Changes to Canada's International Student Program & Post-Graduation Work Permits
Study Permit Changes
Canada has long been a favored destination for international students seeking quality education. However, recent changes announced by the Canadian government are set to reshape the landscape of international education in the country. The government has introduced significant alterations to the international student program and study permits.
Introducing the Intake Cap
A major change is the introduction of an intake cap on international student permit applications. For the year 2024, the cap is set to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits. This figure represents a substantial decrease of 35% from the numbers seen in 2023. This cap is expected to remain in place for a period of two years.
Provincial and Territorial Caps
Individual caps have been established for each province and territory, calculated based on their respective populations. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will allocate a portion of the national cap to each province and territory. These regions will then distribute their allocations among their designated learning institutions.
The Attestation Letter Requirement
Starting January 22, 2024, every study permit application submitted to the IRCC must include an attestation letter from a province or territory. This letter is a new prerequisite, ensuring that the application aligns with the allocated cap of the respective region. Provinces and territories are expected to establish a process for issuing these attestation letters to students by no later than March 31, 2024. This additional step is seen as a measure to ensure that the distribution of international students across Canada is both fair and in line with regional educational capacities.
Who is Not Affected?
It's important to note that not all international students will be affected by these changes. Study permit renewals will not fall under the new cap. Furthermore, students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as those enrolled in elementary and secondary education, are exempt from these limitations. Additionally, current study permit holders will not be impacted by these changes.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Changes
Canada's immigration landscape is evolving, and with it, the rules governing the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program are undergoing significant changes. These updates, announced by Canada Immigration, are set to redefine the post-study work opportunities for international students. The PGWP is a coveted pathway for international students, allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience after graduation. Here's what's changing:
Changes to Eligibility for PGWP
One of the most notable changes is set to take effect from September 1, 2024. International students who commence a study program that is part of a curriculum licensing arrangement will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit upon graduation.
Expanded Opportunities for Master’s and Short Graduate-Level Program Graduates
In a positive development, graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will soon be eligible to apply for a 3-year work permit. This extension is a boon for these graduates, offering them a more extended period to gain work experience in Canada, which can be crucial for their career development and future immigration prospects.
Restriction on Open Work Permits for Spouses
The new rules bring a restriction that impacts the spouses of international students. Starting from the implementation date, open work permits will only be available to spouses of international students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs. This means that spouses of international students pursuing other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible for open work permits. This change is likely to influence the decision-making of prospective international students with families.
Understanding the Impact
These changes reflect a strategic shift in Canada's approach to international education and post-study work opportunities. For international students, these changes underscore the importance of understanding the nuances of Canadian immigration policies before choosing their study programs. It's crucial for prospective students to stay informed about these updates and plan their education and career paths accordingly.