Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a series of important changes to the country's international student program. These proposed regulations, posted on 20th June for a 30-day review period, are set to introduce a new compliance reporting system for post-secondary institutions. This shift aims to enhance the oversight and accountability of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) across Canada. Let’s look into the details.
Key Changes and Impact
- New Compliance Reporting Requirements: The Canadian government plans to implement a stringent compliance reporting system. Institutions will need to meet higher standards and obligations set by both federal and provincial authorities. This move will ensure greater transparency and reliability in the management of international students' enrollment to study in Canada.
- Authority to Suspend Non-Compliant Institutions: Under the new rules, IRCC will have the power to suspend the processing of study permits for institutions that do not comply with the new regulations. This means that non-compliant institutions will be unable to enroll international students until they meet the required standards.
- Mandatory Study Permit Applications for Transfers: Students will be required to file a new study permit application when transferring to another institution within Canada. This change allows IRCC to track and assess student compliance more accurately throughout their stay in Canada.
- Increased Off-Campus Work Hours: The proposed regulations will raise the off-campus work hour limit for international students from 20 to 24 hours per week. This increase provides students with more flexibility to support themselves financially while studying.
Implications for Institutions
These proposed changes highlight a significant shift in how DLIs are managed and overseen. While provinces and territories will still designate these institutions, IRCC will take on a greater role in ensuring compliance and addressing issues related to program integrity.
- Improved Reporting and Verification: Currently, IRCC lacks the regulatory authority to compel DLIs to report compliance. The new regulations will change this, enabling IRCC to verify student attendance and compliance effectively, thereby reducing the risk of fraudulent activities.
- Sanctioning Non-Compliant Institutions: The new rules will allow IRCC to impose conditions, including suspending study permit processing for non-compliant DLIs. This step is crucial for maintaining high standards and ensuring that only compliant institutions can enroll international students.
- Tracking Student Transfers: Students changing institutions will now need to notify IRCC and apply for a new study permit. This requirement will help IRCC ensure that students comply with their study permits and maintain accurate records.
Mandatory Reporting and Enhanced Verification
The proposed regulations will require DLIs to submit biannual compliance reports. These reports will enable IRCC to respond to integrity challenges and address unethical behaviors. Additionally, the enhanced letter of acceptance verification system will allow IRCC to verify each letter submitted with study permit applications before processing, closing existing compliance gaps.
For International recruiters, these changes mean a need for greater attention to compliance and proactive communication with both institutions and students. Ensuring that partner institutions meet the new standards will be critical for maintaining their ability to enroll students from around the globe. All the above steps by IRCC are targeted to enhance the integrity of Canada’s international student program, ensuring that both the academic and personal welfare of students are protected.
KC Overseas Education aims to support partner institutions, recruitment partners and study-abroad aspirants through this transition. Let’s join forces to deliver the best services to aspiring students and succeed together in this ever-evolving field!