The cap aims to align with Canada's immigration objectives, as stated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Once the limit is reached, no additional applications will be accepted.
Certain applicants and scenarios are exempt from this cap. The new policy is part of Canada's efforts to refine its immigration process and ensure stricter compliance.
Canada's newly released Immigration Levels Plan anticipates the arrival of 305,900 international students annually from 2025 to 2027. Notably, this is the first time international student projections have been included in the plan.
This development comes after Immigration Minister Marc Miller implemented measures to limit international student numbers. Specifically, the minister reduced Study Permit issuances by 35% in 2024 and an additional 10% in 2025.
Exemptions to Study Permit Requirements in Canada
Certain individuals are exempt from specific study permit requirements in Canada.
These exemptions apply to:
- Students renewing their permits at the same institution and level of study
- Individuals with unenforceable removal orders and valid temporary resident permits
- Applicants with inland family sponsorship, protected persons, or those awaiting permanent residence
- Family members of exempt individuals
- Exchange students, primary/secondary school students, and those attending federally administered institutions
- Global Affairs Canada scholarship recipients and participants in the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot
- Individuals exempt due to crisis responses or temporary public policies, including Indigenous persons
Canada Updates Rules for International Student Transfers
As of November 8, 2024, international students in Canada must follow new procedures to transfer to a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI). According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), students must now apply for a study permit extension before switching schools.
This change replaces the previous notification-only process and demonstrates Canada's efforts to enhance compliance and accountability in its international education system. The updated rules emphasize the shared responsibility of students and institutions to adhere to regulations and maintain program integrity.
New Transfer Requirements for International Students in Canada
Starting November 8, 2024, international students transferring to a new Designated Learning Institution (DLI) must comply with the following:
- Study Permit Extension: Students must apply for a study permit extension before transferring schools.
- Eligible Institutions: The new institution must appear on the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) list and must not be on the suspension list.
- Documentation Requirements:Students must provide supporting documents, including:
- A letter explaining the reason for the transfer.
- Additional evidence demonstrating eligibility to begin studies at the new DLI while waiting for IRCC approval, if applicable.
Before transferring, students must confirm that their new institution meets the following criteria:
- The school is listed as an active DLI.
- It is not on the suspension list (institutions restricted from hosting international students).
For students enrolled in co-op programs, transferring to a co-op program at a new institution requires applying for a new co-op work permit.
2. Submitting the Study Permit Extension Application
Students must submit an application to IRCC to extend their study permit. The application must include:
- A letter explaining why they are transferring schools.
- Relevant documents that demonstrate eligibility for the new program or institution.
If a student’s study permit application is already in progress, they must update their information by submitting additional documents through the IRCC web form.
Commencing Studies at a New Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
International students can start studying at their new DLI only if they meet specific conditions:
1. They remain in Canada after receiving the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the new institution.
2. They continue to comply with the terms of their current study permit.
Additionally, the transfer must be due to exceptional circumstances affecting their previous institution, such as:
- Institutional closure
- Program or course discontinuation
- Suspension or loss of DLI designation
If these conditions are not met, students must wait for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to approve their new study permit extension before commencing studies at the new DLI.
Important Exception for Winter and Spring 2025 Transfers
International students transferring to a new Designated Learning Institution (DLI) for Winter or Spring 2025 can start classes before their study permit extension is approved, as long as they:
1. Have a valid current study permit.
2. Do not have their previous DLI listed on their study permit.
3. Continue to meet all existing study permit conditions.
4. Have submitted a study permit extension application.
Quebec Transfer Requirements
International students transferring to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Quebec must follow additional steps:
1. Obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) attestation.
2. Include the CAQ with their study permit extension application.
However, students transferring between vocational training centers within Quebec are exempt from applying for a new CAQ or study permit.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to comply with the new transfer process can have severe repercussions, including:
1. The previous institution reporting the student as unenrolled.
2. Breaching study permit conditions, potentially leading to permit cancellation or invalidation.
3. Facing removal from Canada or being ineligible for future study or work permits.
These consequences aim to ensure international students adhere to Canadian immigration regulations, maintaining the integrity of the program.
Canada's International Student Program Overhaul
The revised DLI transfer process is one aspect of a comprehensive reform of Canada's international education system in 2024. Other key changes include:
- Regional Caps on Study Permits: Regional limits have been introduced to manage student intake and reduce pressure on housing and infrastructure.
- Increased Financial Requirements: Students must now demonstrate higher financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
- Enhanced Oversight for DLIs: Institutions must meet stricter criteria to retain their DLI designation, including proof of adequate student support and quality education standards.
- Regular Compliance Checks: Audits and inspections ensure that students and institutions follow immigration rules.
- Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) Changes: Eligibility for PGWPs is now tied to specific programs and institutions.
These updates reflect Canada’s strategy to balance the benefits of international education with sustainable growth and student success.
The Importance of These Changes
Canada's growing international student population has put pressure on the immigration system and institutions. The updated DLI transfer process and other reforms aim to:
1. Enhance monitoring of institutions and students.
2. Prevent unauthorized study.
3. Ensure institutions provide high-quality education and meet regulatory standards.
By addressing vulnerabilities in the previous system, Canada reinforces its global reputation as a premier education destination while protecting the integrity of its programs.
Action Plan for International Students Transferring to a New DLI
To ensure a smooth transfer and compliance with regulations, follow these steps:
1. Verify the new institution's DLI status and ensure it's not suspended.
2. Apply for a study permit extension before transferring.
3. Submit required documents, including a transfer explanation letter.
4. Confirm eligibility to start studies at the new DLI while awaiting approval.
5. Wait until all requirements are met before beginning studies at the new institution.
By following these steps, international students can ensure a successful transfer and maintain compliance with Canadian immigration regulations.
FAQ on Canada’s Study Permit Application Cap
Why did Canada introduce a cap on Study Permit applications?
Canada implemented the cap to balance international student enrollment with national immigration objectives and alleviate strain on infrastructure.
The 2025 cap of 550,162 applications aims to manage student numbers while upholding Canada's high standards for education and living. This measure supports sustainable growth in Canada's international student program.
Who is Exempt from the Study Permit Cap?
Certain individuals are excluded from the Study Permit application cap, including:
- Students renewing their permit for the same institution and study level
- Exchange students
- Primary and secondary school applicants
- Those with specific immigration statuses or public policy exemptions
- Protected persons
- Family-sponsored candidates
- Participants in the Francophone Minority Communities Pilot
These groups are not subject to the application cap.
Consequences of Reaching the Study Permit Application Cap
If the 550,162 application limit is reached, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will stop accepting new Study Permit applications. To avoid delays, prospective students should:
- Apply early
- Ensure their application is complete and meets all requirements
Those who miss the opportunity may need to wait for future application periods or explore alternative options.
Impact on Students Transferring between Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
Students transferring to a new DLI must:
1. Apply for a study permit extension prior to the transfer.
2. Ensure the new DLI is actively listed and not suspended.
Meeting these requirements is crucial to maintain study status and avoid potential consequences, such as penalties or loss of status.
Are These Changes Part of a Larger Update?
Yes, the Study Permit cap is part of a comprehensive overhaul of Canada's international student program.
The goal is to:
- Manage international student enrollment
- Enhance compliance
- Improve program accountability
Additional updates include:
- Revised financial requirements
- Stricter oversight of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
- Changes to Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility
These changes aim to promote sustainable growth and success for international students in Canada.
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