Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released an important clarification to its study permit guidelines for Quebec-bound international students, ensuring smoother processing for those pursuing education in the province. The revision corrects the eligibility date for reusing Quebec Acceptance Certificates (CAQs), a crucial document for international students studying in Quebec helping applicants avoid confusion during institutional transfers.

According to the updated directive, CAQs issued before December 6, 2024, may now be reused if students change their educational institutions at the same level of study. The earlier version of the guideline mistakenly referred to December 6, 2025, which has now been officially corrected.

Why this IRCC Update Matters for Quebec Study Permit Applicants

The new IRCC study permit guidelines for Quebec provide much-needed clarity to both students and educational institutions. The CAQ, issued by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI), is a mandatory requirement for any international student planning to study in the province.

By confirming that CAQs issued before December 6, 2024, can still be reused, IRCC aims to reduce administrative delays and ensure students can transfer between institutions without unnecessary paperwork. This update also aligns federal and provincial immigration policies, creating a more streamlined process for students within Quebec’s unique immigration system.

Impact on International Students and Educational Institutions

For students already holding a valid CAQ issued before December 2024, this update means greater flexibility in choosing or changing schools. For example, a student who received a CAQ in 2024 to study at a Montreal college can now transfer to another Quebec institution offering a similar level of study without needing a new CAQ, provided all other eligibility criteria remain met.

Institutions across Quebec from universities to vocational training centers will also benefit, as they can admit transfer students with valid CAQs more efficiently. This change supports the province’s long-standing goal of attracting and retaining international students by simplifying the transition process within Quebec’s education system.

Key Takeaway for Quebec-bound Students

International students planning to study in Quebec should carefully review their CAQ’s issue date before submitting a study permit application. This minor yet critical IRCC study permit guideline update for Quebec ensures smoother transitions and prevents delays caused by documentation errors.

If you’re planning to study in Quebec or anywhere in Canada, ImmigCanada’s team of immigration experts can help you secure your CAQ, study permit, and post-graduate options with complete accuracy and efficiency.

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