International student at Western ‘completely stuck’ waiting months for study permit amid new Canadian rules

Less than one week before the fall semester starts, Western University graduate student Yixuan Peng is facing uncertainty about whether he will be able to attend his orientation or classes in London, Ont.

Peng, an international student from China, was accepted to Western’s master of science business analytics program in early May. However, he has yet to receive the new study permit he applied for that month.

“It’s frustrating not knowing what the future holds,” said Peng, who goes by the name Peter. “I can’t make any plans and it’s causing a lot of stress.”

Due to new federal rules implemented in November, international students changing post-secondary schools must apply for a new study permit. The processing times for these permits can take up to 173 days, or almost six months.

As a result, Peng is unable to plan for the upcoming year, including dealing with a one-year rental contract.

The changes to the study permit system were introduced to crack down on disingenuous international students and to protect the reputation of Canadian post-secondary institutions. Any student wishing to change designated learning institutions must apply for a new study permit and cannot start courses until the application is approved.

The delays in processing study permits are causing problems for many international students, including Peng. Nancy Duggal, an immigration consultant in London, has seen about 20 applicants in similar situations.

“Students are struggling to make ends meet as they wait for their permits,” Duggal said. “Many are unemployed and facing financial burdens due to the delays.”

Despite the challenges, IRCC is committed to processing study permit applications as quickly as possible. The department is prioritizing resources to ensure that students can attend classes as planned.

Western University is offering support to international students who do not receive study permits by September. This includes one-on-one support from immigration advisers and flexibility in start dates where possible.

Peng has been given an extension until September 15 to obtain his study permit. If he does not receive it by then, he may have to defer his studies until next year. This uncertainty has forced him to move into student housing without a study permit, adding to his financial burden.

The situation highlights the challenges faced by international students navigating Canada’s study permit system. As Peng waits for a resolution, he remains hopeful that he will be able to pursue his graduate studies at Western University.