Canada’s New Study Permit Rule: International Students Must Reapply
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Those planning to switch to a different college or university (Designated Learning Institution or DLI) must now apply for a new study permit before making the change.
This update marks a significant departure from the previous process that allowed international students to simply update their DLI through their IRCC online account. The new policy, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aims to reinforce academic oversight and ensure students remain aligned with immigration regulations.
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| Canada makes new study permit mandatory for international students |
What’s Changing?
Old Process (Pre-November 2024):
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Students could transfer to a new DLI by updating their IRCC account online.
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No need to apply for a new permit as long as the student maintained status and study conditions.
New Process (Effective May 1, 2025):
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Students must submit a new study permit application when changing their post-secondary institution.
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The permit must be approved before beginning studies at the new DLI.
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This rule applies to all post-secondary students, including those in universities, colleges, and technical institutes.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Students who fail to follow the new procedure and switch schools without applying for a new study permit risk:
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Cancellation of their current study permit
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Ineligibility for future study or work permits in Canada
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Deportation or removal orders in serious cases of non-compliance
IRCC emphasizes that maintaining legal status and adhering to study conditions is mandatory throughout the student’s time in Canada.
Grace Period That Has Now Ended
A temporary relaxation was in place for students transitioning during the Winter and Spring 2025 semesters (January 1 – May 1, 2025). During this window, students could begin studying at a new DLI while their new study permit application was still processing, provided they met all the following conditions:
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Had a valid letter of acceptance from the new DLI.
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Submitted an application to extend their study permit.
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Held a valid study permit that didn’t specify the DLI name.
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Continued to meet all conditions of their current permit.
This grace period expired on May 1, 2025. Any new transfers after this date must follow the full application process.
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your DLI the Right Way (2025 Update)
If you're an international student planning to switch schools in Canada:
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Obtain a Letter of Acceptance from your new DLI.
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Gather all necessary documents, including:
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Proof of funds
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Academic records
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Explanation letter for your transfer
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DLI Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL), if required
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Apply to extend your study permit via the IRCC portal (form IMM 5709).
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Wait for approval before beginning studies at the new institution.
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Maintain your current enrollment and legal status during the transition.
Why This Change Matters
Canada has become one of the most popular destinations for international students, with over 1 million active study permits as of 2024. However, IRCC has faced challenges in regulating institutional transfers, preventing fraud, and maintaining accurate immigration records. This policy aims to:
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Prevent students from switching to unregulated or non-accredited institutions.
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Improve the tracking of students across DLIs.
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Strengthen the integrity of the international education system.
Final Thoughts
International students contribute significantly to Canada’s cultural and economic fabric. This updated policy underscores the need for transparency, planning, and compliance with immigration rules.
If you’re planning to transfer to a new school, start your application early and stay informed via the official IRCC website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I still change my school in Canada as an international student?
Yes, but you must apply for a new study permit before you transfer to another post-secondary DLI.
Do I need to leave Canada to apply for a new study permit?
No. You can apply for a permit extension from within Canada using IRCC’s online portal.
What happens if I transfer schools without getting a new permit?
Your current permit could be cancelled, and you may be barred from future studies or work in Canada.
How long does it take to get a new study permit approved?
Processing times vary, but IRCC advises applying at least 30 days before your current permit expires.
Does this apply to high school students?
No. This change primarily affects post-secondary students (colleges, universities, vocational institutions).
What is a DLI?
A DLI, or Designated Learning Institution, is a school approved by a Canadian province or territory to host international students.
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