COVID-19 – Updates on B.C. travel restrictions affecting VCC

A message from the VCC Emergency Operations Centre (EOC)

Effective Friday, April 23, 2021, the B.C. government has expanded travel restrictions to stop non-essential travel outside of one’s local area. These travel restrictions will remain in effect until at least May 25, 2021, which includes the upcoming Victoria Day holiday weekend. 

Vancouver Community College (VCC) is urging all students and employees to review these restrictions and avoid any travel for non-essential purposes such vacations and social visits, including outdoor recreation.

Please note that previously implemented restrictions regarding indoor gatherings, exercise classes, restaurant dining, and masks have also been extended to May 25. 2021. 

Travelling for school

VCC students and employees may continue to travel between regions in order to attend school, as the B.C. government has stated that essential travel includes travel for post-secondary education and training. Allowed activities include travel to attend post-secondary classes or receive training through a post-secondary institution, including participating in practical learning activities such as fieldwork, practicums, and clinical placements.

International travel

Effective Thursday, April 22, the Government of Canada has also suspended all flights from the countries of India and Pakistan for at least 30 days in order to limit the international spread of COVID-19. 

VCC International Education recommends that any international students who are planning to travel to Canada from India or Pakistan should not make flight arrangements during this period until further notice. International students may call 604.443.8600 or email ieservices@vcc.ca with any questions or concerns regarding these travel restrictions.

For full details, see our latest bulletin for incoming international students to VCC.

Monitoring and maintaining your mental health

We understand that many of these recent announcements may cause an increase in stress, worry, or feelings of isolation or frustration for VCC students and employees. We strongly recommend reaching out for help if this is the case, as many resources are available.

International students
For students affected by international travel restrictions, the B.C. government has complied this list of resources including many Punjabi-language services and translations.

All VCC students
All VCC students may access VCC’s free counselling services or the B.C. government’s 24-hour Here2Talk mental health support network.

VCC employees
VCC employees are reminded that the college’s Employee Family Assistance Plan provides access to multiple helpful resources including counselling services, stress management, and help with financial concerns.  

Feeling sick? Use the B.C. COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool to help determine if you should be tested for COVID-19. 

Get on the list. All British Columbians 18 years of age or older may now register to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.