{"id":8197,"date":"2024-11-19T19:24:17","date_gmt":"2024-11-19T19:24:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/altecglobal.wpenginepowered.com\/altec-news-canada-implements-new-international-student-program-rules\/"},"modified":"2024-11-19T19:24:17","modified_gmt":"2024-11-19T19:24:17","slug":"altec-news-canada-implements-new-international-student-program-rules","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cicvisa.com\/zh\/altec-news-canada-implements-new-international-student-program-rules\/","title":{"rendered":"Altec News | Canada Implements New International Student Program Rules"},"content":{"rendered":"\"\"\n

November 15, 2024<\/strong>\u00a0marked a significant shift in Canada\u2019s approach to the International Student Program (ISP). As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen the integrity of the immigration system, protect international students, and address concerns surrounding affordability and housing, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced new regulations that impact international students and Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs).<\/span><\/p>\n

These changes aim to create a balanced, transparent, and sustainable framework for international students while aligning with Canada\u2019s long-term economic and immigration goals.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Key Updates to the International Student Program<\/span><\/h3>\n

1.\u00a0Increased Off-Campus Work Hours for International Students<\/span><\/h3>\n

Eligible international students can now work up to\u00a024 hours per week off campus<\/strong>\u00a0during academic terms. This change replaces the pre-pandemic 20-hour limit and provides students with additional opportunities to earn income while maintaining their focus on education. Students can continue to work\u00a0full-time during academic breaks<\/strong>, such as summer or winter holidays.<\/span><\/p>\n

Minister of Immigration Marc Miller highlighted the importance of this adjustment, stating, \u201cBy fixing the off-campus work limit to 24 hours per week, we\u2019re striking the right balance between providing work opportunities and helping students stay focused on their education.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n

2.\u00a0New Rules for Changing Learning Institutions<\/span><\/h3>\n

International students must now apply for and be approved for a\u00a0new study permit<\/strong>\u00a0before transferring to a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Previously, students could switch institutions by updating their IRCC online accounts. This measure is designed to enhance oversight and ensure compliance with study permit conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Stronger Oversight for Designated Learning Institutions<\/span><\/h3>\n

To maintain the integrity of the ISP, IRCC is increasing scrutiny of DLIs\u2014schools approved to host international students. Institutions must submit\u00a0compliance reports twice a year<\/strong>, confirming whether study permit holders are actively enrolled. DLIs that fail to meet these requirements may face\u00a0suspension from admitting new international students for up to one year<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Additionally, IRCC\u2019s\u00a0letter of acceptance (LOA) verification process<\/strong>\u00a0continues to be a key tool in combating fraud. Since its introduction in December 2023, nearly\u00a0529,000 LOAs<\/strong>\u00a0have been verified, with\u00a017,000 flagged as invalid or cancelled<\/strong>\u00a0by DLIs before study permit applications were submitted.<\/span><\/p>\n

While DLIs in most provinces are already participating in compliance reporting, institutions in Quebec have been granted a grace period to establish the necessary systems.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Why These Changes Are Happening<\/span><\/h3>\n

Canada\u2019s\u00a02025\u20132027 Immigration Levels Plan<\/strong>\u00a0aims to reduce the temporary resident population over the next few years, aligning with long-term economic and social objectives. The recent regulatory updates are part of broader measures to manage immigration levels amid growing concerns about\u00a0housing shortages and affordability<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

The government is also working to mitigate vulnerabilities international students face, including fraud and exploitation<\/strong>\u00a0while ensuring their academic success and well-being. \u201cInternational students should have a positive, successful experience in Canada,\u201d said Minister Miller.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Implications for International Students<\/span><\/h3>\n
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    Work Opportunities<\/strong>: The new off-campus work limit provides students with greater earning potential during school terms, while maintaining opportunities for full-time work during breaks.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n \t

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    Transparency for Transfers<\/strong>: The requirement to apply for a new study permit when transferring DLIs ensures better monitoring and compliance with immigration rules.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n \t

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    Enhanced Protection<\/strong>: IRCC\u2019s oversight of DLIs and LOA verification processes aims to protect students from fraudulent institutions and strengthen the system\u2019s integrity.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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    Planning Your Future in Canada<\/span><\/h3>\n

    These changes underline the importance of staying informed about immigration policies and ensuring compliance with study permit conditions. If you\u2019re planning to study in Canada or are already an international student, consider the following steps:<\/span><\/p>\n\n