It has been learned from border inspection authorities that the Canadian government recently announced new regulations for international students that will be officially implemented starting June 1 of this year. These include significant changes that differ drastically from existing regulations, directly affecting the lives and studies of international students in Canada.
There are four important changes in the new Canadian study abroad regulations compared to current laws:
1. Only designated institutions are authorized to issue student visas: Study visas will only be issued to successful applicants enrolled at designated educational institutions qualified to accept international students. Under current regulations, any educational institution can do so.
2. Study visa holders are not required to apply for a separate work permit: A study permit will automatically authorize holders to work up to 20 hours per week off-campus without the need to apply for a separate work permit. The permit holder must be engaged in full-time studies aimed at obtaining a degree, diploma, or certificate at a designated educational institution for a duration of more than six months. Under current regulations, international students must apply for a separate work permit to be eligible for employment.
3. Certain visitors may apply for a study permit: Visitors (in the country on a visitor visa) may apply for a study permit while in Canada. This includes elementary, middle, and high school students, as well as exchange and visiting students, and individuals waiting to start a position after completing a program at an academic institution. Current regulations do not permit this.
4. Eligible international students are permitted to work full-time during the waiting period after graduation before their post-graduation work permit is issued. Current regulations do not allow this, as students are only permitted to work once the post-graduation work permit has been approved.
