If you do not know what to expect at the Canadian border as an international student you may be caught off guard. Or worse, may make mistakes that will cause you to get sent back to your country. Make no mistakes, until you have received final clearance to go into Canada, anything can happen at any stage.
Although it is not the goal of the immigration officers to send anyone back home, it is also their job to thoroughly vet anyone who is coming into the country. So, you have to prove your genuineness and admissibility all the way. This guide will help you learn about the different possible situations that could come up at the border and what to do.
Documents Required at Airport for International Students in Canada
It’s crucial to have certain documents easily accessible when you arrive at the Canadian airport or port of entry. Immigration officers will review these documents to confirm your eligibility to enter the country and begin your studies.
Passport
Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada. If it’s close to expiring, consider renewing it before your trip.
Study Permit Approval or Letter of Introduction
If you’ve applied for your study permit before travelling, bring the Letter of Introduction you received from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This document will be exchanged for your actual port of entry Canada study permit.
Canadian Visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Depending on your country of origin, you’ll need either a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Ensure you have this document or approval ready.
Letter of Acceptance from Your Canadian Educational Institution
Confirmation of study plans is part of what to expect at the Canadian border as an international student. Bring the original or a copy of your acceptance letter from the institution where you’ll be studying. Immigration officers will need to confirm that you are enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Proof of Sufficient Funds
You must show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada. The current minimum bank balance for Canada student visa is $20,635 for the primary applicant and an additional $5,055 for each accompanying family member. This is one of the new rules for international students in Canada 2024. The different proofs of funds you can show include:
- Bank statements
- Proof of a student loan
- A letter from a person or institution providing financial support
- Proof of scholarships or funding from your school
Proof of Accommodation
Although not always required, having proof of accommodation (such as a rental agreement, confirmation of on-campus housing, or a hotel booking) is a good idea to show that you’ve arranged a place to stay.
Medical Exam Results (if applicable)
If you come from a country that requires a medical exam for long-term stays in Canada, you may need to show proof that you’ve completed the medical exam and that you are medically admissible.
Contact Information for Your School
In case there are any questions about your enrollment or program, it’s helpful to have the contact details for the admissions office or international student office of your school handy.
Common Questions to Expect from Immigration Officers
As part of what to expect at the Canadian border as an international student, there are common questions you may be asked, Keep in mind that these questions may be framed in different ways. However, it is important to understand in general what information the officer is trying to find out and answer accordingly.
What is the purpose of your visit to Canada?
Immigration officers will ask this to confirm that you are entering Canada for studies. You can answer directly, stating that you are an international student coming to study at a Canadian institution.
Where will you be studying?
They will ask for the name of the institution where you’ll be studying. Be prepared to provide the name and possibly some details about your program of study. You may need to show your letter of acceptance from the school.
How long will you be staying in Canada?
You will need to state the duration of your study program. It’s important to have this aligned with your study permit. The officer might also ask if you plan to return to your home country after your studies.
Do you have your study permit or a letter of introduction?
If you’ve already applied for a study permit, you’ll either have the actual permit or a Letter of Introduction, which you’ll need to show to the officer. The officer will use this to issue your study permit.
Where will you be staying?
The officer may ask about your accommodation arrangements. You can explain whether you’ll be living in campus housing, renting an apartment, or staying temporarily in a hotel. Having proof of accommodation (like a rental agreement or booking confirmation) can be helpful.
How will you support yourself financially while studying in Canada?
You’ll be asked to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and any dependents (if applicable). Questions like this are also what to expect at the Canadian border as an international student.
Do you plan to work while studying?
Since most study permits allow international students to work part-time during their studies, they may ask about your intentions to work. You can mention if you plan to seek a part-time job while studying, but ensure you’re aware of the conditions regarding employment on your study permit.
Are you bringing any goods with you that need to be declared?
There are specific items you may need to declare at the port of entry. We will discuss more on that later. Ensure you’ve filled out your customs declaration form honestly.
Tips for Respond Confidently and Clearly to Questions at the Port of Entry
Be Prepared with All Required Documents
Keep your documents (as listed above) well-organized and easily accessible in a folder or travel wallet. Having your documents in order shows that you’re organised and ready. When officers ask for specific paperwork, you can provide it quickly without fumbling, which gives a good impression.
Know the Details of Your Study Program and Institution
Familiarise yourself with the key details of your study program, such as the institution’s name, the program you’ll be studying, its duration, and your start date. Review this information before your trip to avoid hesitation when asked.
Practice Answering Common Questions
Before your trip, practice answering common immigration questions (as suggested earlier). This way, you know what to expect at the Canadian border as an international student. You can practice in front of a mirror or with a friend, which will help you feel more confident. Practising ahead of time helps you stay calm under pressure and avoid stumbling over your words, making your responses more natural and assured.
Answer Directly and Honestly
When responding to questions, give clear and concise answers without over-explaining. Answer only what is asked and avoid offering unnecessary details unless requested. Also, always tell the truth when answering questions. If you’re unsure about something, it’s better to admit it and politely ask for clarification rather than guessing.
Stay Polite and Respectful
Be polite and respectful in your tone and body language, even if you feel nervous or the questioning seems intense. Immigration officers are there to do their job, and being polite shows that you respect their authority. A respectful attitude can also help de-escalate any potential tension.
Don’t Get Flustered by Follow-up Questions
If the officer asks follow-up questions or requests further clarification, stay calm. Repeat your original answer if needed or explain further if the officer asks for more details.
Be Aware of Your Non-Verbal Communication
Pay attention to your body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Keep your posture upright, maintain appropriate eye contact, and avoid fidgeting or looking down while speaking. Non-verbal communication plays a big role in conveying confidence. Confident body language complements clear verbal responses, helping you project an image of trustworthiness and self-assurance.
Items You Need to Declare at the Border
Declaring items at the Canadian border is a straightforward process that involves filling out a customs declaration form and, in some cases, providing verbal declarations to a border officer. In knowing what to expect at the Canadian border as an international student, it is important to know if you have an item you may need to declare. Whether a declared item is seized depends on its nature and whether it complies with Canada’s import laws.
Currency or Monetary Instruments Over CAD 10,000
If you are carrying CAD 10,000 or more (or its equivalent in foreign currency), whether in cash or monetary instruments (like traveller’s cheques, money orders, or bonds), you must declare it.
Food, Plants, and Animal Products
Any food (such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products), plants (including seeds, nuts, and wood products), and animal products (like pet food, rawhide, or souvenirs made from animal parts).
Alcohol and Tobacco
Alcohol and tobacco are subject to limits and duty/tax exemptions. Bringing more than the allowed limit may result in additional duties. The limit for alcohol is usually 1.14 litres of liquor, 1.5 litres of wine, or 24 cans/bottles of beer or ale. The limit for tobacco is 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams of manufactured tobacco, or 200 tobacco sticks. Note that you must be at least 18 (or 19, depending on the province) to bring these items.
Gifts
Gifts exceeding CAD 60 in value must be declared. These gifts like alcohol and tobacco don’t qualify for this exemption and are always taxable.
Prescription Medications
If you’re carrying prescription drugs, especially if they are in large quantities or controlled substances, you must declare them. It’s also advisable to carry a prescription or note from your doctor.
Weapons and Firearms
Any type of firearm, ammunition, pepper spray, knives, or other weapons must be declared, even if they are for sporting purposes.
Items for Commercial Use or Resale
Any goods intended for commercial purposes, including equipment, samples, or products for resale, must be declared.
Pets or Animals
If you’re bringing pets or other animals into Canada, you must declare them. Ensure you have the proper paperwork, including health certificates and vaccination records.
High-Value Items and Electronics
Expensive electronics, jewellery, or other high-value goods should be declared, especially if their total value exceeds your exemption limit. You may need to pay duties and taxes on high-value goods if they exceed your personal exemption limit, especially if you plan to leave them in Canada.
Primary vs. Secondary Inspection
Primary Inspection and Secondary Inspection are two stages in the Canadian border screening process before entering the country. You should know what to expect at the Canadian border as an international student when it comes to inspection. While everybody will go through the primary inspection, you will only be sent for a secondary inspection if needed.
Primary Inspection
This is the initial screening process that all travellers go through when arriving at the Canadian border or airport. Here’s what happens:
- You present your travel documents (passport, visa, study/work permit, etc.) to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer.
- You answer basic questions about the purpose of your visit, your background, and the items you’re bringing into Canada.
- The officer reviews your documents and declaration form (if required).
- If everything checks out and no issues arise, you’re cleared to enter Canada, and you proceed through customs.
Secondary Inspection
If the CBSA officer has additional questions or needs further clarification after the primary inspection, you may be directed to a secondary inspection. Reasons for this can include:
- Incomplete or questionable documentation.
- Declared items requiring further inspection (e.g., large sums of money, restricted food or plant items).
- Background or travel history that requires additional verification.
Conclusion
The process of crossing the Canadian border is simply straightforward. However, knowing what to expect at the Canadian border as an international Student makes it even easier. By gathering all necessary documents, declaring items correctly, and being ready to answer common questions from immigration officers, you’ll be well-prepared for your arrival. Remember, Canadian border officers are there to ensure the safety and integrity of the country while facilitating your entry. Following the procedures outlined in this guide will help you enter Canada with ease, so you can focus on starting your academic journey and enjoying your time as an international student.
