New IRCC Rules for International Students Changing Schools in 2025
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced new regulations for international students in Canada who intend to change schools. Depending on your situation, you may need to apply for a new study permit when transferring to a different institution. This article outlines essential information and the required steps for international students planning to change schools in 2025, including:
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Guidance for specific transfer scenarios
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Special measures for students transferring between January and May 2025
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Key considerations for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility after changing schools
Do I Need a New Study Permit When Changing Schools?
Whether or not you need a new permit depends on the type and level of the school transfer. Here’s a breakdown:
| Situation | Required Action |
|---|---|
| Changing Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) at the post-secondary level | Must apply to extend your current study permit |
| Transferring between programs at the same DLI (post-secondary level) | May continue with your current permit if you maintain student status |
| Moving from secondary to post-secondary level | Must apply to extend your current study permit |
| Moving from post-secondary to secondary level | Must apply to extend your study permit |
| Changing DLIs at the elementary or secondary level | May continue with your current permit unless special conditions apply |
| Moving from elementary to secondary at the same DLI | May continue with your current permit unless otherwise stated |
| Changing DLIs in Quebec | Generally must apply for a new permit and submit a CAQ approval |
⚠️ Note: If a student moves from secondary to post-secondary, their study permit becomes invalid 90 days after completing secondary school—even if the permit shows a later expiry date.
Failing to notify IRCC of a school or program change can lead to serious consequences, including invalidation of your study permit, a requirement to leave Canada, or restrictions on re-entry.
How to Apply for a Study Permit Extension
To extend your study permit, follow these steps:
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Obtain updated documents, including a new Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
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Gather required documents based on IRCC’s document checklist (Guide 5552)
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Complete the necessary forms and upload documents online
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Pay the application fees
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Submit your extension request online (unless you’re eligible for a paper application)
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Ensure the new DLI confirms your LOA within the required timeframe
Special Measures for Transfers Between January and May 2025
Students admitted to a new DLI for the Winter or Spring 2025 terms may begin studying before receiving a new study permit, provided they:
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Have received an LOA from the new DLI for Winter or Spring term
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Have submitted a study permit extension request
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Hold a valid study permit that does not list the new DLI
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Comply with all current permit conditions
Important PGWP Considerations
As of November 2024, international graduates in Canada must meet both language requirements and, depending on the program, field-of-study requirements to qualify for a PGWP.
PGWP Eligibility (Applications Before November 1, 2024):
| Education Level | Language Requirement | Field of Study Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD | CLB/NCLC Level 7 in all four skills | None |
| Other university programs | CLB/NCLC Level 7 in all four skills | None |
| College or non-university programs | CLB/NCLC Level 5 in all four skills | None |
PGWP Eligibility (Applications After November 1, 2024):
| Education Level | Language Requirement | Field of Study Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD | CLB/NCLC Level 7 in all four skills | None |
| Other university programs | CLB/NCLC Level 7 in all four skills | Must graduate from an eligible program |
| College or non-university programs | CLB/NCLC Level 5 in all four skills | Must graduate from an eligible program |
School Transfer-Related Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Study Permit (including extension) – per person | $150 CAD |
| Restoration of student status (includes $239.75 for status + $150 for new permit) | $389.75 CAD |
| Biometrics (per person) | $85 CAD |
| Biometrics (family – 2 or more people) | $170 CAD |
These new rules and procedures are crucial for maintaining your legal student status and ensuring future eligibility for work permits in Canada. If you’re planning a school transfer, it’s highly recommended to review IRCC guidelines carefully or consult a licensed immigration professional.