Dear Mr Brown,

I want to know whether I am able to change schools after I started the programme a year ago. I wish to switch schools and programmes, however, it would be the same province of Ontario.

– KE

Dear KE:

The Government of Canada has introduced noteworthy updates to student visa regulations for 2024 which affect transfers to new schools and even changing programmes:

College and university transfer restrictions

An international student will have to apply for a new study permit to be able to change their college or university after arriving in Canada. This is a major change, as traditionally students have been able to change school so long as it is reported to the IRCC.

Direct reporting to IRCC

In the past, colleges and universities reported to their respective provincial governments. However, under the new regulations they are required to report directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which is at the federal level. This change aims to streamline the process and improve oversight of educational institutions.

New study application requirements

An international student must obtain a new study permit in order to change a programme. This requirement helps IRCC keep track of students’ educational activities and ensure compliance with visa conditions.

Enrolment and status tracking

Institutions are now required to report the enrolment status of their students directly to IRCC; this includes providing information on whether students are attending classes and progressing in their studies. This measure allows IRCC to monitor students more effectively and take necessary actions if required.

In summary, the new regulations are imposed to ensure that an international student is pursuing the programme that was approved for the permit. Moreover, the status of the student will be monitored and reported directly to the federal government. These changes aim to create a more transparent system for international students. By ensuring that students remain in their original institutions, the Canadian Government can better manage the educational sector and maintain high standards.

Please visit JAMAICA2CANADA.COM for additional information on Canadian work permits, study permits, visas, permanent residence and/or appeals, etc.

Antonn Brown, BA, (Hons), LLB, MSc, RCIC, is a licensed Canadian employment recruiter, accredited Canadian education agent and immigration counsel of JAMAICA2CANADA.COM—a Canadian immigration firm in Kingston. Send questions/comments to documents.jamaica2canada@gmail.com