Quebec corrected CAQ guidance: reuse for same‑level institutional transfers is limited to CAQs issued before December 6, 2024 (previously misstated as Dec 6, 2025). CAQs dated on or after December 6, 2024 will require a new CAQ to change institutions at the same study level, affecting international students and pending transfers.
Soheil Hosseini
October 20, 2025
Jurisdiction
Quebec
Week
Week 43
Impact
Low
Programs Affected
Quebec corrects CAQ guidance, restricts reuse to certificates issued before December 6, 2024
Summary: Quebec has corrected its instructions on reusing a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) when changing educational institutions at the same level of study, limiting reuse to CAQs issued before December 6, 2024.
Date of update: 2025-10-20 | Program affected: Study Permit | Source: News Article Quebec has updated its guidance to clarify that a CAQ may be reused for a same‑level institutional transfer only if the CAQ was issued before December 6, 2024. The previous wording erroneously allowed reuse for CAQs issued before December 6, 2025. This correction means applicants whose CAQs are dated on or after December 6, 2024 will need a new CAQ to change institutions at the same level of study. The update directly affects international students in Quebec relying on a CAQ for their federal Study Permit. Potential impacts:
- Positive: Provides clearer compliance boundaries and reduces ambiguity for students and institutions.
- Negative: Students who planned transfers based on the earlier guidance may face additional processing, costs, and potential delays if a new CAQ is now required. What to do now:
- Check your CAQ issue date. If it is on or after December 6, 2024 and you intend to change institutions at the same level, prepare to apply for a new CAQ before transferring.
- Institutions and counsel should review pending transfer cases to align with the corrected rule. This clarification underscores the importance of verifying official instructions and timelines when planning academic transfers in Quebec.
Tags: Quebec, CAQ, Quebec Acceptance Certificate, Study Permit, International Students, Canada Immigration, Policy Update, Education Transfers, Compliance, Immigration News
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