Immigration News Announced in May 2025

Hello, World! Today, we would like to share three recent immigration updates that we think you will find interesting.

End of Special Measure for International Students

Effective May 1, 2025, international students who wish to transfer between Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) during their stay on a Study Permit must apply for and obtain a new Study Permit in advance.

Previously, students were allowed to change schools by simply notifying Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) through their online account, without obtaining prior approval. However, this special measure ended on the stated date. Now, most international students need to apply for and get a new Study Permit before transferring to new schools.

To learn more about the process, please check the link below.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/change-schools.html

First Express Entry Draw for Education Occupation

In May 2025, IRCC conducted the first category-based Express Entry draw targeting education- occupations, a category newly introduced in February.

Result

Date and time of round: May 1, 2025

Program: Education occupations

Number of invitations issued: 1,000

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 479

For more information about the result of this draw, please check the link below.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/policies-operational-instructions-agreements/ministerial-instructions/express-entry-rounds.html

IEC Update: Japanese Citizens Can Join Working Holiday Twice

As of April 1, 2025, eligible Japanese citizens are now allowed to participate in Working Holiday under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program up to twice in their lifetime. Each participation allows for a stay of up to 12 months, with a maximum total duration of 24 months.

Previously, participation was limited to only once in a lifetime. With this change, individuals now have greater opportunities to stay longer in Canada and gain more work experience.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for the Working Holiday category, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a Japanese citizen.
• Hold a valid Japanese passport for the entire duration of your stay in Canada. (Your Work Permit cannot be issued for a period longer than your passport’s validity.)
• Provide proof of residence in Japan at the time of application. (This could be either a residential or mailing address in Japan.)
• Be between the ages of 18 and 30 (inclusive)
• Have at least CAD 2,500 to cover your expenses while in Canada.
• Have valid health insurance that covers your stay in Canada. (You may be asked to show proof of insurance upon entering Canada.)
• Be admissible to Canada.
• Have a round-trip ticket or prove you have enough funds to buy a return ticket at the end of your stay.
• Not bring any dependants with you.
• Pay the required application fees.

To learn more about this program, please check the link below.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/iec/eligibility.html?selection=jp-wh#selection

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As mentioned above, most international students are now required to obtain a new Study Permit before transferring to a new DLI.

Canada’s immigration regulations change frequently, so it’s important for anyone planning to immigrate, study, or work in Canada to stay up-to-date and prepare in advance.

If you need our assistance or advice, please feel free to send your inquiry.

“You are one step closer to Canada!”