Recently, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) proposed amendments to Canada’s international student program, sparking considerable interest and debate. Among the proposed changes, one significant adjustment stands out: international students wishing to change their Designated Learning Institution (DLI) within Canada would now be required to apply for a new study permit.
What is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)?
DLIs are institutions in Canada approved by IRCC to admit international students. These institutions play a crucial role not only in educating international students but also in ensuring compliance with federal immigration regulations.
Proposed Changes by IRCC:
IRCC’s proposal suggests that:
- New Study Permit Application Requirement: If a student wishes to switch DLIs, they must submit a new study permit application before commencing their studies at the new institution.
- Interim Period Without a Study Permit: Students can start attending the new DLI without a valid study permit while their application is pending, provided they remain in Canada and adhere to all conditions of their current study permit.
Potential Impact on International Students:
The proposed changes have raised concerns among international students and stakeholders:
- Financial and Administrative Burden: Each new study permit application incurs a cost of $150 CAD, not to mention the time investment required for application preparation. IRCC estimates a significant financial impact totaling $55.5 million Present Value (PV) over 10 periods due to these new requirements.
- Uncertainty and Disruption: The administrative process of applying for a new study permit introduces uncertainty. Delays in processing times due to increased application volumes could disrupt students’ academic plans and cause undue stress.
Impact on DLIs:
DLIs will also face challenges:
- Compliance Costs: Verifying Letters of Acceptance (LOAs), which are integral to the new study permit application process, will impose additional administrative costs. IRCC estimates these costs at $4.8 million PV over 10 periods.
- Operational Adjustments: Initially, institutions may experience longer processing times as they adapt to the new LOA verification requirements. However, efficiencies are expected to improve over time as institutions become more familiar with the process.
Consultation and Adoption:
IRCC’s proposed changes are currently in a 30-day consultation phase, ending July 29, 2024. This consultation involves provincial and territorial ministries, national education associations, DLIs, and student representative organizations. Feedback from these stakeholders will influence IRCC’s decision on whether and how to proceed with the amendments.
Historically, IRCC has adopted policies following consultations with stakeholders, aiming to enhance the International Student Program’s effectiveness and compliance with immigration regulations. For instance, previous consultations led to successful adoption of measures like the LOA verification process.
The proposed amendments by IRCC regarding study permit requirements for international students changing DLIs represent a significant potential shift in how student mobility within Canada is managed. While aimed at ensuring compliance and integrity in the international student program, these changes also introduce financial and administrative burdens for students and institutions alike.
As the consultation phase continues, stakeholders—including students, DLIs, and advocacy groups—have a vital role in shaping the final policy. Their feedback will inform IRCC’s decision-making process, ultimately determining the extent to which these proposed changes are implemented.
In navigating these developments, staying informed and actively participating in the consultation process will be crucial for all parties involved in Canada’s vibrant international education sector.
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