Vancouver Island University is committed to supporting international students affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Building on measures put into place by the Government of Canada, VIU's goal is to support and assist students from Ukraine who want to live and study safely in Canada.
Individuals entering Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, are eligible to apply for a study and work permit upon arrival in Canada. While on the CUAET program, those individuals who wish to begin or continue their post-secondary education at Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo, BC, will be able to apply without charge and be eligible to pay domestic tuition fees on an interim emergency basis and as a temporary resident of British Columbia, will also be eligible for coverage under the Medical Services Plan of BC.
If you have not yet applied to VIU, we would encourage you to do so as soon as possible. You may find the international student application form here: https://students.viu.ca/Inted/pub_main.asp.
International students from Ukraine will have access to:
- Full academic support
- Access to apply for bursaries to assist with tuition
Please reach out by email to WorldVIU@viu.ca for more information.
Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel
In an effort to make it easier for displaced international students from Ukraine to travel to safety in Canada, the Government of Canada is offering free, extended residency status, allowing Ukrainian citizens and their families to study, work and stay in Canada until it's safe to return to their homes.
Ukrainians and their families coming to Canada:
- can apply for a free visitor visa and stay in Canada for up to 3 years
- have the option to apply for an open work permit along with their visa application
- electronic visa applications will be processed within 14 days in most cases
- are exempt from Canada's COVID-19 vaccination entry requirements, but must meet all other public health requirements for travel
You can learn more on the Government of Canada website.
Local Community Support
Organizations, businesses and individuals across Vancouver Island have also come together in support of Ukraine. There are numerous examples of donations and events organized in support of displaced Ukrainians. The government of BC is also expanding services and supports intended to connect those in need with the help they need.