The Canadian government has rolled out new regulations aimed at bolstering the integrity of its International Student Program, a move intended to protect students from fraud and ensure the program remains sustainable.
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the changes on Friday, which include stricter compliance measures for educational institutions and a new cap on off-campus work hours for international students.
Effective immediately, students are allowed to work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic sessions. The cap replaces the temporary removal of work-hour limits introduced during the pandemic and is designed to balance students’ ability to earn an income while maintaining their focus on education.
The new rules also require international students to apply for and receive approval for a new study permit before transferring to another institution. Educational institutions, known as Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), now face stricter compliance requirements. They must submit biannual reports verifying whether international students remain enrolled. Institutions failing to comply risk suspension from admitting new students for up to a year.
Since December 2023, the government has implemented a system to verify Letters of Acceptance (LOA) issued by DLIs. Of nearly 529,000 letters reviewed, over 17,000 were flagged as fraudulent or canceled before the individuals applied for study permits.
“These changes ensure that students have a positive and successful experience in Canada while maintaining the integrity of the program,” said Minister Miller.
Canada remains a top destination for international students, drawn by its inclusive society and opportunities for work and immigration after graduation. However, the government has emphasized the need to align the program with long-term economic goals while addressing issues such as fraud and misuse.
Quebec-based DLIs have been granted a grace period to meet new compliance requirements, as the province works with federal authorities to establish its reporting system.
The reforms come as Canada continues to adjust its immigration policies, including a planned reduction in the temporary resident population outlined in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan.
While the changes prioritize oversight and fairness, they also underscore the government’s commitment to preserving Canada’s reputation as a global leader in education, ensuring that international students continue to benefit from high-quality academic and professional opportunities.
