The Government of Canada, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), has announced significant changes to the international student permit system in an effort to stabilize growth, protect the integrity of the system, and enhance support for students. Here's a breakdown of the key updates:
International Student Permit Cap
To address the challenges posed by rapid increases in international student numbers, the government has set a cap on international student permit applications for 2024. The cap, expected to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, represents a 35% decrease from 2023. This cap will be in effect for two years, and individual provincial and territorial caps have been established, with a focus on provinces experiencing unsustainable growth.
Notable Points:
Master's and doctoral degree, elementary, and secondary education applications are exempt from the cap.
Study permit renewals and current study permit holders are not affected.
Allocation and Attestation Process
Provinces and territories will receive allocations based on the cap, and each study permit application submitted to IRCC from January 22, 2024, onwards will require an attestation letter from the respective province or territory. Provinces are expected to issue attestation letters to students by March 31, 2024.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes
Starting September 1, 2024, international students enrolled in study programs under curriculum licensing arrangements (under curriculum licensing agreements, students physically attend a private college that has been licensed to deliver the curriculum of an associated public college) will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit upon graduation. Additionally, graduates of master's and other short graduate-level programs will now be eligible for a 3-year work permit, providing increased opportunities for work experience and potential transition to permanent residence.
Spouse Open Work Permits (SOWP)
In the coming weeks, open work permits will only be available to spouses of international students in master's and doctoral programs. Spouses of students in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible.
Minister's Statement
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, emphasized the importance of striking a balance between supporting international students and safeguarding the integrity of the immigration system.
"International students are vital to Canada, and enrich our communities. Through the decisive measures announced today, we are striking the right balance for Canada and ensuring the integrity of our immigration system while setting students up for the success they hope for."
Further Initiatives
The government is committed to providing clear pathways to permanent residence for students with in-demand skills and exploring additional measures to better transition international students to the labor force. Recent measures include updates to the cost-of-living requirement and enhanced verification processes for acceptance letters.
In 2024, targeted pilot programs will be implemented to help underrepresented cohorts of international students pursue their studies in Canada.
For more information and updates, stay tuned to Kingfisher Immigration's communications. Book Consultation at: www.kingfisherimmigration.ca Phone: +1-587-432-5999 Email: kingfisherimmigration@gmail.com
Disclaimer: The information provided is based on the announcement from IRCC as of January 22, 2024. Changes may occur, and individuals are advised to stay informed through official channels.
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