Enhancements to the International Student Program for Student Protection
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Introduction to New Measures
Canada remains a preferred choice for international students due to its esteemed educational institutions, welcoming culture, and opportunities for work and permanent residency post-graduation. Although international students enrich Canadian campuses, they often face hurdles within the International Student Program.
On October 27, 2023, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, unveiled strategies to fortify the International Student Program. These initiatives are designed to safeguard genuine students from fraud and include:
- Starting December 1, 2023, designated learning institutions (DLIs) must verify each applicant’s letter of acceptance directly with IRCC. This process aims to combat letter-of-acceptance fraud and ensure study permits are granted based on authentic documentation.
- By fall 2024, a “recognized institution” framework will be implemented, aiding DLIs that provide superior services and support to international students. These institutions will benefit from prioritized processing of study permits.
- In the coming months, IRCC will evaluate and reform the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program to align it with Canada’s labor market needs and immigration goals.
These actions target fraudulent practices, promoting the integrity of the International Student Program. Recognizing institutions that support international students will expedite their applicants’ processing, aiding Canada’s economic and immigration objectives. This initiative is part of the broader review of the International Student Program and the engagement initiative, An Immigration System for Canada’s Future.
Official Statement
“International students are talented, bright and deserving of a positive experience as they pursue their studies in Canada. We will continue to improve Canada’s International Student Program by protecting students and weeding out those who try to take advantage of them. Whether an international student stays and works after graduation or returns home, we want their time as a student in Canada to have been beneficial to their growth and aspirations.” – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Insights
- International education generates over $22 billion annually, surpassing exports of auto parts, lumber, or aircraft, and supports over 200,000 jobs in Canada. The 2020 dip in international students caused a $7 billion GDP loss.
- Education in Canada is managed by the 10 provinces and 3 territories.
- Following fraudulent admissions letter investigations in June, an IRCC taskforce collaborated with CBSA to review affected students’ cases.
- By October 12, 2023, 103 cases were reviewed, identifying 63 as genuine students.
- The Genuine Students Impacted by Fraud Taskforce is considering additional cases pending decisions from the Immigration and Refugee Board.
- On June 23, 2023, CBSA announced charges against Brijesh Mishra for immigration offences, identified as a key figure in student fraud.
Related Resources
- Study in Canada as an international student
- Find out if your representative is authorized
- How to report fraud or abuse
Contact Information
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
What changes are being made to the International Student Program?
Starting December 1, 2023, DLIs must verify acceptance letters with IRCC. By fall 2024, a new framework will prioritize study permit processing for recognized institutions.
How does the new framework benefit international students?
Institutions providing excellent services and support will have their applications processed faster, ensuring genuine students have a smoother experience.
What has been done to address fraudulent cases?
An IRCC taskforce, in collaboration with CBSA, has reviewed cases of fraud, ensuring genuine students are protected and fraudulent activities minimized.
How significant is the economic impact of international students in Canada?
International education contributes over $22 billion annually to Canada’s economy, supporting more than 200,000 jobs.
Who manages education in Canada?
The 10 provinces and 3 territories oversee education’s organization, delivery, and assessment in Canada.
