Canada’s Federal Court has announced a major update to its immigration appeal process: a new Study Permit Pilot Project aimed at reducing wait times for judicial review of rejected study permits. Starting October 1, 2024, this pilot could be a game-changer for international students hoping to begin their studies in Canada sooner.
Why This Matters
In 2024, immigration-related filings surged to record-breaking levels, with the Court expecting to receive 24,000 immigration cases by year’s end—four times the pre-pandemic average. A significant portion of these filings involves denied study permits.
Previously, students appealing a rejection could expect a judicial review process of 14–18 months, often delaying their educational plans for years. Under the new pilot program, this entire process will be condensed into just 5 months.
How the Pilot Works
The streamlined process is the result of a joint initiative involving:
- The Federal Court of Canada
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- The Department of Justice (DOJ)
- The private immigration bar
Key features of the pilot include:
- No court hearing required
- Judges can rule on both the leave application and the judicial review simultaneously
- Applicants and IRCC must agree on the facts, which are submitted in a Simplified Certified Tribunal Record
Who Benefits?
According to Federal Court Chief Justice Paul Crampton, the initiative will reduce strain on court resources while helping applicants save time and legal costs. Immigration lawyers emphasize the personal impact, noting that students may now begin school in six months instead of waiting up to three years.
What’s Next
If successful, this pilot could shape how Canada handles future immigration judicial reviews—especially for students whose education and careers depend on timely resolutions.
For students, immigration consultants, and legal practitioners alike, this development highlights a significant step toward a faster, more efficient study permit appeal process in Canada.
Sources: Federal Court News Release 24/09/26
Seeking personalized legal guidance? Book a consult with Visaserve!
