CANADA TIGHTENS RULES
Immigration law
13 May
The majority of international students who wish to transfer schools must obtain a new study permit and wait for a decision on their application before doing so. Students must now plan well in advance, or risk being in violation of the conditions of their study permit.
The Canadian authorities have implemented multiple updated regulations for foreign students, such as limiting study permits and modifying off-campus work allowances.
In 2025, the issuance of study permits will be cut to 437,000, with this figure remaining steady into 2026. Foreign students may now work off-campus for up to 24 hours weekly during academic terms, while maintaining unrestricted work hours during approved school breaks. Furthermore, spouses of international students enrolled in master’s programs will only qualify for work permits if the program spans a minimum of 16 months.
The primary difficulty or disadvantages for foreign students is the steep tuition expenses. Whereas local Canadian students generally spend about $7,076 per year, international learners frequently encounter charges surpassing $35,000 annually, based on their course and school - which can be as much as five times the cost paid by domestic peers.
Foreign students in Canada are allowed to start studying at a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI) before their study permit extension is approved, as long as certain conditions are met regarding their former institution and current permit status. In particular, if their previous:
a. DLI has shut down b. Canceled the program c. Been suspended d. Lost its official designation
Students may begin their studies at the new DLI while waiting for a decision so long as they have stayed in Canada since receiving their new acceptance letter and continue to comply with the terms of their current study permit.
To change your course of study as an international student in Canada, you typically need to apply for a new study permit. This means applying for a new study permit with the updated program details and supporting documents.
Process to switch schools in Canada:
1. Secure a New Letter of Acceptance (LOA): Obtain an official LOA from your new Designated Learning Institution (DLI), detailing your updated program.
2. Prepare Supporting Documents: You must include:
a. Copies of applicable passports pages
b. Copies of your existing study permit or other immigration documents
c. Confirmation of admission from your new Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
d. Evidence of financial resources to support your stay in Canada
e. Records demonstrating your academic performance at previous institutions
3. Depending on your situation,
a. A medical exam
b. Possibly biometrics
4. Apply for a New Study Permit: Send your complete application package (IMM 5709) to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Once your application is reviewed by IRCC and approved, you will receive a new study permit reflecting the details of your updated program. After receiving approval, you must notify your new institution and complete any remaining steps to finalize your enrollment.
Following Key points to keep in mind - because forgetting them could turn your study dreams into a paperwork nightmare:
1. Timeline: Study permit processing times can differ, so it's important to apply early to avoid delays before your new program begins, according to CIC News. 2. Delayed Arrival: If you can not reach Canada by your program's start date, you might be eligible to defer your admission to the next intake. 3. Permit Conditions: Make sure you follow all study permit conditions, including staying enrolled full-time and respecting work-hour limits. 4. IRCC Account Update: Don't forget to update your IRCC online account with your new program and DLI information, if required.
Because of delays related to gathering necessary documents and the time it takes for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to process applications, students planning to switch schools are strongly advised to apply for a study permit extension as early as possible.
At a minimum, the extension request must be submitted no later than 30 days before the current permit expires. If you wrap up your program sooner than anticipated, your study permit will expire on either the date listed on the permit or 90 days after you officially complete your studies - whichever comes first. On the flip side, if you finish later than expected, you will need to apply for an extension at least 30 days before your permit’s original expiry date.
With a deep understanding of IRCC requirements and potential pitfalls the immigration lawyers at RRM Law can assist by providing personalized legal guidance throughout the entire process, including reviewing eligibility, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations, preparing and submitting study permit extension applications, and helping gather the necessary documentation and reduce the risk of application errors or delays.
Speak with an experienced Lawyer today (905) 798-3776.