There’s important news for Indian students planning to study in Canada. The Canadian government has changed the study visa rules for international students.
Now, if a student wants to switch their college or university in Canada, they must get a new study permit.
What was the earlier rule?
Earlier, students only needed to update their details on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal when changing colleges.
They didn’t need a new visa, and their studies continued without interruption. But now, this option has been removed.
What is the new rule?
According to IRCC, students must now apply for a new study permit if they want to transfer at the post-secondary level (such as from one college to another or to a university).
Until the new permit is approved, they cannot start classes at the new institution. If they do, it will be seen as a violation of their current study permit.
Impact on students: Loss or gain?
This change will especially affect students from states like Punjab and Haryana, where many youths go to Canada for higher studies.
Loss: Students will now have to go through the lengthy visa process again, which will take time and money. Their plans may also get delayed.
Gain: The government says this rule will help stop fake colleges and visa scams. Only genuine students who want to study seriously will be able to transfer.
What is the government’s view?
IRCC says this rule is meant to protect students and keep the visa process transparent. It will also help maintain the reputation of Canadian educational institutions.
What should students do?
Students planning to change their college should do so before 30 April 2025 to avoid the new rule.
Also, they should keep checking with visa consultants and visit the official IRCC website regularly for updates.
