Visa Fraud: Canada To Verify Acceptance Letter Of Foreign Students

New Delhi: Canada has announced a new verification process for foreign students after a visa fraud came to light earlier this June that left 700 Indian students facing possible deportation. The new rule will come into effect from December 1 and involves verification of the ‘letter of acceptance’, a prerequisite to obtain a study permit in the country.

On October 27, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a set of initiatives designed to enhance the International Student Program and provide increased safeguards for legitimate students against fraudulent activities.

December 1, 2023: Post-secondary designated learning institutions (DLIs) will be required to verify the acceptance letters of all applicants with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This enhanced verification process aims to protect prospective students from fraudulent acceptance letters and prevent issues similar to those experienced by some students earlier this year due to fraud investigations. It will also ensure that study permits are only issued to applicants with genuine acceptance letters.

Fall semester 2024: IRCC will implement a “recognized institution” framework specifically aimed at benefiting post-secondary DLIs that excel in providing exceptional services, support, and outcomes for international students. These designated learning institutions (DLIs) will receive special treatment, including expedited processing of study permit applications for students intending to enroll in their programs.

IRCC will conduct an evaluation of the criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. Reforms will be introduced to better align the program with the requirements of the Canadian job market, as well as regional and Francophone immigration objectives.

These changes aim to protect genuine students from fraudulent activities and prioritise institutions that support international students.