How Canada’s New Immigration Policies Impact International Students

The Government of Canada has introduced significant changes to study permit regulations and work opportunities for international students. These updates, effective November 1, 2024, aim to streamline processes while aligning with broader immigration policies. Here's a breakdown of the key developments:

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility Updates

1. Program Designation Requirement:

   • Students graduating from designated programs (over 960 fields) will qualify for a PGWP.
   • Those enrolled before November 1, 2024, are exempt from this rule and may still apply for a PGWP regardless of their program.

2. Program Changes and Extensions:

   
   
   • Students who switch to non-designated programs and require a study permit extension after the deadline will lose PGWP eligibility.

3. Permit Expiry and Extension:

   • The expiry date of a study permit is typically the length of the study program plus an additional 90 days.
   • Students must apply for an extension before the permit expires to continue studying in Canada.

New Requirements for Study Permits

1. Financial Proof:

   • The financial requirement has increased to CAD 20,635, nearly doubling the previous amount.
   • Schools must ensure students have secured housing before issuing admission letters.

2. Provincial or Territorial Approval:

   
   
   • Starting in 2025, applicants will need a Provincial or Territorial Approval Letter (PAL) as part of their study permit application.

Quota for Study Permits and Visa Restrictions

1. Reduction in Student Visas:

   • Canada will issue 10% fewer student visas, capping the total at 437,000 by 2025.
   • Master's and doctoral students are allotted 12% of this quota.

2. Rules for Accompanying Family Members:

   • Spouses of master’s students in programs lasting at least 16 months will be eligible for work permits.

Impact on Students and Stakeholders

While the changes ensure the integrity of Canada's immigration system, stakeholders have expressed concerns:

• Student Concerns: Many worry about the impact of program changes on PGWP eligibility.
• Institutional Impact: Colleges, such as those in British Columbia, report a significant portion of students may be affected.

Canada’s Growing International Student Population

Despite these changes, international student numbers continue to rise. In 2023, Canada hosted over 1 million students with active study permits—a 29% increase from the previous year. India, China, and the Philippines remain top contributors to this growth.

Conclusion

Canada’s new regulations reflect a strategic approach to balancing education, immigration, and labor market needs. While the changes present challenges, they emphasize the importance of planning and adherence to updated requirements for students aspiring to study and work in Canada.