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Canada has cautioned international students to understand the study permit process carefully and remain alert to immigration fraud, warning that false or misleading information can lead to visa refusal and entry bans of up to five years. The advisory, issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), outlines key rules for applying to study in the country and flags common scam tactics targeting foreign students.
IRCC said a study permit, which costs CAN$150, allows international students to study in Canada, but applicants remain responsible for all information submitted, even if they use an agent or representative. Submitting incorrect details can result in serious penalties, including long-term bans.
Common fraud warning signs
The government listed several red flags students should watch for, including being asked to apply without a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, being promised admission or scholarships in exchange for money, or being told that all courses automatically qualify for a post-graduation work permit. IRCC also warned against anyone guaranteeing jobs or permanent residence, offering discounted tuition for a fee, or requesting payments or documents through social media.
Students were advised to always deal directly with educational institutions for admission and tuition payments and to report suspicious or fraudulent activities.
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Rules on using representatives
IRCC said students may apply on their own or use a representative, but all representatives must be declared in the application. Failing to do so is considered misrepresentation and can lead to refusal. The department stressed that only authorized representatives are legally allowed to charge fees for immigration services in Canada.
Unauthorized representatives, often referred to as visa agents or fixers, have no special access to immigration officials and cannot speed up applications, IRCC said.
The government also urged applicants to avoid signing blank forms, verify all information before submission, keep receipts for payments, and stay involved in the application process to ensure it is properly filed.
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Common fraud warning signs
The government listed several red flags students should watch for, including being asked to apply without a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution, being promised admission or scholarships in exchange for money, or being told that all courses automatically qualify for a post-graduation work permit. IRCC also warned against anyone guaranteeing jobs or permanent residence, offering discounted tuition for a fee, or requesting payments or documents through social media.Students were advised to always deal directly with educational institutions for admission and tuition payments and to report suspicious or fraudulent activities.
(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)
Rules on using representatives
IRCC said students may apply on their own or use a representative, but all representatives must be declared in the application. Failing to do so is considered misrepresentation and can lead to refusal. The department stressed that only authorized representatives are legally allowed to charge fees for immigration services in Canada.Unauthorized representatives, often referred to as visa agents or fixers, have no special access to immigration officials and cannot speed up applications, IRCC said.
The government also urged applicants to avoid signing blank forms, verify all information before submission, keep receipts for payments, and stay involved in the application process to ensure it is properly filed.