New Rules for Study Permit Holders: Changing Schools or Programs in Canada
New Rules for Study Permit Holders: Changing Schools or Programs in Canada
With Canada being one of the top choices for study pursuits by international students, the increase in demand has led the Government of Canada to introduce new regulations to maintain the integrity of the program.
On November 15, 2024, the government announced significant changes to the process of changing schools or programs for post-secondary study permit holders in Canada. If you’re a current or prospective international student, understanding these changes is crucial to ensure you remain compliant with your study permit conditions and continue your academic journey smoothly.
The changes in regulations also include improvements to benefit international students and protect them from fraud by introducing new rules for designated learning institutions (DLI) to report student information to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and adjustments to off-campus working hours for international students.
Key Updates and Rules to the International Student Program:
1. Updated Off-Campus Work Hours
Eligible international students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular school terms, up from the previous 20-hour limit. During scheduled breaks like summer holidays or winter break, students can work unlimited hours, provided they maintain full-time enrollment before and after the break (except before starting their first semester). For example, international students can combine multiple jobs, up to 24 hours weekly, while adhering to study permit conditions.
In making these announcements the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, emphasized the importance of these updates:
“By fixing the off-campus work limit to 24 hours per week, we’re striking the right balance between providing work opportunities and helping students stay focused on their education. We also expect institutions to support our efforts to preserve the integrity of the International Student Program. International students should have a positive, successful experience in Canada, and the important changes made today will help with that.”
2. New Study Permit Required for Changing Schools
Under the previous system, students could change Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) by simply notifying IRCC through their online account. However, with the new regulations in place:
- Students must now apply for a new study permit to change their DLI.
- Students must remain enrolled at the DLI listed on their current study permit until the new permit is approved.
Understanding the Process for Changing Schools
- Moving from Primary to Secondary Levels:
- You do not need a new study permit if your current permit is valid, unless it has specific conditions preventing the change.
- Changing DLIs Within Primary or Secondary Levels:
- A new study permit is not required if your current permit remains valid, unless there are conditions that limit this change.
- Transitioning from Secondary to Post-Secondary Levels:
- You will need to apply for a new study permit to enroll in a post-secondary institution.
- Important: If you finish secondary school early, your study permit becomes invalid 90 days after completing your studies, regardless of the expiry date shown on the permit.
- Moving from Post-Secondary to Secondary Levels:
- You must apply for a new study permit if you wish to attend a secondary school after studying at a post-secondary institution.
- Switching Programs at the Same Post-Secondary DLI:
- You can continue studying at the same institution with your current study permit as long as you still meet the conditions of your permit.
- Changing DLIs at the Post-Secondary Level:
- A new study permit is required if you wish to transfer to a different DLI at the post-secondary level.
The Risks of Not Informing IRCC
Failing to report a change in schools could have serious consequences:
- Your previous school may mark you as not enrolled.
- You may breach the conditions of your study permit, leading to:
- Permit invalidation or cancellation.
- A requirement to leave Canada or change your status.
- Possible ineligibility for future study or work permits.
Conclusion
It is important to ensure you are knowledgeable concerning the conditions of your study permit as an international student and abide by those conditions for the best outcome of your study experience. With the increased work hours, students still need to maintain their full-time status and manage their work hours to ensure they are within the allowable limits to avoid serious consequences.
For guidance on your responsibilities as an international student, whether you’re changing schools, transitioning between levels of study, or navigating the process of applying for a new study permit, we’re here to help.
Schedule a personalized one-on-one consultation with our knowledgeable immigration consultants to ensure you understand and comply with these changes.
Our team will:
- Assess your unique situation.
- Guide you through the new application process.
- Help you stay compliant with Canada’s updated study permit regulations.
Contact us today to book your consultation and secure a seamless transition for your academic success in Canada.
The Team at Northern Connections Canada
