Big Updates on Canada Immigration: Visa Processing Times 2024 | Canada Visa

Although Canada has long been a popular choice for foreign students and immigrants looking for better prospects, potential immigrants and students need to stay informed about the changing immigration laws.

As is customary, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is updating its policy in 2024. This thorough reference covers the most recent significant changes to Canada’s visa laws, with an emphasis on work permits for graduates, study permits for students and student visas.

Major Changes in Canada’s Visa Policy

1. Restrictions on changing colleges for international students

Background

In the past, foreign students in Canada may change universities without obtaining a new study permission. The procedure of transferring was not too complicated, regardless of the cause for the student’s dissatisfaction with their programs. However, there have been a lot of adjustments made to this policy.

Revolutionary Policy

International students will no longer be permitted to transfer institutions while utilizing the same study permit as of January 2024. A student must apply for a new study permit if they choose to transfer to another college.

Burden of Administration

For students who want to transfer universities, obtaining a new study permit adds another administrative layer. Students who are making decisions need to exercise greater caution and thoughtfulness when selecting their first college.

Application Process

The new application will go through the same stringent procedures as the original permit application, which include supporting documentation, financial statements, and explanations for the modification.

Motives for the Modification

The Canadian government wants to make sure that foreign students’ educational pathways are transparent and well-documented while also streamlining the monitoring process. It is anticipated that this modification will decrease the number of cases where students enroll in one school just to leave without sufficient supervision.

2. Direct Reporting to EACC

Background

Historically, local provincial authorities have been informed about student enrollment and performance by Canadian colleges, both private and public. Inconsistencies and delays in data transmission to the AGAR transmission to the IRCC were caused by this decentralized reporting system.

Revolutionary Policy

By 2024, every college and university will be required to provide a report to the ACRE about the performance, attendance, and any disciplinary issues of international students.

Consequences

• Centralized data: by having direct access to student data, the ACRE will be able to better monitor and enforce Visa laws.
• Actions immediately: If there are any inconsistencies or problems with a student’s status, the ACRE may act immediately.
• Enhanced accountability: educational institutions will have greater responsibility for the precision and promptness of their reports.

Benefits

It is anticipated that this unified reporting system will increase data management’s precision and efficiency, enabling improved oversight and assistance for overseas students. Additionally, it supports the ex’s objective of preserving the integrity of the study permit program.

3. Changes to Online Education Policies

Background

Canada permitted international students to finish up to 50% of their coursework online during the COVID-19 epidemic and still be eligible for a post-graduation work permit. During the global travel restrictions, this flexibility was essential to sustain the influx of overseas students.

Revolutionary Policy

The regulation that permits 50 of Education to be completed online will be withdrawn starting in 2024. To be eligible for a PGWP, international students must finish their coursework on campus.

Consequences

• To be eligible for the PGWP, students must be physically present in Canada and attend classes on campus.
• Travel and lodging: Foreign students must arrange for their travel and lodging while studying in Canada, which may result in higher costs.
• Program structure: educational establishments could have to modify theirs to accommodate this new requirement

Reasons Behind the Change

To guarantee that international students assimilate completely into the Canadian educational system and community, on-campus instruction is once again required. Additionally, it guarantees that students will profit fully from their time spent studying in Canada.

How to Navigate the New Policies

• For aspiring learners, Make wise choices and well-informed selections. Think about things like location, campus amenities, program repute, and support services before choosing a college or university.
• Make advance plans for international students. To take into account the increased requirements and possible processing time delays, apply well in advance.
• Remain educated: To remain up to speed with the most recent policies, make sure you frequently check for updates from the EACC and your selected school.
• Keep current students in your course of study. Don’t transfer colleges unless absolutely must. If you have to switch, get ready for the new application procedure for a study permit, follow the guidelines for reporting, and make sure that your attendance and performance are appropriately recorded to prevent problems with your study permit status.
• Participate in classes on campus: Decide to finish your coursework on campus to stay eligible for a PGWP.

Impact on Visa Processing Times

The type of application, the applicant’s background, and the volume of applications being processed are some of the variables that might affect how long it takes to receive a visa. These timelines could be affected by the recent regulatory changes, especially for applications for study permits.

Current Processing Times

Study permits

Study permissions typically take a few weeks to several months to process. These days, there may be more people switching institutions because of the new obligation to get a new study permission.

Gorp applications

JUPES processing timeframes can also differ, although requirements for on-campus study may speed up the procedure by guaranteeing that all prerequisites are satisfied.

Tips for Faster Processing

• Complete applications: To prevent delays, make sure your application has all necessary supporting documentation.
• Observation after: Check the status of your application regularly, and if there are any problems or delays, get in touch with the IRCC.
• Expert Help: To make sure your application is precise and comprehensive, think about obtaining assistance from immigration consultants or attorneys.

Conclusion

The most recent revisions to Canada’s immigration laws for 2024 indicate a move in the direction of more stringent oversight and simpler procedures. These modifications are intended to improve the system’s efficiency and integrity, especially in the areas of online learning, reporting requirements, and college transfer.

Potential immigrants and international students must be aware of these changes and make the necessary preparations. You may improve your chances of success and streamline the visa application process by remaining educated and adhering to the new restrictions.

Immigrants and international students are still welcome in Canada. You can realize your dream of studying, working, and starting a future in Canada with rigorous preparation and adherence to the most recent regulations.