Canada has introduced changes to its International Student Program to address issues like misuse, fraud, and student safety while improving program effectiveness. These changes combat fraud by cracking down on fake acceptance letters and requiring stricter compliance reporting from designated learning institutions (DLIs). The government now monitors student enrollment more closely and verifies institutional accountability to protect students and ensure program integrity. Additional measures, including expanded off-campus work hours and clearer rules for transferring institutions, give students opportunities to balance academics and finances.
Increased Work Opportunities for Students
One significant adjustment is the change in the number of hours international students can work while their classes are ongoing.
- Previous Limit: Students were restricted to working 20 hours per week during academic terms.
- New Limit: The allowance has increased to 24 hours per week, granting students greater flexibility to manage their financial needs.
Additionally, students remain eligible to work full-time during scheduled academic breaks, such as summer or winter holidays.
These measurements emphasize both opportunity and accountability, ensuring a balanced approach to education and work. To work off-campus without a separate work permit, students must meet specific eligibility criteria: they must be enrolled full-time in a program of at least six months’ duration that leads to a recognized degree, diploma, or certificate. While academic terms are in session, students can work within the permitted hours, and during scheduled breaks like summer or winter vacations, they are allowed to work full-time. However, maintaining compliance is important, students must remain enrolled at their designated institutions, as failure to do so can result in enforcement actions for violating study permit conditions.
Revised Policies for Changing Institutions
International students who wish to transfer to a different designated learning institution (DLI) must now go through a formal application process.
- Students must apply for and receive approval for a new study permit before they are allowed to transfer.
- This measure ensures compliance with immigration rules and discourages unauthorized transfers between institutions.
Responsibilities of DLIs
Designated Learning Institutions are pivotal in the success of the International Student Program. To improve accountability, stricter measures are now in place to monitor compliance and verify student information.
| Previous Approach | New Approach |
| Reporting by DLIs occurred inconsistently. | DLIs must submit reports twice annually, verifying enrollment and student compliance. |
| Minimal consequences for non-compliance. | DLIs that fail to comply may face up to a one-year suspension from enrolling new students. |
These reports ensure that students holding study permits remain enrolled in their programs. Quebec-based DLIs are in the process of aligning with Canada’s compliance reporting system, with a grace period granted for this integration. These changes not only benefit students by enhancing financial flexibility and simplifying processes for transferring institutions but also protect them from fraud and exploitation. At the same time, institutions are held accountable through mandatory reporting, fostering closer collaboration with IRCC to ensure program integrity and success for all stakeholders.
Success of the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) Verification System
The implementation of the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) verification system, introduced on December 1, 2023, marks a significant step in strengthening the integrity of Canada’s International Student Program. This system has been instrumental in reducing fraudulent applications by validating acceptance letters directly with designated learning institutions. By identifying discrepancies, such as fraudulent or revoked letters, the process ensures that study permits are issued only to eligible students.
Key Outcomes of the LOA Verification System (Dec 2023 – Oct 2024):
- Total LOAs Received: 529,000
- Valid LOAs Confirmed with DLIs: 492,000
- Invalid or Canceled LOAs Identified: 17,000+
By increasing work hours, tightening transfer regulations, and implementing stricter compliance measures, the government ensures a balanced approach to education and work opportunities. These reforms not only safeguard students from fraud but also promote accountability among institutions, fostering a positive and successful experience for international students in Canada.
