Study permits: Other considerations

Bona fides

Bona fides of all foreign nationals applying for a study permit must be assessed on an individual basis; refusals of non-bona fide students may only withstand legal challenge when the refusal is based on the information related to the specific case before the officer. Therefore, while cultural context or historical migration patterns of a client group may be a contributing factor to the decision- making process, they alone are not valid or legally tenable grounds for refusal based on bona fides. If officers wish to take into account outside information, particularly where that information leads to concerns/doubts about the applicant's bona fides, the applicant must be made aware of the information taken into account and given an opportunity to address those concerns.

This interaction should be fully documented in the “Notes” section within the Global Case Management System. The onus, as always, remains on the applicant to establish that they are a bona fide temporary resident who will leave Canada following the completion of their studies pursuant to paragraph R216(1)(b).

Distance learning

Distance learning can be through e-learning, correspondence, or Internet courses. Distance learning is a process by which technology is used in ways where the student does not have to physically be in the place where the teaching is taking place.

Since by definition distance learning does not require one to be in Canada, a study permit cannot be issued for this type of course. For example, if a foreign national authorized to work in Canada is prohibited from engaging in studies as per a condition of their work permit, they are allowed to engage in distance learning courses.

However, some distance learning courses include an in-Canada portion to the program (for example, special tutorials or the writing of final exams). If the overall course of study is greater than 6 months, then the student requires a study permit for the in-Canada portion of the program, even if the in-Canada portion is less than 6 months. The duration of the study permit should be for the duration of the in-Canada portion only.

Dual intent

Subsection A22(2) states that an intention by a foreign national to become a permanent resident does not preclude them from becoming a temporary resident if the officer is satisfied that they will leave Canada by the end of the period authorized for their stay. Learn more about dual intent.

Exceptional situations

When international students are unable to fulfill their conditions as temporary residents due to circumstances entirely beyond their control (for example, a school strike), they should not face any sanctions by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canada Border Services Agency.

For example, if international students are due to apply for a study permit extension during labour unrest, they should include with their application an explanation (from the registrar of the educational institution) of why they have been unable to continue with their studies or attend school. International students must, however, maintain valid temporary residence at all times and should maintain their status as a student during this period by renewing their study permit before it expires or becomes invalid. Once the labour unrest has been resolved, they will be able to resume their studies, provided that they continue to have valid temporary residence and a valid study permit.

Official languages

Under section 41 of the Official Languages Act, the Government of Canada, and IRCC, is committed to enhancing the vitality of the English and French linguistic minority, and fostering the full recognition and use of both English and French in Canadian society.

If an officer has concerns about the academic or administrative practices of a program of study that is offered by an institution in an linguistic minority community, they should follow the procedures relating to “concerns about an institution” as outlined in Study permits: Letters of acceptance (LOAs).

Professional training programs

A professional training program is a type of additional education or training usually offered to professionals already in the field. Professional development is generally “accredited”; that is, it is recognized by an industry, association, or profession. Professional training is offered through community colleges, universities, CEGEPs, career colleges, professional associations, or unions.

In general, professional training programs require participants to complete both a study and work component in order to successfully complete the program, and obtain the given credential. However, unlike co-op/internship programs in post-secondary institutions (for example, universities, community colleges) such programs often consist of a full-time work component and a part-time study component. The work component often comprises more than 50% of the study component.

Applicants wishing to participate in professional training programs must:

• apply for a study permit to cover the study portion, if the study component is more than 6 months at a designated learning institution

apply for the appropriate work permit to cover the work portion