Key Changes to Canada's International Student Policies in 2024
Canada continues to adapt its immigration and education policies to ensure fairness, integrity, and quality experiences for international students. Let’s explore the latest updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) affecting international students and Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) across the country.
1. Increased Off-Campus Work Limit
International students can now work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic sessions. This is going to balance between gaining valuable work experience and focusing on education.
To work off-campus without a work permit, students must meet specific criteria:
- Be enrolled full-time in a post-secondary academic, vocational, or professional training program.
- Be part of a vocational training program at the secondary level in Quebec, lasting at least six months and leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate.
This policy offers more flexibility for students to manage living expenses while prioritizing their studies.
2. New Institution Change Requirements
Switching institutions has become more regulated. Students must now apply for and receive approval for a new study permit before transferring to another institution.
This change improves program oversight and ensures students follow the proper legal process, reducing risks of fraud or unapproved transitions between institutions.
3. Compliance Requirements for Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)
DLIs now have enhanced compliance responsibilities to submite compliance reports twice a year.
Institutions failing to meet these requirements may face strict penalties, including suspension from enrolling new international students for up to one year. This ensures accountability and improves the quality of academic programs for international learners.
4. Quebec-Specific Adjustments
For DLIs in Quebec, there’s a transitional grace period for implementing compliance reporting. During this time, DLIs will collaborate with IRCC to ensure the smooth adoption of these new measures.
Why These Changes Matter
These updates aim to:
- Protect students from fraud and misuse.
- Strengthen the integrity of Canada’s education and immigration systems.
- Enhance the overall experience for international students.
As Minister Marc Miller highlighted, the adjustments allow students to access meaningful work opportunities while ensuring their studies remain a priority.