Rejected by IRCC? This Pilot Program Could Be Your Solution

If your study permit application to Canada has been denied, you may qualify for the Federal Court's Study Permit Pilot Project. This initiative provides a streamlined process for seeking judicial review of rejected applications, offering students an opportunity to expedite their cases effectively.

Overview of the Study Permit Pilot Project

Start Date: October 1, 2024
The Study Permit Pilot Project is a Federal Court initiative designed to handle judicial reviews for study permit refusals more efficiently. Under this program:

• Judges can simultaneously decide on leave and judicial review without requiring a hearing.
• The program is available only to cases where both the student and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) agree to participate.

Key Restrictions:

• No New Evidence: Applicants and respondents cannot submit affidavit evidence, which prevents the introduction of new facts.
• Mandatory Electronic Filing: All documents must be submitted through the Court’s Electronic Filing System (E-Filing).

Eligibility Criteria

• Your study permit application must have been rejected by IRCC.
• You must consent to participate in the Pilot Project.
• Filing fees include $50 for the Application for Leave and Judicial Review, with no additional costs for opting into the Pilot Project.

Filing Deadlines:

• Within Canada: 15 days from the date you receive the refusal notice.
• Outside Canada: 60 days from the date you receive the refusal notice.

Steps to Participate in the Pilot Project

1. File Your Application for Leave and Judicial Review

Use Form IR-1 and include the required information for the Pilot Project:

• Write in bold at the top of the form:
  “SIMPLIFIED PROCEDURE – STUDY PERMIT PILOT PROJECT”
• Above your signature, include the statement:
  “The Applicant consents to proceeding under the SIMPLIFIED PROCEDURE – STUDY PERMIT PILOT PROJECT.”
• Add your Study Permit Application Number and Unique Client Identifier (UCI) provided by IRCC.

2. Submit Through E-Filing

When completing the E-Filing process:

• In the "Handling Instructions" section, write:
  “SIMPLIFIED PROCEDURE – STUDY PERMIT PILOT PROJECT.”

Important Notes

• The Pilot Project aims to expedite the judicial review process, offering international students a faster resolution.
• While the process is streamlined, ensure all details in your application are accurate and comply with Federal Court rules.

By following the outlined steps and meeting the requirements, you can leverage this opportunity to seek timely reconsideration of your study permit application.