What Changed for Canada Student Visas in February 2018?

In February 2018, Canada introduced changes to its immigration policies, including some updates affecting student visas. While these changes may not have been comprehensive reforms, they included adjustments aimed at making the process smoother for international students and enhancing compliance measures. Below are key aspects that were updated around this time:

Key Changes Introduced in February 2018

1. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Flexibility

o Students no longer needed to hold a valid study permit when applying for a PGWP. This provided more flexibility in transitioning to work in Canada after graduation.

2. Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) Compliance

o Enhanced monitoring of DLIs to ensure they meet standards for accepting and supporting international students.

o Students were required to ensure they were enrolled in a DLI that was eligible to host international students for a valid study permit.

3. Increased Scrutiny on Financial Documentation

o Tighter checks on financial proof to ensure students could support themselves during their stay, including tuition fees and living expenses.

4. Stronger Enforcement of Study Permit Conditions

o Students needed to demonstrate consistent progress in their studies to maintain their study permit status. Failure to attend classes or pursue their program actively could lead to visa revocation.

5. Improved Transition to Permanent Residency

o Introduction of pathways, such as the Global Skills Strategy, aimed to make it easier for international students with Canadian education and work experience to apply for permanent residency.

6. Streamlined Biometrics Requirements

o Biometrics collection (fingerprints and photo) became a mandatory part of the visa application process for certain countries, enhancing security and identity verification.

Tips for Students Affected by Changes

• Stay Compliant: Always meet the conditions of your study permit, such as attending classes and making academic progress.

• Update Documentation: Ensure all required documents, including financial proofs and DLI enrollment, are in order.

• Plan for PGWP: Be aware of the timeline for applying for a PGWP after completing your program.

If you need more detailed or updated information about Canada’s student visa policies, let me know!