Major Changes to Canada’s Study Permit Program – What Students & Schools Need to Know (April 2025)

Canada’s international education landscape is evolving, and so are the rules. On April 23, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced key regulatory updates to the International Student Program (ISP)—aimed at strengthening oversight and ensuring compliance among both international students and Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs).

At MGI Immigration Services, we’re committed to keeping our clients informed with the latest updates that could impact their study plans or institutional partnerships.

Summary of Key Updates:

1. Mandatory Confirmation of Letters of Acceptance (LOA)

A major change is now in effect: study permits will only be issued if a DLI confirms the student’s Letter of Acceptance (LOA) directly with IRCC. Applications without confirmation will be returned without processing.

This applies to:

• New applicants at post-secondary DLIs.

• Those applying under updated rules as of November 8, 2024.

Tip: Ensure your chosen institution promptly confirms your LOA with IRCC after you apply.

2. Changing DLIs? A New Study Permit Is Required

Under the new regulation R217.1, students must apply for a new study permit if they plan to transfer to a different DLI—especially at the post-secondary level.

In certain conditions (R189.1), students can start studying at the new institution while their new application is in process, but only if those specific conditions are met.

3. You Must Stay Enrolled at Your Approved DLI

Students are now legally required to stay enrolled at the DLI named on their permit until they finish their program (R220.1(1)(a)).

If a student withdraws or is unenrolled for reasons other than graduation, their study permit becomes invalid under R222(1)(a.1).

Unenrolling without a valid reason could lead to status loss and removal from Canada.

4. New Institutional Compliance Rules

DLIs are now under stricter requirements to remain eligible to host international students:

• DLIs must meet ongoing compliance standards (R222.1 to R222.5).

• Institutions may be placed on a suspension list (R222.6(1)) if they fail to comply.

• IRCC will return study permit applications or reject renewals for students applying to suspended DLIs.

📞 Need Guidance?

At MGI Immigration Services, we assist students, institutions, and families with expert advice and application support. As a licensed RCIC, we’re here to help you navigate these changes with confidence.

👉 Book a consultation today to secure your study plans in Canada.