Book an Appointment
As of May 1, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially ended the temporary relief measures that previously allowed international students to transfer between Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) without first obtaining a new study permit. This change marks a significant shift in Canada's approach to managing international student mobility and compliance.
What Changed?
Prior to November 8, 2024, international students in Canada could switch DLIs by simply updating their information online with IRCC, provided they met all conditions of their existing study permit. This process was straightforward and allowed for greater flexibility in academic planning.
However, starting November 8, 2024, IRCC introduced stricter regulations requiring most international students to apply for and obtain a new study permit before transferring to a different DLI. To ease the transition, IRCC implemented interim measures from November 8, 2024, to May 1, 2025, permitting certain students to begin studies at a new DLI while their study permit extension was being processed. These interim provisions have now expired, and students must wait for approval of their new study permit before transferring institutions.
Who Is Affected?
The new regulations primarily impact post-secondary international students in Canada. Under the updated rules:
• Transferring Between Post-Secondary DLIs: Students must apply for a new study permit before enrolling at a different post-secondary institution.
• Changing Programs at the Same DLI: Generally, a new study permit is not required if the student remains at the same institution, but a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) may be necessary for extensions.
• Transitions Between Education Levels: Students moving from secondary to post-secondary education, or vice versa, must apply for a new study permit to reflect the change in their level of study.These changes aim to enhance compliance and accountability within Canada’s international student program, ensuring students remain aligned with immigration goals.
What You Need to Do
If you're planning to transfer to a new DLI:Apply for a New Study Permit: Submit an application for a new study permit before enrolling at the new institution.
1. Prepare Required Documents: Ensure you have the necessary documentation, including:
o A valid passport
o Current study permit
o Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the new DLI
o Proof of financial support
2. Wait for Approval: Do not commence studies at the new institution until your new study permit has been approved.
Failing to adhere to these steps may result in non-compliance with study permit conditions, potentially affecting your legal status in Canada.
Broader Context
These regulatory changes are part of Canada's broader efforts to manage the influx of international students and temporary residents. In 2025, the Canadian government announced a reduction in international study permits, setting the total cap at 437,000 permits—a 10% decrease from 2024. This move aims to alleviate strain on housing, healthcare, and other essential services.
Additionally, the government plans to reduce the proportion of temporary residents to 5% of the total population over the next three years, down from 6.8% in April 2024. These measures reflect a shift towards more sustainable immigration levels and a focus on long-term integration of newcomers into Canadian society.
Source :- https://immigrationnewscanada.ca/international-students-relief-canada-ends/
