COVID-19 Guide for International Students - Information on Preparing for Arrival in Canada and Expectations Upon Arrival - KPU International ...
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COVID-19 Guide for International Students Information on Preparing for Arrival in Canada and Expectations Upon Arrival KPU International internationaltransitions@kpu.ca kpu.ca/international/travel
Table of Contents
Travelling to Canada................................................................................................................................................ 3
Travel Exemptions and Restrictions for International Students......................................................................... 3
COVID-19 Testing Requirements........................................................................................................................... 3
When You Travel to Canada.................................................................................................................................. 4
If Immediate Family Members Want to Be With You in Canada.......................................................................... 4
What Is Quarantine?................................................................................................................................................. 5
Your Quarantine Plan............................................................................................................................................ 5
Mandatory Hotel Stay for All Air Travellers Arriving in Canada........................................................................... 5
Quarantine Reporting Requirements................................................................................................................... 5
Suitable Place of Quarantine................................................................................................................................ 6
What to Do Prior to Travelling to Canada................................................................................................................ 7
Travel Requirements Checklist............................................................................................................................. 7
Expression of Intent to Travel to Canada............................................................................................................. 7
iCent App............................................................................................................................................................... 8
ArriveCAN............................................................................................................................................................... 8
CBSA Voluntary Compliance Portal...................................................................................................................... 8
What to Do Upon Arrival in Canada......................................................................................................................... 9
1. Check-in with the Public Health Agency of Canada through ArriveCAN......................................................... 9
2. Check-in with KPU International...................................................................................................................... 9
3. Quarantine at a Hotel While Awaiting COVID-19 Testing Results.................................................................... 9
4. Complete Your 14-Day Quarantine................................................................................................................... 9
5. After Quarantine................................................................................................................................................ 9
Resources for Your Arrival in Canada.................................................................................................................... 10
Accommodations................................................................................................................................................ 10
Transportation Options....................................................................................................................................... 11
Packing List.......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Important Contacts............................................................................................................................................. 13
Mental Health Support & KPU Student Resources............................................................................................ 13
Anti-Racism Resources and COVID-19 Stigma Support..................................................................................... 14
Insurance Coverage............................................................................................................................................. 14
Internet and Bandwidth...................................................................................................................................... 14
Technological Requirements to Support Online Delivery of Classes............................................................... 15
Meal Plans and Grocery Delivery Options.......................................................................................................... 15
Please Note
Heightened travel restrictions, mandatory hotel stays, quarantine requirements, and more, make travelling to Canada difficult and costly
at this time. You are strongly advised to cancel or postpone travel plans. Now is not the time to travel. If you’re studying online from
outside of Canada, you can still be eligible for a PGWP. You can complete 100% of your program online, and all your time studying online
outside Canada between spring 2020 and December 31, 2021, will count toward the length of a PGWP.
This document was last updated on March 25, 2021.
For the most up-to-date information, always consult the Government of Canada website.
KPU is following Orders declared by Provincial Health Officer. Regular monitoring of Orders and public health
guidance is part of KPU’s routine operations. Plans, protocols, and processes are updated routinely to reflect the dynamic
nature of the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
2Travelling to Canada
Travel Exemptions and Restrictions for International Students Additional
To be able to enter Canada as an international student, you must meet both of the
Restrictions
following requirements:
• All flights to and from Mexico
1. You must have a valid study permit or a letter of introduction that shows you and Caribbean countries are
were approved for a study permit suspended until April 30,
2. You must be attending a designated learning institution (DLI) with a COVID-19 2021
readiness plan approved by its • All international passenger
province or territory flights into Canada must
• As a student at KPU, you meet this requirement. Kwantlen Polytechnic University is on land at: Montréal-Trudeau
the list of DLIs with approved COVID-19 readiness plans International Airport, To-
ronto Pearson International
Your travel to Canada must be deemed essential (non-discretionary) in order for Airport, Calgary Interna-
you to enter Canada. Your travel to Canada won’t be considered essential if your tional Airport, or Vancouver
International Airport
study program has been cancelled/suspended, or you’re entering Canada for any
reason other than to study.
COVID-19 Testing Requirements
Before Travelling Upon Arrival
All air passengers over the age of five will Unless exempt, you are required to:
be required to test negative for COVID-19
before travelling from another country • Prior to departure to Canada, make a 3-night reservation in a
to Canada. government-authorized accommodation in Canada
• Booking information here and FAQ here
• The test must be performed using • Not every room in the hotel is a government-authorized accommo-
a COVID-19 molecular polymerase dation (GAA). Please ensure that your booking confirmation indi-
chain reaction (PCR) test or a cates that your room is GAA.
Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplica- • Travellers must present proof of having reserved and pre-paid for their
tion (LAMP) test accommodation through ArriveCAN
• The test must be taken within 72 • Take a COVID-19 molecular test on arrival in Canada
hours prior to departure to Canada • Stay in the government-authorized accommodation while awaiting the
• Documentation of the negative results of the COVID-19 molecular test taken on arrival
laboratory result must be presented • Pay for the cost of the hotel stay, as well as all associated costs for: food,
to the airline prior to boarding your security, transportation, Infection prevention and control measures
flight • Take another COVID-19 test toward the end of your 14-day quarantine
• Anyone who receives a negative test • You will be provided with an at-home COVID-19 test kit and instructions
result and is authorized to enter before leaving the airport
Canada must still complete the full,
mandatory 14-day quarantine upon Travellers will still be required to complete the remainder of the mandatory
arrival in Canada. 14-day quarantine after their mandatory hotel stopover. Learn more in the
Quarantine section.
All arrangements and costs associated
with testing are the responsibility of the EXEMPTIONS
traveller. Not sure where to get tested? Exemptions from the hotel stopover are listed on the Government of
The Government of Canada’s Travel Ad- Canada website. Travellers are exempt from the 3-night hotel stay if they
vice and Advisories page contains testing meet any of the criteria listed on the linked webpage.
facilities information for some countries
(scroll down to select a country, then
click the “Health” tab for any informa- IMPORTANT RESOURCES
tion). You are also advised to contact • Entering Canada by AIR during COVID-19
your local health authority to find out • Government of Canada expands restrictions to international travel
where you can get a test. • Testing for travellers coming to Canada
• Mandatory hotel stay for all air travellers
• Flying to and within Canada
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
3When You Travel to Canada
When the border services officer greets you upon your arrival in
You must bring:
Canada, they will look at several factors, including:
• A valid study permit or a port of entry letter of
introduction that shows you were approved
• Your reason for travelling to Canada
for a study permit
• Your ability to complete a 14-day quarantine period as soon
• A valid letter of acceptance (LOA) from KPU
as you arrive at your final destination
• Proof that you have enough money to support
• If you either:
yourself and any family members who come
• have time to complete your quarantine before you physically
attend classes, or with you to Canada
• can study online during your quarantine • Your ArriveCAN receipt
You must follow all public health measures for travellers and have a valid 14-day quarantine plan for when you arrive
to Canada. Before travelling, you can contact the Border Information Service for more information. A border services
officer will make the final decision on your eligibility to enter Canada when you arrive.
If Immediate Family Members Want to Be With You in Canada
If they want to help you get settled in Canada If they’ll study or work in Canada with you
1 immediate family member may travel with you to Canada if You must submit all of your applications
they have an essential reason to travel. Essential reasons for together when you apply online. To be able to
travel are either: enter Canada, they’ll need to:
• Have a study or work permit, or a letter of
1. You’re a minor child and you need a family member to introduction showing they’ve been ap-
• travel with you proved for a study or work permit
• help you meet your guardian in Canada, and • Meet all other requirements to enter Cana-
• get set up in your new home da as a student or worker
2. You aren’t a minor child, but you have supporting docu-
ments that prove you need a family member with you to get
settled. For example, you have a physical or mental condi-
tion and you need help getting settled. In this case, you’d If they join you later
submit a medical note as proof. If you’re already in Canada, or will travel to
Canada by yourself first and your family will
Your family member may still need an electronic travel autho- join you later, what they need to travel to
rization (eTA) or a visitor visa to travel to Canada. If they need Canada depends on where they’re travelling
a visitor visa, you should include their application when you from. Find out what they need to join you
apply online for your study permit. If they need an eTA, they in Canada. They may also need an eTA or a
must apply for one separately. Make sure they follow the spe- visitor visa to travel to Canada.
cial instructions on how to apply for an eTA at this time.
Visit the IRCC website for an explanation of who is considered an immediate family member.
More Information
You must clearly understand the laws and regulations of the Government of Canada and the Government of BC prior to mak-
ing travel plans. Always visit the following websites for the most up-to-date information.
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): International Students
• COVID-19: A Guide for International Students in Canada Arriving from Abroad
• How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship, and passport services
• Government of BC: Travel Affected by COVID-10
• Self-Isolation on Return to B.C.
• Government of BC: BC Provincial Health Officer Orders
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
4What Is Quarantine?
The Government of Canada has put in place emergency measures to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19
in Canada. Upon arrival in Canada, you must quarantine for 14 days, provide contact information, and monitor
yourself for signs and symptoms. Those in violation may face transfer to a quarantine facility as well as fines and/or
imprisonment.
Your Quarantine Plan
As a traveller, you must demonstrate that you have an adequate plan for quarantine. You’re expected to make plans,
within your own means, before travelling to Canada. Foreign nationals who do not have an adequate plan may be
denied entry into Canada.
Intenational KPU students must:
• Share their quarantine plans with KPU before travelling by completing the Expression of Intent to Travel form
• Use ArriveCAN to submit their travel/contact information, quarantine plan, and COVID-19 symptom self-assessment
to the Public Health Authority of Canada before travelling
• Complete a BC Self-Isolation Plan
COVID-19 Mandatory Hotel Stay for All Air Travellers Arriving in Canada
To help limit the spread of COVID-19 and its variants in Canada, all air travellers (unless exempt) are required to
make a mandatory 3-night stay at a Government of Canada approved accommodation upon arrival in Canada.
You will be required to:
• Prior to departure to Canada, make a 3-night reservation in a government-authorized accommodation in Canada
• Booking information here and FAQ here
• Not every room in the hotel is a government-authorized accommodation (GAA). Please ensure that your booking
confirmation indicates that your room is GAA.
• Travellers must present proof of having reserved and pre-paid for their accommodation through ArriveCAN
• Take a COVID-19 molecular test on arrival in Canada
• Stay in the government-authorized hotel while awaiting the results of the COVID-19 molecular test taken on arrival
• Pay for the cost of the hotel stay, as well as all associated costs for: food, security, transportation, Infection prevention and
control measures
• Follow all traveller expectations during hotel stay
• Take another COVID-19 test toward the end of your 14-day quarantine
• You will be provided with an at-home COVID-19 test kit and instructions before leaving the airport
EXEMPTIONS
Exemptions from the hotel stopover are listed on the Government of
Canada website. Travellers are exempt from the 3-night hotel stay if they meet any of the criteria listed on the linked webpage.
LEARN MORE
• Government of Canada: COVID-19 Mandatory Hotel Stay
• COVID-19 mandatory hotel stopover: Booking and list of government-authorized hotels
• COVID-19 mandatory hotel stopover: Traveller expectations during hotel stay
• COVID-19 mandatory hotel stopover: Questions about mandatory hotel stopover
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
5Quarantine Requirements
Your 14-day quarantine starts on the day you arrive. The 14-day period starts again if, during your quarantine period,
you develop a fever and cough or fever and difficulty breathing, test positive for COVID-19, or if you are exposed to
another person who exhibits signs and symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19.
• Go directly to your place of quarantine from the airport. Do not make any stops along the way
• Stay at your place of quarantine at all times. Do not leave unless it is for a medical emergency, an essential medical
service or treatment, to obtain a COVID-19 molecular test, or it is pre-authorized
• Monitor yourself for any symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing
• Practice physical distancing of 2m at all times
• Avoid contact with others, even if you do not have any symptoms. You may not have any guests even if you are out-
side and stay 2m apart from them. You may not use shared spaces such as lobbies, courtyards, restaurants, gyms,
or pools
• Comply with all the orders of the BC Provincial Health Officer
• Report upon arrival and daily to the Public Health Authority of Canada and to KPU International
Note: If you travelled to Canada by air, make sure you also retain a copy of the COVID-19 molecular test results. You will
need to be able to provide that evidence upon request to any government or public health official.
If you develop symptoms of illness while in quarantine, you must:
• Isolate yourself from others as soon as you notice your first symptom
• Call 811 or consult with consult with HealthLink BC to discuss your symptoms and travel history, and follow their
instructions carefully
• Contact KPU International by emailing internationaltransitions@kpu.ca
Quarantine Reporting Suitable Place of Quarantine
Requirements A suitable place of quarantine is one where you:
You must report upon daily to the Pub-
lic Health Authority of Canada during • Have access to the necessities of life without leaving that place
quarantine. You will receive phone • Food, water, washing facilities, etc.
calls or public health follow-ups upon • Have a separate bedroom if the space is shared with family/friends
your arrival in Canada. If you don’t who didn’t travel with you
complete your reports after you’ve • Can limit interactions with others in the household. If spaces, such as
entered Canada, you will be in viola- a kitchen, are shared:
tion of the Emergency Order. Failure • Wear a mask if a 2m distance cannot be maintained
• Thoroughly and regularly clean common areas after use
to comply with this order is an offence
• Are not living with those at risk of more severe disease
under the Quarantine Act and could
• Are not in close contact with others who did not travel with you. For
lead to fines. Find out how to report
example, do not quarantine in:
via ArriveCan or phone.
• A group or communal living setting, including camps or student dorms
unless the location is pre-authorized;
You will also be required to report • A household with a large family or many people
daily to KPU International through the • A shared small apartment or similar setting
iCent app. Learn more in the What to
Do Upon Arrival in Canada section. Not sure where to quarantine? See the Accommodations section.
Learn More
• Government of Canada: Mandatory Quarantine or Isolation
• Government of BC: Self-Isolation on Return to BC
• Government of Canada: For travellers without symptoms of COVID-19 returning to Canada (translations
available in Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Punjabi, Spanish, and more)
• Government of BC: BC Provincial Health Officer Orders
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
6What to Do Prior to Travelling to Canada
If you want to travel to Canada as an international student, you must first:
1. Meet all the requirements of the Travel Requirements Checklist
2. Submit your Expression of Intent to Travel to Canada to KPU
3. Download the iCent app on your mobile device
4. Fill out the ArriveCAN app/online portal
5. Fill out the CBSA Voluntary Compliance Portal
Please remember that a border services officer will make a final decision on your eligibility to enter Canada
when you arrive.
Travel Requirements Checklist
☐ I am eligible to travel to Canada based on the current travel restrictions
☐ I have arranged to get tested for COVID-19 within 72 hours of my departure to Canada*
You are required to test negative for COVID-19 before travelling from another country to Canada. Documentation of a negative
laboratory test result must be presented at the airport prior to boarding a flight to Canada. Click here for more information.
☐ I have read the latest guidelines on arrival to Canada and quarantine. I understand that unless exempt, I must book a
3-night hotel stay at a government-authorized accommodation before departure to Canada, and that I must stay there upon
arrival in Canada while waiting for COVID-19 testing results. I know that all costs associated with both testing and hotel are my
responsibility.
☐ I have secured a suitable place of quarantine for the remainder of the 14-day quarantine period
☐ I have secured suitable private transportation from the airport to my place of quarantine
☐ I have a credit card that will work in Canada
You will need a credit card that works in Canada to order food and groceries online.
☐ I have secured medical insurance coverage for the duration of my stay in Canada prior to the start of classes
If you are arriving for the Summer 2021 term, your temporary medical insurance coverage with KPU does not begin until May 1,
2021. You must secure medical insurance to cover you for any time you are in Canada before this date.
☐ I can meet the technology requirements for online delivery of KPU classes (tablet/computer with internet connection) once
I am in Canada, and understand that classes and KPU services will continue to be online for the duration of the semester
Please refer to the resources section for more details on technology requirements
*Only students who can meet all the requirements on this checklist should consider travelling to Canada
Expression of Intent to Travel to Canada
KPU needs to know how you are travelling to Canada, when you are arriving, and where you will be staying during
your quarantine period.
To inform KPU, you must submit the Expression of Intent to Travel to Canada
webform prior to your intended arrival date in Canada.
You will also be asked to check-in with KPU International on a daily basis during your quarantine once you arrive in
Canada. Learn more under the section What to Do Upon Arrival in Canada.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
7iCent App
The KPU International iCent app helps new international students stay connected
to KPU International. You will need access to iCent in order to check-in with KPU
International upon arrival in Canada. Please install the app on your mobile device
before you travel to Canada.
iCent is free for download on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.
ArriveCAN
The Government of Canada requires all travellers flying to Canada to
submit their COVID-related information digitally through ArriveCAN, and to use Ar-
riveCAN upon arrival in Canada to check in with the Public Health Authority of Can-
ada. Before you board your flight, you must use ArriveCAN to provide your:
• travel and contact information
• 3-night mandatory hotel stay booking confirmation
• Not every room in a government-authorized hotel is a government-authorized
accommodation (GAA). Please ensure that your booking confirmation indicates that
your room is GAA.
• quarantine plan
• COVID-19 symptom self-assessment
You must be ready to show your ArriveCAN receipt when seeking entry into Cana-
da; a border services officer will verify that you have submitted your information
digitally. Travellers who do not submit the required information digitally before boarding their flight could be subject to
enforcement action, which can range from verbal warnings to $1,000 fine.
Download ArriveCAN
CBSA Voluntary Compliance Portal
Decrease your wait time at YVR—use the VC Portal before arrival!
The Voluntary Compliance Portal (VC Portal) is an expedited processing online form that new international students can
fill out before travelling to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to notify the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
that you’re coming. This helps the CBSA review and prepare your study permit documents before your arrival to Cana-
da, which decreases the time you need to spend at the airport. If you are eligible, we highly recommend that you use
the VC Portal.
Eligibility
If you meet the following criteria, you should use the VC Portal:
• Your initial entry into Canada will be at YVR (if you are landing at a different airport in Canada, e.g. Toronto Pearson International
Airport, and coming to Vancouver International Airport on a connecting flight, you won’t be eligible to use the VC Portal)
• You have a pre-approved study permit application from IRCC
• You are able to fill out the VC Portal at least 72 hours in advance of your arrival at YVR
Directions
• At least 72 hours in advance of your arrival to YVR, go to the VC Portal and submit your information
• It is only mandatory to include your Unique Client Identifier (UCI), Last Name, Planned Date of Arrival to Vancouver, and
Arriving Flight Number. All other fields are optional, but it’s recommended that you fill out as many fields as possible.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
8What to Do Upon Arrival in Canada
1. Check-in with the 4. Complete Your 14-Day Quarantine
Public Health Agency of If your arrival test result is negative, you’ll move from the hotel to complete
the rest of your 14-day quarantine in either your own suitable place of quar-
Canada through Arrive- antine. Remember, the 14-day period starts again if, during your quarantine
CAN period, you develop a fever and cough or fever and difficulty breathing, test
• Within 48 hours of your entry positive for COVID-19, or if you are exposed to another person who exhib-
into Canada, confirm that its signs and symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19. Near the end of the
you’ve arrived at the address quarantine period, you’ll be required to take another COVID-19 test.
you provided for your quar-
antine or isolation location • Go directly to your place of quarantine from the quarantine hotel. Do not
by using ArriveCAN or calling make any stops along the way.
1-833-641-0343. • Stay at your place of quarantine at all times. Do not leave unless it is
• During your quarantine, com- for a medical emergency, an essential medical service or treatment, to
plete daily COVID-19 symptom obtain a COVID-19 molecular test, or it is pre-authorized.
self-assessments by using • Monitor yourself for any symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough,
ArriveCAN or by calling 1-833- and difficulty breathing
641-0343. • Practice physical distancing of 2m at all times
• Avoid contact with others, even if you do not have any symptoms. You
may not have any guests even if you are outside and stay 2m apart
from them. You may not use shared spaces such as lobbies, courtyards,
restaurants, gyms, or pools.
2. Check-in with KPU
• Comply with all the orders of the BC Provincial Health Officer
International
• Immediately upon arrival, If you develop symptoms of illness while in quarantine, you must:
submit the “Confirmation of
Arrival” form in the iCent app • Isolate yourself from others as soon as you notice your first symptom
to inform KPU Internation- • Call 811 or consult with consult with HealthLink BC to discuss your
al that you have arrived in symptoms and travel history, and follow their instructions carefully
Canada. • Contact KPU International by emailing internationaltransitions@kpu.ca
• During your quarantine,
check-in daily with KPU Inter-
national by using the “Daily
Check-In” form in the iCent 5. After Quarantine
app. These daily check-ins • Submit clearance to internationaltransitions@kpu.ca
help us to confirm that you • Explore the web resource You’ve Finished Your Quarantine—Now What?
are remaining in quarantine
and to inform us of any symp-
toms you may be facing.
Learn More
• Entering Canada by AIR during COVID-19
3. Quarantine at a Hotel • Government of canada: COVID-19 Mandatory Hotel Stopover
While Awaiting COVID-19 • Government of Canada: Mandatory Quarantine or Isolation
• Government of BC: Self-Isolation on Return to BC
Testing Results • Government of Canada: For travellers without symptoms of COVID-19
Unless exempt, you will be
returning to Canada (translations
required to quarantine at a
available in Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Punjabi, Spanish,
government-authorized ac-
and more)
commodation for up to 3 nights
• Government of BC: BC Provincial Health Officer Orders
while awaiting results from the
COVID-19 test you took upon
arrival in Canada.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
9Resources for Your Arrival in Canada
Accommodations
Your accommodations must meet quarantine requirements by allowing you to safely isolate from others. A suitable
place of quarantine is one where you:
• Have access to the necessities of life without leaving that place
• Food, water, washing facilities, etc.
• Have a separate bedroom if the space is shared with family/friends who didn’t travel with you
• Can limit interactions with others in the household. If spaces, such as a kitchen, are shared:
• Wear a mask if a 2m distance cannot be maintained
• Thoroughly and regularly clean common areas after use
• Are not living with those at risk of more severe disease
• Are not in close contact with others who did not travel with you. For example, do not quarantine in:
• A group or communal living setting, including camps or student dorms unless the location is pre-authorized;
• A household with a large family or many people
• A shared small apartment or similar setting
If you do not have a safe place to quarantine, you can consider the following options. All prices are approximate and
listed in Canadian dollars. Please note: this information is being provided as a courtesy to students. The listed properties
are not subject to any form of University inspection. KPU does not take responsibility for off-campus accommodation.
All-Inclusive Isolation Packages Student Accommodations
Study Safe Corridor TRAVEL SAFE Cypress Accommodations
Rate: $1,404.55 - $1,872.05 for 11 days Rate: From $1,285 for 4 weeks
Location: Varies Location: 1155 W Pender St, Vancouver
Meals: 3 meals provided per day Meals: No. Kitchen available for use.
In partnership with The Student Travels and Maritime Travel, Languages Brand new residences opened on August 1, 2020. Con-
Canada has created a convenient, all-inclusive, and worry-free Safe Arrival tact paula@cypressaccommodations.com or call (236)
and Quarantine package for international students that includes: 788 4365 to book. Mention KPU when booking.
• 14-night quarantine hotel stay at discounted rates GEC Accommodations
• Canadian phone number and SIM card for your mobile device for 1 Rate: From $1,160 for 2 weeks or FREE for initial 14 days
month, including 5GB of data, unlimited Canada-wide calling, and when booking a minimum of 6 months (see promotion
unlimited international text and picture messaging here)
• 3 meals per day delivered to your hotel room for the duration of your Location: 7657 Cambie St/1311 Howe St, Vancouver
quarantine stay Meals: No
• Private, COVID-safe transportation from the airport to your hotel Contact reservations@gecliving.com to book.
• 4-week guard.me health insurance plan with COVID-19 coverage
• Mental wellness counselling services during quarantine through keep. Casa Vancouver
me SAFE by guard.me Rate: Varies
Location: Varies
Book here (for booking demo, watch this video). You can also learn more in Meals: Varies
this User Guide. Homestay and private suite options. Book here.
Canada Homestay Network (CHN) Safe Arrival
Rate: Varies
Location: Varies (homestay and hotel options) Hotels — Surrey
Meals: 3 meals provided per day
In collaboration with the Canadian Association for Public Schools - Interna- Civic Hotel Autograph Collection by Marriott
tional and Languages Canada, CHN has developed full service quarantine Rate: $105 per night
accomodation options for international students. Location: 13475 Central Ave, Surrey (2 minute walk to
• 14-night stay with a host family or at a hotel (CHN discount code) Skytrain station)
• 24/7 emergency support Meals: In-room service available at additional cost. Mini
• Emotional support available through counselling with keep.me SAFE by fridge also available upon request.
guard.me Email Jillian Elijah at jillian.elijah@civichotel.ca and
• Virtual programming activities during the quarantine period with other mention KPU to book. Or, book online at civichotel.
CHN students ca using promo code LTS. $65 flat rate for transporta-
• Learn more here or visit the CHN website here tion from YVR to hotel also available. Contact Jillian to
arrange.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
10Hotels — Richmond Hotels — Vancouver
Westin Wall Centre, Vancouver Airport Carmana Plaza
Rate: $129+tax per night for minimum 14-night stay Rate: $115+tax per night for minimum 14-night stay
Location: 3071 St Edwards Drive, Richmond Location: 1128 Alberni St, Vancouver
Meals: Rooms include $200 in-room dining credit, Meals: No, but Urban Fare (grocery store across the street) can do delivery
complimentary daily bottled water, and mini-fridges. service
Electric kettles also available upon request. Email Kari Wang at info@carmanaplaza.com and indicate that you are with
Stay also includes: complimentary transportation KPU to receive the promotional rate.
(taxi voucher) from YVR airport (one way), contactless
check-in with mobile check-in, 5 free pay-per-view Executive Hotel Le Soleil
movie credits, 24/7 on-site security, complimentary Rate: From $1,200 for 2 weeks
access to PressReader which includes your choice of Location: 567 Hornby St, Vancouver
newspapers and magazines from a catalogue of thou- Meals: Available at additional cost
sands, complimentary internet access in guestoom, Email reservations@hotellesoleil.com or visit website to book.
and complimentary local calls. Book directly at this
link. Century Plaza
Rate: From $127 per night
Hilton Vancouver Airport Hotel Location: 1015 Burrard St, Vancouver
Rate: Inquire with hotel Meals: No
Location: 5911 Minoru Blvd, Richmond Email reserve@century-plaza.com or visit website to book the special 14-
Meals: Available at additional cost day extended stay rate.
Contact Andy Lee at yvrah-salesadm@hilton.com or
visit website to book. Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
Rate: $139+tax per night for minimum 14-night stay
Vancouver Airport Marriott Hotel Location: 1000 Burrard St, Vancouver
Rate: Inquire with hotel Meals: Rooms include $200 in-room dining credit, complimentary daily
Location: 7571 Westminster Highway, Richmond bottled water, and mini-fridges. Electric kettles also available upon request.
Meals: Available at additional cost Stay also includes: complimentary transportation (taxi voucher) from
Contact Karen Caporale at reservations@vancou- YVR airport (one way), contactless check-in with mobile check-in, 5 free
ver-marriott.com or visit website to book. pay-per-view movie credits, 24/7 on-site security, complimentary access to
PressReader which includes your choice of newspapers and magazines from
Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel a catalogue of thousands, complimentary internet access in guestoom, and
Rate: Inquire with hotel complimentary local calls. Book directly at this link.
Location: 7551 Westminster Highway, Richmond
Meals: Available at additional cost
Contact Karen Caporale at reservations@sheratonvan-
couverairport.com or visit website to book.
Transportation Options
Executive Hotel Vancouver Airport
Rate: Inquire with hotel
You must arrange private transportation (no public transit) from
Location: 7311 Westminster Highway, Richmond your point of arrival to your government-authorized hotel.
Meals: Available at additional cost
Contact Maswood Schah at dos.richmond@executive- You can drive yourself to your hotel if your private vehicle is:
hotels.net or visit website to book.
Travelodge Hotel by Wyndham Vancouver Airport • Parked in one of the airport’s parking lots and
Rate: Inquire with hotel • Within walking distance from the airport (for example, you
Location: 3071 St Edwards Drive, Richmond don’t need public transit to get to your vehicle)
Meals: No
Call 604-278-5155 or visit website to book.
Go directly to your hotel. Don’t stop for gas, food or other items.
If you don’t have your own private vehicle, you may take a:
• Shuttle bus for government-authorized hotels (follow in-
structions provided at the airport)
• Taxi or limousine
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
11Packing List
It’s important to prepare your essentials for quarantine as much as possible prior to travelling to Canada—remember,
you have to go straight to your place of quarantine upon arrival in Canada, and you cannot leave it except for urgent
medical attention. Here’s a 14-day quarantine packing list to help you get started. Add on or customize as needed.
Documents*
☐ Airline ticket
☐ Passport
☐ Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if applicable
☐ Valid study permit or port of entry letter that you were approved for a study permit
☐ Proof that you have enough money to support yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
☐ Letter of Acceptance/Confirmation of Enrollment from KPU
☐ Contact information for your host institution (KPU)
☐ Printed copy of your quarantine plan indicating:
• you have a place to stay
• you know how you’ll get to your destination, get groceries, and access essential services and medical care
☐ Documentation of a negative laboratory COVID-19 test result, taken within 72 hours of departure to Canada
☐ Printed ArriveCAN confirmation receipt
☐ Booking confirmation for a 3-night stay at a government-authorized accommodation unless exempt
*Make sure you have these documents available when you arrive in your carry-on luggage. You will be required to present these to a Canada Border
Services Agent when going through Canadian customs and immigration
Essentials
☐ Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, deodorant, floss, shaving products as needed)
☐ Menstrual products (pads/tampons as needed)
☐ Hand sanitizer (pack at least 1 travel-size bottle in your carry-on luggage)
☐ Shampoo, conditioner, and soap (pack in checked luggage if over 100ml)
☐ Laptop/tablet + charger
☐ Cellphone + charger
☐ Adaptor for Canadian electrical outlets (120V)
☐ Credit card that works in Canada (cash is not accepted for online orders of take-out food or grocery delivery)
☐ Thermometer
☐ 1 box of disposable gloves, with several pairs packed in your carry-on luggage (nitrile is preferred)
☐ 60 disposable facemasks or 30 disposable face masks + 1 reusable cloth face mask (pack at least 2 masks in your carry-on luggage)
☐ Minimum 1 month’s worth of any prescribed medications or vitamins you need to take
☐ Disinfectant wipes (pack several in your carry-on luggage)
Clothing Nice to Haves
☐ 2 weeks’ worth of tops (include long and short sleeve ☐ A book to read
options)
☐ Deck of cards if you enjoy playing solo card games
☐ 2 weeks’ worth of bottoms (include pants, shorts, and/or
skirt options) ☐ A journal to keep your thoughts in
☐ 2 weeks’ worth of undergarments, socks, and pyjamas ☐ Pre-downloaded movies/tv-shows on your tablet/laptop in
case WiFi stops working at your place of quarantine
☐ Sweaters or hoodies
☐ Pictures of home and your family
☐ Jacket
☐ Favourite non-perishable foods
☐ Exercise clothes
☐ Shoes (include formal, athletic, and casual options)
☐ Belts/accessories as needed
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
12Important Contacts
Emergencies Call 9-1-1 if you require emergency assistance from ambulance, fire, or police.
COVID-19 Support Get information and non-medical COVID-19 support from the BC CDC.
(non-medical) Phone: Call the BC CDC at 1-888-268-4219 (7:30AM - 8PM daily)
Website: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19
Self-Assessment Tool and BC COVID-19 App: https://bc.thrive.health/
Medical Information and Call 8-1-1 to reach HealthLink BC. For deaf or hearing impaired (TTY), call 7-1-1. HealthLink BC provides free,
Advice confidential health information and advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Website: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/
Poison Control Call Poison Control immediately at 1-800-567-8911 toll-free in B.C. or 604-682-5050 in Greater Vancouver if you
are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance.
Website: http://www.dpic.org/
Alcohol & Drug Informa- Call 1-800-663-1441 toll-free in BC or 604-660-9382 in Greater Vancouver for free, confidential information and
tion referral services for substance use issues (alcohol or other drugs). Multilingual services are available 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week.
Website: https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/mental-health-substance-use/resources/adirs
Suicide Prevention The Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of BC provides confidential, non-judgemental, free emo-
tional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including
thoughts of suicide.
Call 1-800-734-2433 if you considering suicide or are concerned about someone who is.
Call 310-6789 for mental health support, emotional support, and mental health information and resources
Website: https://crisiscentre.bc.ca/
KPU International You can contact KPU International for non-emergency travel and study related support (contact 9-1-1 for emer-
gencies).
Phone: +1-604-599-2866 (Mon, Tues, Thurs, and Fri 1PM-4PM)
Email: internationaltransitions@kpu.ca
Mental Health Support & KPU Student Resources
Travelling to a different country and staying quarantined for 14 days can be challenging, so don’t
hesitate to reach out and take care of your mental health. There are many resources available to you as a KPU student.
KPU Student Resources - Quick Guide The Quarantine Student Connection
Visit: https://www.kpu.ca/current-students/covid-19-resources The Quarantine Student Connection is a profes-
sionally monitored, weekly support group via
KPU Counselling Services videoconferencing for students in mandatory
Phone: 604-599-2828 quarantine. We recommend joining so that you
Email: counsellor@kpu.ca can stay connected with other students online.
Website: kpu.ca/counselling Registration Link: https://www.guard.me/well-
ness_and_learning_initiatives.php
KPU Keep.meSAFE/MySSP
Keep.meSAFE provides all KPU students with 24/7 professional Crisis Centre of BC
counselling in multiple languages. You can access Keep.me- The Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention
SAFE anytime by calling or using the app. Centre of BC provides confidential, non-judge-
Learn more: https://www.kpu.ca/keepmesafe mental, free emotional support 24 hours a day, 7
days a week, for people experiencing feelings of
KPU Peer Support Program distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide.
The Kwantlen Student Association (KUSA) can help connect
you with support from a trained volunteer who is a
student just like you.
Learn more: http://www.kusa.ca/peersupport/
Here2Talk
Free, confidential 24/7 counselling and community referral
services for BC’s post-secondary students.
Phone: 604-642-5212 or 1-877-857-3397
Website: https://here2talk.ca/
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
13Anti-Racism Resources and COVID-19 Stigma Support
If you experience racism, stigma because of COVID-19, or other discrimination, there is support available to help you,
and actions that you can take. Please remember that you have the right to be treated with dignity and respect at
all times. You have the right to be safe.
Learn More About Anti-Racism and COVID-19 Stigma
• Anti-Racism FAQs by the Province of British Columbia
• COVID-19: Testing & Reducing Stigma by the Government of Canada
• Social Stigma associated with COVID-19 by the World Health Organization
Where You Can Get Support
• Hate Crimes in BC by ResilienceBC
• Learn how to take action if you are a victim of racism or hate, or if you witness a racist or hate incident. Available in Chinese
(Simplified and Traditional), French, Arabic, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Punjabi, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.
• Student Rights & Responsibilities Office at KPU
• The Student RIghts & Responsibilities Office helps foster a respectful, engaging, and collaborative environment at KPU. SRRO
can help with Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and Restorative Dialogues.
• Here2Talk by the Province of British Columbia
• Here2Talk connects students with mental health support when they need it. Through this program, all students currently
registered in a B.C. post-secondary institution have access to free, confidential counselling and community referral services,
conveniently available 24/7 via app, phone, and web.
Insurance Coverage
You will have medical insurance coverage in Canada starting May 1, provided that you are registered for classes for
Summer 2021. I New international students are automatically enrolled in KPU’s Temporary Medical Insurance Plan,
administered by guard.me.
If you are planning to arrive in Canada before May 1 for the Summer 2021 semester, you must purchase ad-
ditional early arrival coverage. We recommend that you purchase the additional early arrival coverage through
guard.me for seamless comprehensive coverage. Purchase this additional coverage through guard.me directly:
https://www.guard.me/kpu/department/early-arrivals. Having the right medical and travel insurance is critical to
avoid unnecessary financial burdens. Without insurance, medical and emergency care in Canada and abroad can be
extremely expensive.
Please note: Your medical insurance coverage does not cover costs associated with self-isolation or quarantine, such
as accommodation, food, and entertainment. For a full overview of what is covered under your plan, visit the guard.
me website directly.
Internet and Bandwidth
If pursuing your studies online is not possible from your home country due to internet restrictions or bandwidth
limitations, we recommend that you have documentation to support this. Here are some websites you can use to test
your internet and bandwith:
• https://www.speedtest.net/
• https://fast.com/
• https://support.bell.ca/internet/internet-speed-test
• https://www.backblaze.com/speedtest/
Please note: this information is being provided as a courtesy to students. The listed services are not subject to any form of University
inspection. KPU does not take responsibility for off-campus services.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
14Technological Requirements to Support Online Delivery of Classes
All students registered for the Fall 2020 semester at KPU must meet the minimum technological requirements for
online course delivery. If you can’t meet the requirements listed below, you should not be enrolled in courses for the
fall semester. Please visit the Registration Guide for more information regarding the Fall 2020 academic term.
Technological Requirements
• Access to a laptop, personal computer, or tablet (a cellphone is not sufficient)
• Access to reliable internet
Note for Computer Aided Design and Drafting program students only: The minimum technological requirements to
take CADD and CADA classes are above and beyond what’s listed here. Please visit the CADD Technologies page to see
the minimum technological requirements for CADD and CADA classes and ensure that you meet them.
Meal Plans and Grocery Delivery Options
Even if your place of quarantine doesn’t offer meal plans, you cannot leave your place of quarantine to buy groceries
or go eat at a restaurant. Luckily, there are many meal and grocery options in Greater Vancouver that now offer
contactless delivery. We recommend that you browse the following list to explore your options. You will need a credit
card that works in Canada to use these services as they will not accept cash.
Please note: this information is being provided as a courtesy to students. The listed services are not subject to any form of
University inspection. KPU does not take responsibility for off-campus services.
Service Provider Type Website Notes
Uber Eats Takeout Food Delivery https://www.ubereats.com/ca
Skip the Dishes Takeout Food Delivery https://www.skipthedishes.com/
Door Dash Takeout Food Delivery https://www.doordash.com/en-US
Fantuan Takeout Food Delivery https://www.fantuan.ca/delivery/en/ Website/app also available in Chinese
Instacart Grocery Delivery https://www.instacart.ca/
Save-On-Foods Grocery Delivery https://www.saveonfoods.com/ Minimum order of $40 for delivery
shop-online-how-it-works/
T&T Supermarket Grocery Delivery https://www.tntsupermarket.com/ Website/service also available in Chinese
Spud Grocery Delivery https://www.spud.ca/ Each delivery area has free delivery once a week. Delivery
is also free for most orders over $35
Stong’s Market Grocery Delivery https://stongs.com/ Delivery available to Bowen Island, Vancouver, and North
and West Vancouver only
Yogi’s Kitchen Meal Delivery https://www.yogiskitchen.ca/ Ready-to-eat Indian-style meals
Fresh Prep Meal Kit Delivery https://www.freshprep.ca/ Ready-to-cook meal kits with pre-measured ingredients.
You will need access to a kitchen to prepare these meals.
Chef’s Plate Meal Kit Delivery https://www.chefsplate.com/ Ready-to-cook meal kits with pre-measured ingredients.
You will need access to a kitchen to prepare these meals.
Hello Fresh Meal Kit Delivery https://www.hellofresh.ca/ Ready-to-cook meal kits with pre-measured ingredients.
You will need access to a kitchen to prepare these meals.
Good Food Meal Kit Delivery https://www.makegoodfood.ca/en/ Ready-to-cook meal kits with pre-measured ingredients.
home You will need access to a kitchen to prepare these meals.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
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