Canada Calling: Federal govt plans stricter tracking of international students, allow students to work 24 hours a week

According to the plan detailed in the Canada Gazette, students must apply for a new study permit whenever they switch schools, and this must be done before starting the new program. The federal government is navigating a delicate area since education governance is a provincial responsibility.

students outside an immigration office for Canadian visas. (Express photo)

While the Immigration Department oversees the entry of international students and the conditions for study permit holders, provinces are responsible for designating which colleges and universities can admit these students. Consequently, federal officials face challenges in tracking students’ activities after they enter Canada.

The proposed amendments aim to ensure only genuine colleges and universities qualify for study permits, and to take action against those that do not comply. Designated learning institutions would have 10 days to confirm a student’s acceptance and 60 days to submit a compliance report on each student’s enrolment status.

Random checks could be initiated if there is suspicion of non-compliance, and institutions could face suspension if found non-compliant. The immigration minister would make the final decision on suspensions, which could last up to 12 months, during which time all study permit applications to that institution would be returned to applicants.

The government estimates the changes will cost nearly $87 million over 10 years, including implementation costs for the government, designated learning institutions, and study permit holders who wish to change schools. The public has until July 29 to comment on the proposed changes.

Punjabi youth shot dead in Surrey

A man injured in a Surrey shooting has died, prompting the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) to take over the case. The incident occurred in the early hours of July 5 in the Strawberry Hills neighbourhood of Surrey.

The victim, identified as 25-year-old Jatindeep Singh from Langley, was the target of a targeted and isolated shooting in the 7300-block of 122nd Street. Singh had no criminal record. Police are seeking witnesses and are asking those who knew Singh to come forward with any information.