Accelerated Review for Rejected Study Permits: Canada’s New Pilot Program
If you’ve had your study permit application rejected by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), there’s some encouraging news. The Federal Court of Canada has announced the launch of a new pilot program aimed at expediting the judicial review process for these rejected permits, starting October 1st.
What Is the Study Permit Pilot Project?
This pilot program seeks to streamline and shorten the time needed for judicial reviews of rejected study permits. Typically, the review process can take anywhere from 14 to 18 months, but this new initiative aims to reduce that timeframe to just 5 months. The judicial review process allows applicants to challenge an IRCC decision in court.
Changes in the Review Process
In the traditional process, a judge must first determine whether to grant permission for a judicial review. If permission is granted, the case is then evaluated. However, under this pilot program, both the permission and the review will happen concurrently, making the process much more efficient.
Cost Implications
Fortunately, this pilot program does not incur any additional fees for applicants. The standard fee of $50 for permission and judicial review remains unchanged.
Who Is Eligible?
Students who have received rejection letters for their study permit applications may qualify for this program. To be eligible, both the applicant and IRCC must agree to participate in the pilot. Other criteria include:
- Agreement on the facts of the case by both parties.
- No need for the applicant to request additional time for seeking permission.
Application Timeframes
Applicants inside Canada must submit their request within 15 days of receiving their rejection letter. Those applying from outside Canada have 60 days to take advantage of this new opportunity.
How to Apply
To apply, all documents must be submitted online through the Federal Court’s filing system. Applicants will need to complete Form IR-1 for both permission and the judicial review, mentioning the pilot project in three specific sections of the application.
Why Is This Program Being Launched?
The Federal Court has noted a significant increase in requests for judicial reviews, prompting the need for a more efficient process. This pilot program aims to alleviate some of the delays and optimize court resources, making the system more responsive to applicants’ needs.
For additional information on eligibility and application procedures, I encourage you to visit the Federal Court’s website. Or Click Here
1. What is the Study Permit Pilot Project?
The Study Permit Pilot Project is a new initiative by Canada’s Federal Court to fast-track the judicial review process for rejected study permits. Under this pilot, the review process, which normally takes 14 to 18 months, will be completed within 5 months.
2. Who is eligible for the pilot program?
To be eligible, both the applicant and Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) must agree to opt into the program. Additionally, there must be agreement on the facts of the case, and no requests for an extension to seek permission should be needed.
3. How long do I have to apply after my study permit is rejected?
Applicants residing in Canada must apply within 15 days of receiving their rejection notice. Those residing outside Canada have 60 days to apply.
4. How do I apply for the Study Permit Pilot Project?
Applications must be submitted online through the Federal Court’s filing system. You will need to fill out Form IR-1 for permission and judicial review and reference the pilot project in three sections of your application.
5. Does the pilot program require additional fees?
No, the pilot program does not have additional fees. The standard fee of $50 for both permission and judicial review still applies.