An international student at Dalhousie University in Halifax is facing challenges with the Canadian immigration system due to a visa processing error that forced her to halt her studies and work.
Chihiro Kondo was left puzzled when her request for a study permit extension was rejected in October because a crucial document, the provincial attestation letter (PAL), was missing from her application. This oversight led to a distressing situation for Kondo as she could no longer pursue her studies or work as a teaching and research assistant once her previous visa had expired.
Seeking assistance, Kondo approached various individuals, including her academic supervisor, Prof. Sara Kirk, who expressed her concern over the impact of this error on Kondo’s academic progress and research projects.
After involving Halifax Chebucto MLA Krista Gallagher and Halifax MP Shannon Miedema, as well as reaching out to CBC News, Kondo’s case gained attention. Following inquiries from CBC, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada acknowledged the presence of the missing PAL in Kondo’s file at the time of submission. The immigration agency admitted to occasional human errors in processing applications and confirmed that Kondo’s study permit has now been approved after she submitted a request for reconsideration.
Despite the delay, Kondo expressed relief that the mistake was acknowledged and rectified, allowing her to resume her studies and work.