Here are the answers to some common FAQs regarding IRCC’s recent study permit changes. The immigration department introduced effective changes to the International Student Program. On January 22, 2024, IRCC implemented a cap on the study permit approvals for this year. Further, it imposed the requirement of a provincial attestation letter for those applying for a study permit.
These recent announcements came as a surprise to all international students, and they have been wondering about a lot of things. The questions are related to the execution process of these changes and their effect on their chances of getting a study permit. Therefore, this blog will answer a maximum number of common queries about Canadian education.
Common FAQs regarding IRCC’s recent study permit changes – When will IRCC implement these changes?
IRCC began to execute these changes on January 22 this year, including the attestation letter policy and the study permit cap. The rest of 2024 will witness only 360,000 new study permit approvals. However, you might face uncertainty about the process of provincial or territorial governments to issue attestation letters. This is because the department has yet to complete the process. The Canadian provinces or territories have time until March 31, 2024, to begin this process.
Will the changes affect me if I plan to be in Canada shortly and have an attestation letter?
The International Student Program’s changes will apply to all those who could not submit their application before January 22 this year. Furthermore, if you have attained a Letter of Acceptance for pursuing education at a Designated Learning Institution but have not applied before January 22, you will be subject to these new changes.
Common FAQs regarding IRCC’s recent study permit changes – Should I wait to submit a study application until March 31?
As of now, it is uncertain whether an international student must wait until March 31 to submit their study permit applications. Canadian provinces and territories are responsible for establishing a process for issuing attestation letters to international students. If a provincial or territorial government can successfully create a framework before the deadline, international students might begin their study permit application process shortly.
Is it possible that specific study permit applications after January 22 will be exempt from the new limitation process?
IRCC states that specific study permit applications will not be applicable for these recent changes. These are as follows:
- Minor children submit applications for primary or secondary school education. This means children applying for kindergarten to grade 12.
- Students submitting applications to attend PhD, master’s, or another post-graduation program.
- Those students who would like to apply for the extension or renewal of their study permits.
Will it be mandatory for me to submit IRCC’s approval if I seek to change my educational institution in 2024?
Presently, the process for international students remains uncertain if they seek to change their DLIs this year. IRCC will inform everyone with relevant details as the year gradually progresses.
Are the recent changes permanent for the International Student Program?
According to the January 22 revelation, the limitation on study permit approvals and the attestation letter requirement are temporary measures. These temporary initiatives will remain valid until the next two years. Additionally, toward the end of 2024, IRCC will again determine the limitation on international students for the next year (2025).
Do you have any queries on the Canadian study permit process? Get in touch with our immigration representatives at MakeHomeCanada by writing to us at [email protected].
