Canadian Government's New Measures for International Students

Hello, dear readers! As an experienced blogger at Step to Abroad, I am excited to share the latest updates from the Canadian government concerning international students. Recently, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) proposed significant changes that could impact students and educational institutions alike. Let’s dive into the details in a friendly and easy-to-understand manner. New Measures for International Students

Overview of Proposed Changes

The Canadian federal government aims to tighten regulations on Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) and ensure that students comply with their study permit conditions. These changes include:

Compulsory Reporting on Student Attendance
Suspensions for Non-Compliant Schools
New Study Permits for Switching DLIs
Increased Part-Time Work Rights

Compulsory Reporting on Student Attendance

Under the new proposals, DLIs must confirm student attendance more rigorously. This move is intended to ensure that study permits are only issued to students attending genuine institutions that meet both federal and provincial standards. New Measures for International Students

Permanent Reporting Requirements

Previously, DLIs had a temporary measure to confirm Letters of Acceptance (LOAs) from students within ten days. This measure will now become permanent. Additionally, schools must submit a compliance report on each student’s enrollment status within 60 days of an IRCC request. If further information is needed, it must be provided within ten days. New Measures for International Students

Suspensions for Non-Compliant Schools

One of the most impactful changes is the ability of IRCC officers to suspend non-compliant institutions. If a DLI fails to meet the necessary conditions, they can be placed on a suspension list for up to 12 months. New Measures for International Students

Implications of Suspension

During the suspension period, these institutions cannot enroll new students. The IRCC will also publish a non-compliance list, including the DLI’s name, website, compliance issue, and suspension duration. This transparency aims to maintain the integrity of the international student program. New Measures for International Students

If a student has applied for a study permit naming a suspended DLI, their application will be returned unprocessed, along with all supporting documents and processing fees.

New Study Permits for Switching DLIs

Students will now need to apply for a new study permit if they wish to switch to a different DLI. This measure ensures that the new institution complies with all required standards before the student can transfer.

Transition Period

Switching Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada is about to become a more structured and regulated process under the new measures proposed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This transition period is crucial for students who wish to change their institution of study while ensuring compliance with the new regulations. Let’s break down the details to help you understand what this means and how it will affect your journey as an international student in Canada.

Why a New Study Permit is Required

Under the current system, international students in Canada can switch DLIs without needing to obtain a new study permit. However, this flexibility has led to concerns about maintaining the integrity of the international student program. The proposed changes aim to ensure that students are transferring to institutions that meet both federal and provincial standards, thereby enhancing the overall quality and reliability of education provided to international students.

By requiring a new study permit for DLI transfers, the IRCC can verify that the new institution complies with all necessary regulations. This step is essential to prevent students from inadvertently enrolling in non-compliant schools, which could jeopardize their education and immigration status.

Applying for a New Study Permit

If you plan to switch to a different DLI, you will need to submit a new study permit application. This process involves several key steps:

Choosing a New DLI:

Ensure that the new institution is a designated learning institution recognized by the IRCC. You can find a list of approved DLIs on the IRCC website.

Gathering Required Documents:

Prepare the necessary documents for your new study permit application. These typically include a letter of acceptance from the new DLI, proof of financial support, and any other documents specified by the IRCC.

Submitting the Application:

Submit your new study permit application before the start date of your new program. It is crucial to apply early to avoid any disruptions in your studies.

Awaiting Approval:

While waiting for a decision on your new study permit, you are allowed to attend the new DLI as long as you remain in Canada and comply with all other study permit conditions.

Continuing Studies During the Transition

One of the most significant aspects of the proposed regulations is that you can continue your studies at the new DLI while your new study permit application is being processed. This provision ensures that your education is not interrupted and allows you to maintain your academic progress without unnecessary delays.

However, it is important to note that you must remain compliant with all other conditions of your current study permit. This includes maintaining full-time student status (unless part-time is allowed under specific circumstances) and adhering to any work restrictions associated with your permit.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

Switching DLIs under the new regulations may present some challenges, including:

Compliance with Regulations:

Staying informed about the latest IRCC regulations and ensuring your new DLI complies with all requirements is crucial. Regularly check the IRCC website and communicate with your prospective institution to stay updated.

Application Processing Times:

The processing time for a new study permit can vary. It is essential to plan ahead and submit your application as early as possible to avoid delays that could impact your studies.

Financial Implications:

Applying for a new study permit involves additional costs, including application fees and potentially higher tuition fees at the new DLI. Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover these expenses.

Increased Part-Time Work Rights

In an effort to support international students financially, the new regulations propose increasing the part-time work allowance from 20 hours per week to 24 hours per week. This change provides more flexibility for students balancing work and studies.

Financial Implications

The government estimates that implementing these changes will cost approximately CAD 87 million over the next ten years. These costs include administrative expenses for the government, DLIs, and students who wish to switch institutions.

Recent Reforms in the International Student Program

The proposed measures are part of a broader effort by IRCC to reform the International Student Program. Recent changes include:

Cap on Postsecondary Study Permits: For 2024 and 2025, there is a cap on study permits for programs below the master’s level.

Increased Financial Requirements: The amount of funds needed to obtain a study permit has been raised.

PGWP Eligibility Changes: Students at public-private colleges are no longer eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Skill Shortage Considerations: IRCC is considering restricting PGWP eligibility to students with qualifications in areas of skill shortage.

Public Consultation

The Canadian public has until July 29 to comment on these proposed changes. This consultation period allows for feedback and suggestions from various stakeholders, ensuring that the final regulations are well-rounded and effective.

Conclusion: These proposed changes reflect Canada’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and quality of its international student program. By enforcing stricter reporting requirements, suspending non-compliant institutions, and ensuring that students transfer to compliant DLIs, the Canadian government aims to create a more reliable and transparent system.

As an international student or someone considering studying in Canada, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes and how they might affect you. Here at Step to Abroad, we’re dedicated to providing you with the latest updates and helpful advice to navigate your educational journey in Canada.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is based on the most recent updates available at the time of writing. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the content, we make no warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied, about the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the post for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Source: studytravel.network

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