Canada is set to introduce a ‘recognized institution’ framework; as per this initiative, colleges and universities with a positive record of supporting students will be eligible for fast-track study permits. As per the federal government, post-secondary institutions are required to verify international students admission letters. Marc Miller, minister of immigration, refugees, and citizenship, said that the new policies are aimed at punishing the bad actors.
According to Miller, the major object in the fraud is admissions letters, which is a big concern for the IRCC. The fake admission letters pose a major threat in terms of the integrity of the student program. Earlier in 2023, over 100 students faced deportation after their admission letters were found to be fake. Multiple students said they were unaware of the fake admission letters.
The government of Canada has promised to take relevant actions against fraud. Miller confirmed that the government is looking into 285 admission letters; so far, they have reviewed 103 letters, of which 63 were genuine. Moreover, the government issued temporary residence visas to 30 students out of the 63 genuine students.
From December 2023, an enhanced system for study permit processing will be launched. As per the new system, Canada’s immigration department will directly verify the admission letters of students. Additionally, ‘a recognised institution’ framework will be set up in the fall of 2024, for which the information will be issued next year.
Miller said it will recognise those institutions that benefit international students with their top class service, housing, and other essential support. A spokesperson said the measures align with the goal of supporting sustainable international student enrollment growth.
In addition to this, Miller hinted at the upcoming reforms relating to the post-graduation work permit program. The programme will meet the requirement for labour in the market. Moreover, the minister spoke about the challenges that Canada’s international education sector is facing, particularly in Ontario.
Miller remarked that measures will be taken to tackle fraud and disturbances in the international education sector in the coming future. Many institutions are waiting to see the impact of government measures on international education-related matters.
