COW – Student Fraud – May 28, 2026

General

Since 2023, our reforms have strengthened the integrity of the International Student Program
We implemented a new letter of acceptance verification system, updated regulations to require students to get a new study permit when switching institutions and introduced penalties for designated learning institutions that fail to provide student compliance reports.
We have a multi-layered approach to prevent, detect, and address fraud in study permit applications.
Since last year, IRCC has followed up on 100% of cases flagged by institutions.
When it comes to fraud, we are focused on identifying:
- organizers of coordinated fraud and
- individuals who knowingly commit fraud or attempt to deceive IRCC.
We collaborate closely with domestic and international enforcement bodies, as well as provincial and territorial partners, to identify cases of concern and program integrity issues.

We are taking steps to ensure consistent follow-up action is taken when fraud is uncovered. For example, were are centralizing responsibility to more consistently pursue findings of misrepresentation, which include a 5-year ban from coming to Canada, when applicants submit fraudulent letters of acceptance and other documents.
We have begun assessing extension applications from former Student Direct Stream applicants with a renewed risk lens.

2026-09-25