August 25, 2020
This Week’s Success Story: Study Permit Approval for Mature Student!
A client retained our office after receiving a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (“DLI”) to study at a college in Canada. We carefully crafted our submissions as the client was a mature student who had already completed an advanced degree abroad. In addition, the client’s country of origin was one known for ongoing conflict, which might have raised concerns about the client’s likelihood of leaving Canada at the end of the authorized period of stay. We explained, while referring to ample case law to support our position, that it cannot be assumed that an individual whose country of origin is one with ongoing conflict that the individual will overstay as a result, especially if they can demonstrate strong ties to other countries. We also assisted the client in preparing a detailed study plan to explain her decision to study in Canada, and how the proposed program of study would assist in achieving long-term career goals. Thankfully our client’s study permit application was approved!