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
Information for International Students Travelling to Canada.............................................. 3
Travel Exemptions and Restrictions for International Students......................................... 3
When You Travel to Canada.................................................................................................. 3
If Immediate Family Members Want to Be With You in Canada.......................................... 4
What Is Quarantine?................................................................................................................ 5
Quarantine Requirements.................................................................................................... 5
What to Do Prior to Travelling to Canada............................................................................... 6
Travel Requirements Checklist............................................................................................ 6
Travel & Quarantine Plan..................................................................................................... 6
iCent App............................................................................................................................... 7
ArriveCAN.............................................................................................................................. 7
CBSA Voluntary Compliance Portal..................................................................................... 7
What to Do Upon Arrival in Canada........................................................................................ 8
Mandatory as of November 21, 2020: Check-in with the Public Health Agency of Canada
through ArriveCAN................................................................................................................ 8
Check-in with KPU International......................................................................................... 8
Quarantine (self-isolate) for a Minimum of 14 Days ........................................................... 8
What to Do if You Develop Symptoms of Illness While in Quarantine................................ 8
What to Do When the 14-day Quarantine Period Is Over ................................................... 8
Resources for Your Arrival in Canada..................................................................................... 9
Accommodations.................................................................................................................. 9
Transportation Options...................................................................................................... 10
Packing List......................................................................................................................... 11
Important Contacts............................................................................................................ 12
Mental Health Support & KPU Student Resources............................................................ 12
Anti-Racism Resources and COVID-19 Stigma Support.................................................... 13
Insurance Coverage............................................................................................................ 13
Internet and Bandwidth..................................................................................................... 13
Technological Requirements to Support Online Delivery of Classes............................... 14
Meal Plans and Grocery Delivery Options......................................................................... 14
This document was last updated on December 3, 2020.
For the most up-to-date information, consult kpu.ca/international/travel
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
2Information for International Students Travelling
to Canada
Travel Exemptions and Restrictions for International Students
To be able to enter Canada as an international student after October 20, 2020, you must meet both of the following
requirements:
1. You must have a valid study permit or a letter of introduction that shows you were approved for a study permit
2. You must be attending a designated learning institution (DLI) with a COVID-19 readiness plan approved by its
province or territory
• As a student at KPU, you meet this requirement. Kwantlen Polytechnic University is on the list of DLIs with approved
COVID-19 readiness plans
Your travel to Canada must be deemed essential (non-discretionary) in order for you to enter Canada. As an interna-
tional student, your travel to Canada will be considered essential (non-discretionary) if you have all of the required
documents and your DLI is on the approved list. Your travel to Canada won’t be considered essential if:
• Your study program has been cancelled or suspended
• You’re entering Canada for any reason other than to study
When You Travel to Canada
When the border services officer greets you, they will look at several factors, including:
• Your reason for travelling to Canada
• Your ability to complete a 14-day quarantine period as soon
as you arrive at your final destination
• If you either:
• have time to complete your quarantine before you physically
attend classes, or
• can study online during your quarantine
You must bring:
• A valid study permit or a port of entry letter of introduction that shows you were approved for a study permit
• A valid letter of acceptance from KPU
• KPU also recommends that you request a Letter of Support from KPU to bring with you. Check out the section “What to Do
Prior to Travelling to Canada” for further information on how to request a Letter of Support
• Proof that you have enough money to support yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
• Your ArriveCAN receipt
Additionally, you must:
• Follow all public health measures for travellers
• Have a valid 14-day quarantine plan for when you arrive to Canada
You will also be required to wear a non-medical mask or face covering during travel, including to the place you’ll quar-
antine. Before you travel, 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.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
3If Immediate Family Members Want to Be With You in Canada
Your immediate family members may be able to come with you to Canada. An immediate family member is defined as a:
• Spouse or common-law partner
• Dependent child
• Parent or step-parent
• Guardian or tutor (a guardian or tutor cares for a foreign national minor child who lives apart from a parent, for
example, to attend a secondary school in Canada. The guardian or tutor must be able to prove that they normally
live at the same address as the minor child.)
If they travel with you
They don’t need written authorization from IRCC to travel with you. However, they must show that their reasons for
travel are non-discretionary (non-optional). For example, they’ll help you get established and support you in Canada.
If your immediate family member will study or work in Canada
You must submit all of your applications together when you apply online.
If they won’t study or work
They may still need an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa to travel to Canada. If they need a
visitor visa, you should include their application when you apply online for your study permit. If they need an
eTA, they must apply for one separately. Make sure they follow the special instructions on how to apply for an
eTA at this time.
If they join you later
If you’re already in Canada, or will travel to Canada by yourself first and your family will join you later, what they need
to travel to Canada depends on where they’re travelling from. Find out what they need to join you in Canada. They
may also need an eTA or a visitor visa to travel to Canada.
More Information
International students planning to travel to Canada should clearly understand the laws and regulations of the Government of
Canada and the Government of BC prior to making 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 implemented an Emergency Order under the Quarantine Act that requires persons
entering Canada—whether by air, sea or land—to quarantine (self-isolate) themselves for 14 days, even if they are
showing no symptoms of illness, in order to limit the introduction and spread of COVID-19. The 14-day period begins
on the day the person enters Canada.
Before confirming plans to travel to Canada, international KPU students must share their travel and quarantine
plans with KPU.
Additionally, if you are flying to Canada on or after November 21, 2020, it is mandatory to use ArriveCAN prior to trav-
elling to provide your travel and contact information, quarantine plan, and COVID-19 symptom self-assessment to the
Public Health Authority of Canada.
It’s also recommended that you complete a BC Self-Isolation Plan.
Quarantine Requirements
During the 14-day quarantine period, you must:
• 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. You are only permitted to leave your place of quarantine if you
need to seek medical attention
• Monitor yourself for any symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing
• Avoid contact with others, even if you do not have any symptoms
• Practice physical distancing at all times
• Comply with all the orders of the BC Provincial Health Officer
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
Note: The 14-day quarantine period starts again if, during your quarantine period, you develop any signs and
symptoms of COVID-19, including those noted above. Seek direction from HealthLink BC.
Have a phone with you in quarantine ☎
Government of Canada officials may call to verify your compliance with the mandatory quarantine rules during your
14-day quarantine. Please be prepared to answer calls from 1-888-336-7735.
For more information on quarantine, consult the following resources:
• Government of BC: Self-Isolation on Return to BC
• BC CDC: Self-Isolation for Travellers Returning to Canada
• 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
5What 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 Travel & Quarantine Plan to KPU
Once you complete these two requirements, KPU will assess your plan. If it is approved, you will receive a
Letter of Support. Once you receive your Letter of Support from KPU, you must:
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
Note: The Letter of Support should be presented along with your other documents to the Canada Border Services
Agency upon arrival to Canada to help confirm your eligibility to come to Canada. However, a Letter of Support is not
a guarantee of entry. 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 read the latest guidelines on mandatory quarantine
☐ I have secured accommodations for the 14-day quarantine period
Please refer to the resources section for guidelines on accommodations
☐ I have secured suitable private transportation from the airport to my accommodations
☐ 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 Spring 2021 term, your temporary medical insurance coverage with KPU does not begin until January 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
Travel & Quarantine Plan
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, submit the Travel & Quarantine Plan webform at least 2 weeks
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
6iCent 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 and available for download on the Apple App Store and
the Google Play Store.
ArriveCAN
As of November 21, 2020, it is mandatory for all travellers flying to Canada
to submit their COVID-related information digitally through ArriveCAN.
Before you board your flight, you must use ArriveCAN to provide your:
• travel and contact information
• quarantine plan (unless exempt under conditions set out in the Man-
datory Isolation Order)
• COVID-19 symptom self-assessment
You must be ready to show your ArriveCAN receipt when seeking entry into
Canada; a border services officer will verify that you have submitted your
information digitally. Travellers who do not submit the required informa-
tion 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
7What to Do Upon Arrival in Canada
Mandatory as of November 21, 2020: Check-in with the Public Health Agency of
Canada through ArriveCAN
• Within 48 hours of your entry into Canada, confirm that you’ve arrived at the address you provided for your
quarantine or isolation location by using ArriveCAN or calling 1-833-641-0343.
• During your quarantine, complete daily COVID-19 symptom self-assessments by using ArriveCAN or by
calling 1-833-641-0343.
Check-in with KPU International
• Immediately upon arrival, submit the “Confirmation of Arrival” form, available through the iCent app, to
inform KPU International that you have arrived in Canada.
• During your quarantine, check-in on a daily basis with KPU International by using the “Daily Check-In”
form, available through the iCent app. These daily check-ins help us to confirm that you are remaining in
your place of isolation and to inform us of any symptoms you may be facing.
Quarantine (self-isolate) for a Minimum of 14 Days
The 14-day quarantine period begins on the day you enter Canada. During the 14-day quarantine period,
you must:
• 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. You are only permitted to leave your place of quarantine if you
need to seek medical attention
• Monitor yourself for any symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing
• Avoid contact with others, even if you do not have any symptoms
• Practice physical distancing at all times
• Comply with all the orders of the BC Provincial Health Officer
What to Do if You Develop Symptoms of Illness While in Quarantine
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 fol-
low their instructions carefully
• Contact KPU International by emailing internationaltransitions@kpu.ca
What to Do When the 14-day Quarantine Period Is Over
• Submit clearance to internationaltransitions@kpu.ca
• Explore the web resource You’ve Finished Your Quarantine—Now What?
Additional Quarantine Resources
• Government of BC: Self-Isolation on Return to BC
• BC CDC: Self-Isolation for Travellers Returning to Canada
• 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
8Resources for Your Arrival in Canada
Accommodations
Your accommodations must meet quarantine requirements by allowing you to safely isolate from others. Acceptable
accommodations include:
• Private residence with no shared living spaces
• A private residence can be your own home in Canada or a residence provided by a friend or family member. However, for the private res-
idence to meet quarantine requirements, you cannot be living with anyone else at this residence—you cannot share a room, bathroom,
kitchen, entrance, or any other living space with another individual (including friends, family, roommates, or others)
• Hotel
• Student accommodations
• Homestay
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: $2,201.93 - $3,123.38 for 14 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, Brand new residences opened on August 1, 2020. Contact
Languages Canada has created a convenient, all-inclusive, and paula@cypressaccommodations.com or call (236) 788 4365
worry-free Safe Arrival and Quarantine package for international to book. Mention KPU when booking.
students that includes:
GEC Accommodations
• 14-night quarantine hotel stay at discounted rates Rate: From $1,160 for 2 weeks or FREE for initial 14 days
• Canadian phone number and SIM card for your mobile device for when booking a minimum of 6 months (see promotion here)
1 month, including 5GB of data, unlimited Canada-wide calling, Location: 7657 Cambie St / 1311 Howe St, Vancouver
and unlimited international text and picture messaging Meals: No
• 3 meals per day delivered to your hotel room for the duration of Contact reservations@gecliving.com to book.
your quarantine stay
• Private, COVID-safe transportation from the airport to your hotel Casa Vancouver
• 4-week guard.me health insurance plan with COVID-19 coverage Rate: Varies
• Mental wellness counselling services during quarantine through Location: Varies
Keep.me SAFE by guard.meCares Meals: Varies
Homestay and private suite options. Learn more and book
Book here (for booking demo, watch this video). You can also learn here.
more in this User Guide.
Hotels — Surrey
Civic Hotel Autograph Collection by Marriott
Rate: $105 per night
Location: 13475 Central Ave, Surrey (2 minute walk to Skytrain station)
Meals: In-room service available at additional cost. Mini fridge also available upon request.
Email Jillian Elijah at jillian.elijah@civichotel.ca and mention KPU to book. Or, book online at civichotel.ca using promo code LTS. $65 flat
rate for transportation from YVR to hotel also available. Contact Jillian to arrange.
Accommodations continued on next page
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
9Hotels — 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, compli- Meals: No, but Urban Fare (grocery store across the street) can do
mentary daily bottled water, and mini-fridges. Electric kettles delivery service
also available upon request. Email Kari Wang at info@carmanaplaza.com and indicate that you
Stay also includes: complimentary transportation (taxi vouch- are with KPU to receive the promotional rate.
er) from YVR airport (one way), contactless check-in with
mobile check-in, 5 free pay-per-view movie credits, 24/7 on-site Executive Hotel Le Soleil
security, complimentary access to PressReader which includes Rate: From $1,200 for 2 weeks
your choice of newspapers and magazines from a catalogue of Location: 567 Hornby St, Vancouver
thousands, complimentary internet access in guestoom, and Meals: Available at additional cost
complimentary local calls. Book directly at this link. Email reservations@hotellesoleil.com or visit website to book.
Sandman Hotel Vancouver Airport Century Plaza
Rate: $55 per night Rate: From $127 per night
Location: 3233 St Edwards Drive, Richmond Location: 1015 Burrard St, Vancouver
Meals: Available at additional cost Meals: No
Contact Sylvia Jung at res_richmond@sandman.ca and quote Email reserve@century-plaza.com or visit website to book the
group code “898537” to book special rate. special 14-day extended stay rate.
Hilton Vancouver Airport Hotel Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
Rate: Inquire with hotel Rate: $139+tax per night for minimum 14-night stay
Location: 5911 Minoru Blvd, Richmond Location: 1000 Burrard St, Vancouver
Meals: Available at additional cost Meals: Rooms include $200 in-room dining credit, complimentary
Contact Andy Lee at yvrah-salesadm@hilton.com or visit web- daily bottled water, and mini-fridges. Electric kettles also available
site to book. upon request.
Stay also includes: complimentary transportation (taxi voucher)
Vancouver Airport Marriott Hotel from YVR airport (one way), contactless check-in with mobile
Rate: Inquire with hotel check-in, 5 free pay-per-view movie credits, 24/7 on-site security,
Location: 7571 Westminster Highway, Richmond complimentary access to PressReader which includes your choice
Meals: Available at additional cost of newspapers and magazines from a catalogue of thousands,
Contact Karen Caporale at reservations@vancouver-marriott. complimentary internet access in guestoom, and complimentary
com or visit website to book. local calls. Book directly at this link.
Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel
Rate: Inquire with hotel
Location: 7551 Westminster Highway, Richmond
Transportation Options
Meals: Available at additional cost You must arrange private transportation (no public transit)
Contact Karen Caporale at reservations@sheratonvancouverai- from your point of arrival to your place of quarantine.
rport.com or visit website to book.
If you are coming to Canada by flight to YVR airport, please
Executive Hotel Vancouver Airport
Rate: Inquire with hotel
consider one of the following options.
Location: 7311 Westminster Highway, Richmond • Pick-up by family or friend in a private vehicle
Meals: Available at additional cost • Taxis — taxis and wheelchair-accessible vehicles are
Contact Maswood Schah at dos.richmond@executivehotels.net available at taxi stands located on Level 2 of the Do-
or visit website to book. mestic and International Arrivals Area at YVR.
Travelodge Hotel by Wyndham Vancouver Airport • Ride App Services, such as Uber or Lyft
Rate: Inquire with hotel
Location: 3071 St Edwards Drive, Richmond
Meals: No
Call 604-278-5155 or visit website to book.
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
10Packing 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 before March 18, 2020
☐ Proof of finances
☐ Letter of Acceptance/Confirmation of Enrollment from KPU
☐ Letter of Support from KPU
☐ Contact information for your host institution (KPU)
☐ Printed copy of your quarantine plan
☐ Proof that you’re travelling for a non-discretionary purpose
*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 and socks ☐ 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
☐ Pyjamas
☐ Shoes (include formal, athletic, and casual options)
☐ Belts/accessories as needed
COVID-19 Guide for International Students • KPU International, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
11Important 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
12Anti-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 September 1, provided that you are registered for
classes for Fall 2020. If you are registered for classes for Spring 2021, you will have medical insurance coverage start-
ing January 1. 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 January 1 for the Spring 2021 semester, you must purchase
additional 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
13Technological 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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