Big changes are coming for international students in Canada, and they’re not without controversy. Starting February 19, 2026, international students taking prerequisite courses before their main program will receive significantly shorter study permits. This shift in policy has left many wondering about its implications for students’ flexibility, financial planning, and overall experience in Canada. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: the new rules could spark debates about the balance between administrative efficiency and student support.
Under the previous guidelines, immigration officers were instructed to issue study permits for the duration of the prerequisite course(s) plus an additional year. This allowed students ample time to transition into their longer programs without the stress of immediately reapplying for permits. However, the updated rules, published on the immigration department’s website, now mandate that study permits will only be valid for 90 days beyond the completion of the prerequisite course(s).
Let’s break this down with an example. Imagine Celina Lavange, who has been conditionally accepted into a four-year bachelor’s program at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Her acceptance hinges on completing a four-month English as a Second Language (ESL) course from May 6, 2026, to September 6, 2026. Under the new rules, if Celina applies for a study permit before traveling to Canada, she’ll receive a permit valid only until December 5, 2026 (September 6 + 90 days). Once she completes her ESL course, she’ll need to apply for a new study permit for her bachelor’s program—all while remaining in Canada. Fortunately, she’ll benefit from maintained status, allowing her to continue studying under her existing permit while her new application is processed.
But here’s the controversial part: While studying for less than six months typically doesn’t require a study permit, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) advises international students to apply for one if they’re completing prerequisites for a longer program, even if those prerequisites are shorter than six months. Why? Because without that initial permit, students like Celina wouldn’t be allowed to apply for a new permit from within Canada—unless they meet specific exemptions. This raises questions: Is this policy change overly restrictive, or is it a necessary measure to streamline immigration processes?
And this is the part most people miss: There are exceptions to applying for a study permit from within Canada. These include (but aren’t limited to): possessing a valid study or work permit, being the spouse or common-law partner of a worker or student on a valid permit, being an exchange or visiting student, holding a temporary resident permit valid for six months or more, being a sponsored permanent residence applicant, or being a refugee claimant (or their family member).
So, what do you think? Is this policy change fair to international students, or does it add unnecessary hurdles to their educational journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your perspective!
If you’re an international student exploring your options to study in Canada, now’s the time to get informed. Discover your pathways by visiting Canada Visa. And if you need Canadian immigration assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Cohen Immigration Law by completing our contact form or email us at media@canadavisa.com. Join our free newsletter to stay updated on Canada’s top immigration stories delivered straight to your inbox!
