A recent announcement by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in the Canadian Gazette has garnered attention for its potential impact on international students. One key proposal requires students to obtain a new study permit when switching to a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Currently, DLIs, which are approved to accept international students, operate under provincial jurisdiction and regulations. The federal government seeks to introduce new admissions regulations, but lacks direct oversight to ensure individual institutions comply. The proposed change aims to address this gap.
New Requirements for Switching Schools
RCC Proposes Two Key Changes for International Students Switching Schools:
1. New Study Permit Required: Students must apply for a new study permit before starting their new program at a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
2. Temporary Study Permit Exemption: Students can begin attending their new DLI without a valid study permit, as long as they:
– Remain in Canada
– Comply with all conditions of their current study permit
– Await a decision on their new study permit application.
How IRCC’s Proposal Affects International Students in Canada?
The IRCC’s proposal includes a comprehensive impact assessment, highlighting the costs and benefits for key stakeholders: international students and Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs).
International Students:
– Financial Cost: $150 per new application
– Time Investment: 30-45 minutes per application preparation
– Total Estimated Cost: $55.5 million PV over 10 periods
– Potential Disruption: Longer processing times and uncertainty may impact academic plans
DLIs:
– Compliance and Administrative Costs: $4.8 million PV over 10 periods
– LOA Verification Time:
– Initial: 3 minutes per application
– Ongoing: 30 seconds per application (as institutions become familiar with the process)
Will They Be Adopted?
While the future is uncertain, historical context can provide valuable insights. The current proposed changes to study permit requirements are in a 30-day consultation phase, ending July 29th, 2024. IRCC has a track record of consulting on policies aimed at enhancing the International Student Program, engaging with:
– Provincial and territorial ministries
– National education associations
– Individual DLIs
– Student representative organizations
Notably, many previously consulted policies have been adopted. For instance:
– LOA verification process enhancements, informed by feedback from provincial and territorial representatives and national education associations, were adopted on December 1st, 2023
This precedent suggests that IRCC considers stakeholder input and may adopt changes after careful consideration. The outcome of the current consultation will depend on the feedback received and IRCC’s subsequent policy decisions.
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