Travelling to Canada

Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the University of Saskatchewan has temporarily shifted to online operations. Spring and summer courses will be offered online only. Students are instructed not to travel to Canada to begin their spring/summer classes.

The Government of Canada is currently only permitting entry to Canada to current study permit holders and those approved for a study permit on or before March 18, 2020. 

Even if you belong to one of the exempted groups, please keep in mind that all travellers must isolate for 14 days upon their arrival. If you do not have a reasonable self-isolation plan in place, please defer your travel to Canada until you do. Immigration information is subject to change. For more information, please visit below for university Covid-19 updates.

Port of Entry

USask international students who fit the above exemption must also be in possession of a valid temporary resident visa (TRV) or electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

Exempt International students must provide proof to the border agent that they meet a travel exemption. Students are recommended to provide all the following documents:

  • Study permit or Letter of Introduction received before or on March 18, 2020
  • USask Letter of Acceptance
  • USask Confirmation of Enrolment that demonstrates future enrolment

Students can read more by visiting IRCC online. Policies can change rapidly, please check with the International Student and Study Abroad Centre (ISSAC) before travelling.

Requirements of health check upon arrival

Please be aware that you will not be allowed to board a plane destined for Canada if you are showing any symptoms associated with COVID-19. Canada Border Service Agents will also assess your health before you leave the port of entry (the first airport you land in Canada).

Once in Canada, all travellers must self-isolate for 14 days even if they have no symptoms. This is mandatory. You will be required to explain your self-isolation plan before leaving the port of entry. (See below). If you develop a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing within 14 days of arriving in Canada or at all in the coming weeks and months, call 811.

Mandatory self-isolation and self-isolation plan

The Canada Border Service Agent will examine your self-isolation plan at the port of entry. This is mandatory --- even if you have no symptoms.  Information to include in your self-isolation plan could include (but not limited to):

  • Where you will stay
  • how you will buy groceries and groceries without going to the store
  • access other essential services
  • obtain medical care
  • whether there will be vulnerable people where you are staying

Please visit Public Health Canada online for guidance on self-isolation.

Stay connected

Our staff members are working remotely to ensure we stay connected during this unfamiliar time – we are here to support you. Our current online programming offering includes

First-night Accommodation and Transportation Service

Our First-night Accommodation and Transportation Service has been suspended until further notice.

Accommodation and housing

Please visit the Residence Services office's website for more detailed information and their Covid-19 FAQ. Please contact the Residence Services Office at residence@usask.ca if you have any questions.

Emergency assistance

If you need urgent assistance upon your arrival in Canada and are unsure how to get help, please contact USask Protective Service at 306-966-5555. Be prepared to provide your name, describe your emergency and provide a contact number or email where you can be reached. A staff member from ISSAC will contact you to discuss your situation in more detail.

Essential information for settlement