IRCC Proposes New Changes for Canada Study Visa Holders

The Immigration Authority of Canada, IRCC (Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada), has recently released the news in the Canadian Gazette (the official newspaper of the Canadian government). The news states that the Canadian Immigration Authority plans to change Canada’s International Study Program. 

Through this recommendation, IRCC suggests international students reapply for a Canada   Study Visa if they change or are planning to change their DLI (Designated Learning Institution). 

DLIs are the only institutions in Canada that have been approved to accept foreign students, and they must follow the regulations set by the IRCC. 

Currently, DLIs are governed by provincial laws and are subject to provincial jurisdiction. There is no way for the federal government to guarantee that specific colleges adhere to the new admissions guidelines. 

This article will provide all related information about the same. But before proceeding, let us understand what IRCC recommends to foreign students planning to change schools in Canada. 

What Is IRCC Recommending To Foreign Students Planning to Change Schools In Canada? 

According to the press release, the IRCC recommends the following things to foreign students.   

• Foreign students planning to change or switch to the DLI (Designated Learning Institution) should apply for a new study permit before the commencement of the new study program and 
• The foreign student will still be eligible to attend the new DLI without having a valid study permit until there is no decision on their application, provided they remain in Canada and meet all current permit conditions.   

Impact Of This Change On International Students And DLIs In Canada 

The following information explains the impact of this change on international students and DLIs in Canada. 

• Impact on international students: $150 per new application and 30 to 45 minutes per preparation, totalling $55.5 million PV over ten periods of 12 months, and the processing time may vary 
• DLIs: Compliance and administrative costs related to verifying Letters of Acceptance (LOAs), estimated at $4.8 million PV over ten periods.
• LOA verification typically takes three minutes per application but decreases to 30 seconds as institutions become more familiar with the process.

When Will These Changes be Implemented? 

Proposed changes are in the consultation phase. The consultation involved provincial and territorial ministries, national education associations, individual DLIs, and student representative organizations. Many previously in-consultation policies have been adopted. 

The policy focused on the LOA verification process was adopted on December 1st, 2023. Current study permit changes will be in consultation until July 29th, 2024. IRCC will consider the review and decide on further policy steps. 

Conclusion 

The Immigration Authority of Canada (IRCC) plans to alter Canada's International Study Program, requiring international students to reapply for permits if they change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI). The change will cost around $55.5 million over 12 months and will be in consultation until July 29th, 2024.

Contact Province Immigration at info@provinceimmigration.com or +91 98961 96762 for further information regarding the Canada Study Visa.