permit Extension Info Session, 3:15-4:30 pm (Virtual - Zoom)

    Learn about the process of extending your study permit, including: how to submit an application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), required documents, creating an online MyCIC account, and more. Information sessions exclusive to current UM students.

    Advance registration is required.  (Registration closes Monday August 14th, 2023, at 8:30AM).

    Monday, August 28

    International Student Orientation:

    To help you prepare to start your studies, we have designed International Student Orientation and Welcome sessions specifically for international students.
    Register by August 21, 2023.

    Wednesday, August 30

    Find your UM International Community

    Hear from campus partners to learn how to get involved in campus community groups, and how to find people to connect with!

    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!

    Wednesday, August 30

    Writing Essentials for International Students

    Learn about specific study skills, practice with some writing examples, and find out where to get academic writing support.

    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.

    Tips and Reminders

      IC Intercultural Program applications are now open!

      Intercultural Leaders: Develop skills from Indigenous culture to leadership.

      Language Exchange: Get matched with a partner to learn a new language and culture.

      Welcome Mentors: Offer support and resources to a new international student

      All of these programs are eligible for Co-Curricular Record Recognition.

      Check out the Intercultural Program page for information on the programs and to find the applications!

      Enjoy summer events

      Check some items off your bucket list this summer

      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 Summer Entertainment Series at Assiniboine Park, or a Guided Restaurant Tour in Osborne Village, or the free StrEAT Feast at the Forks; get out there and have fun!

      Hot weather safety tips

      Protect yourself from the heat!

      Stay cool and hydrated in these hot summer temperatures! Be sure to watch for the effects of heat-related illness, including swelling, rash, cramps and fainting. Heat stroke may begin with a headache, hot skin, dizziness or confusion.

      University closure dates

      Plan ahead and schedule appointments in advance

      The University of Manitoba will be closed for long weekends on Monday August 7 for Terry Fox Day, and Monday, September 4 for Labour Day. 

      Fall Classes

      Plan your return to Winnipeg and UM Campus

      Returning students: if you have been travelling over the summer break, ensure you're back in time for the first day of classes on Wednesday, September 6.
      New students
      should be attending International Student Orientation on August 28 and Welcome Day on Tuesday, September 5.

      Community Updates

        UM Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre

        Soaking up summer but... still need to talk with someone? Spiritual Care is still here!

        spiritualcare@umanitoba.ca | 528 UMSU University Centre | 204-474-8721

        Contact UM Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre to meet with a Spiritual Care Provider or learn about resources on campus!

        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 “cheat sheet” that you can 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!

        How can I add content to the Newsletter? +

        If you are a UM Community member, and would like your event featured, please email: crystal.stewart@umanitoba.ca

        How do subscriptions work? +

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

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