Full Guide to IRCC Study Permit Conditions and Compliance

Full Guide to IRCC Study Permit Conditions and Compliance

Published: May 15, 2025 | By: AARA Canada

This comprehensive guide explains how IRCC officers assess international student compliance with study permit conditions under Canada’s immigration law. The details apply to students applying for extensions, re-entry, or being reviewed for status violations.

What the Law Says: IRPR 220.1(1)

  • Students must enroll and remain enrolled at the DLI listed on their permit.
  • They must actively pursue their studies while in Canada.

Key Compliance Areas

1. Enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

Since November 8, 2024, a student’s permit must name the DLI they’re attending. Changing DLIs requires applying for a new study permit. Even students without a named DLI must remain enrolled.

2. Study Permit Invalidity – Regulation R222(1)

Permits become invalid:

  • 90 days after completion of studies
  • Upon withdrawal from DLI (unless studies are complete)
  • When cancelled under R243.2
  • When the permit expires

Continuing studies after invalidity counts as unauthorized activity.

3. Active Pursuit of Studies

Students must be enrolled full-time or part-time (per institutional definitions). In Quebec, full-time status is mandatory. IRCC expects measurable progress toward completing programs.

4. Leave from Studies

Leaves must:

  • Be authorized by the DLI
  • Last no longer than 150 days

Longer leaves require the student to change status (to visitor or worker) or leave Canada. Frequent leaves raise red flags.

5. Deferred Enrollment

Students deferring enrollment must resume studies within 150 days. Updated letters of acceptance must be submitted.

6. DLI Closures

If a school closes permanently, students have 150 days to transfer, leave Canada, or change status. Failure to act results in non-compliance.

7. Changing DLIs or Programs

Multiple switches without valid reasoning may lead IRCC to conclude non-compliance.

Status Considerations

Maintaining or Changing Status

Students changing to visitor or worker status must not study unless they switch back. Extending a study permit before expiry allows maintained status under IRPR 183(5).

Impact on Family Members

Spouses (C42)

If the primary student takes leave >150 days, their spouse can still work under a valid C42 permit until its expiry.

Children

Children can continue studying without a permit if the parent’s permit remains valid. Otherwise, they must apply for their own study permits.

Work and Co-op Restrictions

  • Work (on/off campus) is not allowed during any leave
  • Co-op/internship placements also not permitted during leave

Evidence of Compliance

Officers may request documentation, including:

  • Enrollment confirmations
  • Leave approval letters
  • Transcripts
  • Medical letters
  • Institution closure letters

Non-Compliance and Procedural Fairness

Officers must send a Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL) before finalizing a negative decision. Consequences of non-compliance include:

  • Exclusion orders
  • 6-month bar on future permits

Exemptions to Study Permit Conditions

Exempt individuals include:

  • Refugee claimants and protected persons
  • Diplomats and their families
  • Visiting Forces personnel
  • Spouses/children of authorized workers/students
  • Exchange students under specific treaties

How AARA Canada Helps You Stay Compliant

We provide:

  • Permit extension and restoration
  • Support with DLI changes and letters
  • Guidance for procedural fairness responses
  • Family visa strategy planning

Book your free assessment today to protect your future in Canada.