Canada Tightens Rules For International Students Transferring Schools

Starting November 2024, international students in Canada will face stricter rules when transferring to a new school. They will now need to apply for and receive a new study permit before they can transfer, which will change how students plan their studies and transfers.

What’s Changing for International Students?

Before November 2024, students could easily switch schools by notifying the government. They didn’t need a new study permit. They just updated their information online with the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). But from November 2024 onwards, most students will need to apply for a new study permit before transferring to a new Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

This change means students will have to plan ahead. They must apply for the new study permit and wait for approval before switching schools. If they don't, they may violate their current study permit's conditions. Some students with special circumstances may still transfer before their new permit is approved, but these cases are exceptions.

What Documents Are Needed?

Students who need a new study permit must submit several documents, including:

• Application form (IMM 5709)
  
• Photocopies of passport pages
  
• Proof of acceptance at a new DLI
  
• Financial support proof
  
• Proof of good academic standing
  

Additionally, if they are changing schools, they need to explain their reason for doing so and include an updated Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL or TAL), unless they qualify for an exception.

Scenarios Where You Need a New Study Permit

Different situations will require students to apply for a new study permit:

1. Post-Secondary School Transfers: If you’re changing schools at the post-secondary level, you must apply for a new study permit.
   
2. Primary or Secondary School: If you’re moving from primary to secondary school or changing schools within the same level, you don’t need a new study permit unless there are conditions attached to your permit.
   
3. From Secondary to Post-Secondary: You’ll need a new study permit to attend post-secondary after secondary school.
   
4. Early Graduation: If you finish your secondary school early, your permit will expire 90 days after completion, even if it says otherwise on the permit.
   

How to Apply for a Study Permit Extension

Students must apply for an extension at least 30 days before their current study permit expires. However, if you finish your studies earlier than expected, your study permit will expire on whichever comes first—either the expiry date on your permit or 90 days after completing your studies.

To extend your permit, you must submit your application before your current permit expires. You can continue studying while your application is being processed as long as you stay in Canada and don’t leave.

Special Exceptions for Some Students

There are some exceptions. Students may transfer and start studying at their new DLI before their new study permit is approved if they meet these conditions:

1. They have stayed in Canada after receiving their acceptance letter from the new school.
   
2. They still meet all conditions of their current study permit.
   
3. The previous school closed, discontinued their program, or lost its DLI status.
   

These changes will affect most international students looking to transfer schools in Canada. Students must plan ahead and apply for their study permit extension early to avoid complications. The rules may seem strict, but they are in place to ensure that students follow the correct procedures when changing schools.