November 26, 2024
Key Changes to Canada’s Immigration Rules for International Students: What You Need to Know
On November 8, 2024, the Government of Canada implemented significant amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) concerning international students. These changes, published in the Canada Gazette on November 20, 2024, aim to enhance the integrity of Canada’s international education system and provide clearer guidelines for students and educational institutions
Key Amendments:
- Work Hours During Academic Sessions:
- International students are now permitted to work up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions. Previously, the limit was 20 hours per week. This adjustment offers students greater flexibility to support themselves financially while studying.
- Authorization to Study While Awaiting New Permit:
- Students who have applied for a new study permit can continue their studies at the designated learning institution (DLI) named in their application until a decision is made, provided they:
- Have remained in Canada since receiving their letter of acceptance from the DLI.
- Comply with the conditions of their previous study permit, except for remaining enrolled at the DLI named in that permit.
- Experienced a situation where their previous DLI closed, discontinued their program, was suspended, or lost its designated status before they completed their course or program.
- Processing of Study Permit Applications:
- Applications naming a post-secondary DLI that has not provided the required confirmation to the Minister will be returned to the applicant without processing. This measure ensures that only institutions meeting specific standards host international students.
- Acceptance Requirements for Study Permits:
- Applicants must have been accepted into a course or program at a DLI. For post-secondary institutions, the DLI must have provided the necessary confirmation to the Minister, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Implications for International Students and Institutions:
- For Students:
- The increase in permissible work hours during academic sessions provides additional opportunities to gain work experience and financial support.
- The ability to continue studies while awaiting a new permit offers stability, especially if their institution faces unforeseen challenges.
- For Educational Institutions:
- DLIs must ensure timely submission of required confirmations to the Minister to facilitate the processing of study permits for prospective students.
- Maintaining compliance with designation requirements is crucial to continue hosting international students.
These amendments reflect Canada’s commitment to supporting international students while upholding the quality and integrity of its education system. Students and institutions are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance and take full advantage of the new provisions.
For detailed information, refer to the official publication in the Canada Gazette
Michael Daniele
Michael Jordan Daniele attended Humber College where he received a Diploma in Business Administration – majoring in accounting. He is currently attending George Brown, through continuing education courses to complete his diploma in Human Resources Management and ultimately obtain his certification as a CHRP Certified Human Resources Professional.
He joined BLG PC in May 2017 and has since undertaken various roles at the firm. Presently, he is tasked with being the Manager of the Communication and Legal Research Department, where he is managing the strategic direction of the firm in the areas of communication, legal writing and research, and overseeing the firm's operational advancement and efficiency. He assists in ensuring BLG PC remains at the forefront of external and internal communications with stakeholders, clients and staff as well as ensuring we build the strongest and most effective team possible.
As the descendant of immigrants himself, he has attained firsthand accounts of the challenges and obstacles of the immigration process, and hopes to assist those looking to relocate to Canada by making their transition as smooth as possible.