Canada is one of the most preferred countries for international students. After the latest IRCC Update Canada many students are in chaos of rule. what rule will be applicable to new applicants and old applicants in 2024. The government now clearly mentioned the new requirements for students who receive applications on or after January 22, 2024. They include criteria of attestation letter, PGWP limit, spousal visa etc.
IRCC Update Canada impact to international students
Here are the detailed information of the new rules that impact on study in Canada planning.
- Temporary federal cap on international student intake:
The number of study permits being approved in 2024 is expected to decrease by 35 per cent over 2023 to 360,000. The cap for 2025 will be decided at the end of 2024. - Changes to Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria:
International students who begin study programs at private universities with licensed curriculum on or after September 1, 2024, will be prohibited for PGWPs. - Longer PGWPs for master’s graduates:
Students who’ve completed master’s programs in Canada will soon be able to get three-year PGWPs. - Changes to Spousal Open Work Permit eligibility:
Only spouses of international students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, and professional programs will be eligible for open work permits. - Updated cost-of-living requirements for students:
Starting January 1, 2024, international students need to show their strong financial stability. They must have at least $20,635 (previously $10,000) to cover their living expenses.
Temporary cap on Canadian study permits being issued
On January 22, 2024, the federal government announced a two-year intake cap on study permit applications. It is expected that approximately 360,000 new study permits will be issued to international students in 2024. That will be a 35 per cent decrease compared to 2023. The cap for 2025 will be determined at the end of the year.
There is also a limitation in the entrance of international students in each province. To get enrolled in a specific province college the student needs to get an attestation letter.
Further, provinces and territories will be able to allocate study permit caps to universities and colleges in their jurisdictions. The caps will not apply to international students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in Canada. Students who are renewing their Canadian study permits will also not be affected.
Changes to Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility
A PGWP may be issued to international students who’ve completed an eligible study program in Canada. Previously, those who completed a Canadian study program longer than eight months were eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permits.
Starting September 1, 2024, international students enrolled in public-private partnership universities won’t qualify for post-graduation work permits (PGWPs). This means they won’t have the option to work in Canada after completing their studies. It’s important for affected students to consider alternative plans for their future careers in Canada.
