Canada announced changes to protect international students
Posted by: Abhishek Rai
28 October 2023 11:05 AM
Canada has always been a top choice for international students due to its excellent education, diverse society, and opportunities for post-graduation work and immigration.
However, students need help navigating the International Student Program. The Canadian government has recently announced new measures to strengthen the International Student Program and better protect genuine international students from fraud.
Enhanced Verification Process
Starting December 1, 2023, post-secondary institutions must verify every applicant's acceptance letter with IRCC. This step aims to prevent acceptance letter fraud and help students avoid problems caused by fraudulent investigations. It ensures that study permits are granted only to those with genuine acceptance letters.
Recognized Institutions
By the fall semester of 2024, IRCC will implement a "recognized institution" framework. This benefits post-secondary institutions that offer superior services, support, and outcomes to international students. Priority processing of study permits will be given to applicants planning to attend these schools.
Reforming Post-Graduation Work Permits
In the coming months, IRCC will review the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program criteria. The goal is to align it with the needs of the Canadian job market and regional and Francophone immigration objectives.
The government values the contributions of international students to Canada's social, cultural, and economic fabric. To safeguard these benefits, measures are being taken against those who exploit genuine students for financial gain. By promptly identifying fraudulent acceptance letters, the government aims to support institutions prioritizing international students. This will streamline their application processing. Ultimately, it will help Canada select and retain students who best meet the country's economic and immigration needs.
These changes are the initial steps in improving the International Student Program, aligning with the broader engagement initiative, "An Immigration System for Canada's Future." The government is working closely with educational institutions, provinces, territories, and organizations representing colleges and universities to combat fraud and maintain the integrity of immigration programs.
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