New Regulations for International Students in Canada

New rules have been announced for international students looking to study in Canada. Applicants for a permit to study must now show evidence that they have been accepted for a particular course.  Previously it was sufficient simply to state that you intended to study in the country.  The permit will only be provided for institutions that have been accredited to accept international students.

The study permit will become invalid 90 days after the completion of the course unless the student possesses a valid work permit or other authorisation enabling them to stay in the country.

A positive new development, however, is the opportunity to apply for courses by individuals who are in Canada on a visitor visa. They must, however, be at the pre-school, primary or secondary level. Individuals who are on an academic exchange or are visiting students at a designated learning institution can also apply for study permits.

Another welcome relaxation in the study permit rules will enable international students to work off-campus without having to apply for special work permit.  Eligible international graduates will also be allowed to work full-time after completion of their studies until a decision is made on their application for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. Previously, graduates were not permitted to work during this period.

The new regulations come into effect from June 1, 2014