Disclaimer: The IRCC updates its policies from time to time. In case of policy changes, PLC will always adhere to the latest policy mentioned on this link – https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/while-you-study/study-permit-conditions.html

The Authorized Leave Policy outlines the conditions under which a student at Pacific Link College (PLC) may take a leave from their studies, the process for obtaining authorized leave, and the conditions under which a student remains in good standing with regard to their study permit.

Eligibility for Authorized Leave: Students enrolled at PLC may request an authorized leave for a period of up to a maximum of 150 days in the following circumstances:

• Medical reasons or pregnancy (with proof from a medical professional)
• Family emergencies such as a death or serious illness of a family member
• Change of schools or program deferment
• Institutional closures due to permanent shutdown or strike
• Other personal reasons as approved by PLC’s administration

The authorized leave must be approved by PLC’s administration in advance, and students are required to provide supporting documentation where applicable.

Duration of Leave:

Students may take an authorized leave for up to 150 days. If the student’s leave exceeds 150 days, they will no longer be considered to be actively pursuing their studies and may face immigration consequences. The student’s program will be marked as incomplete.

The student must return to their studies by the beginning of the next course after the leave, even if that occurs before the 150 days expire.

Conditions During Authorized Leave:

• Students cannot work on or off-campus during their authorized leave, even if their study permit permits work while studying in Canada.
• Students must maintain regular communication with PLC during their leave and update the institution if their circumstances change.
• Proof of Authorized Leave: If there is reason to believe the student is not meeting the conditions of their study permit, in such cases, students must be able to provide: Medical documentation, if applicable, to confirm the reason for the leave or any other relevant documentation that justifies the leave

Consequences of Failing to Meet Conditions: If students fail to return to their studies within the authorized leave period or violate the conditions of their study permit by, for example, working during their leave, they may face immigration consequences such as:

• Loss of student status
• Possible removal from Canada
• A six-month wait period before reapplying for a study permit or other visa

Return from Leave: Upon returning from authorized leave, students must:

• Resume their studies in the next available course
• Provide proof of their continued enrolment and academic progress

Procedure to Apply for Authorized Leave: To apply for an authorized leave:

• Submit a written request using the below form, outlining the reason for the leave and the requested duration.
• Provide supporting documentation (medical note, proof of family emergency, etc.).
• Wait for approval from PLC before taking the leave.

The student will be notified in writing whether the leave has been approved. All decisions are final and based on the supporting evidence provided.