Studying abroad is a challenging process, but not an impossible one. By planning meticulously and diligently, students can pursue international education. To embark on this journey successfully, staying updated with the rules and regulations of your desired destination is crucial.
For many aspiring international students, Canada is a top study destination. Canada has recently implemented several changes in study rules for international students, particularly in the study permit and post-graduate work permit (PGWP) requirements. Whether Canada is already on your shortlist or you are just beginning to explore university and college options in the country, being aware of these recent developments is essential. This article aims to provide insights into the latest updates, ensuring that you are well-informed about the changes affecting international students in Canada.
Overview of New Rules for International Students
As an aspiring student, you must be aware of the changes in the study visa rules. Here are the key changes:
1. Temporary Federal Cap on Study Permits
We anticipate a 35% reduction in approved study permits in 2024, with the intake capped at 360,000. The cap for 2025 will be determined by year-end 2024 only.
2. Changes to Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility
As of September 1, 2024, international students enrolling in private colleges with licensed curricula will not qualify for PGWPs.
3. Extended PGWPs for Master’s Graduates
Graduates of master’s programs in Canada can now benefit from a prolonged post-graduation work opportunity as they become eligible for three-year PGWPs.
4. Revised Cost-of-Living standards
Effective January 1, 2024, international students must show a minimum of CAD 20,635 (previously CAD 10,000) to cover living expenses. For Quebec, the rules are different.
5. Eligibility Changes for Spousal Open Work Permit
Open work permits for spouses are now limited to those of international students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, and professional programs.
1. Temporary Cap on Study Permits
The federal government’s announcement on January 22, 2024, brings forth a significant shift in international education. To manage the influx of international students, authorities have introduced a two-year cap on approving study permit applications. Projections indicate a notable 35% reduction in the issuance of new study permits in 2024 compared to the previous year, with an estimated 360,000 permits expected to be granted. The cap for 2025 is yet to be determined and will be decided at the end of the year.
Provinces and territories will be able to impose limitations on the number of new international students enrolled in undergraduate programs as a result of this revolutionary policy. Ontario and other areas with unsustainable growth will probably see a 50% decrease in the number of research permit granted. These provinces now have the authority to set caps on study permits for particular colleges and universities under their control.
Nevertheless, students seeking master’s or doctoral degrees are exempt from these regulations. Renewing their study permits won’t affect international students who are currently enrolled in classes in Canada, allowing them to continue their education without any difficulties.
Canada’s Decision to Limit International Students
Canada has witnessed a significant rise in the issuance of study permits, creating challenges in infrastructure, especially in the housing and healthcare sectors. Additionally, certain private institutions have admitted more international students to boost their revenues, neglecting admission improvements and curriculum standards. These factors collectively compelled the government to enforce a cap on study permits. Ultimately, this initiative ensures that international students in Canada receive the necessary support for academic success and overall well-being.
Impact of International Student Cap on Study Permit Applicants
The new study permit cap raises concerns for international students. As there will undoubtedly be significant consequences, let us explore the direct impact of the student cap on study permits.
Increased Competition: As study permit approval decreases, the competition for admission into Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) is anticipated to increase.
Master’s and Doctoral Programs: The rule does not apply to students enrolled in master’s or doctoral programs in Canada.
Challenges for Undergraduate Programs: Enrolling in undergraduate programs such as bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, or certificates will pose a more significant challenge for students in qualifying for a study permit.
Regional Variation: The reduction in study permits is anticipated to be more significant in Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia, potentially resulting in heightened competition for students interested in these provinces.
Additional Documentation: Starting January 22, 2024, along with the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and proof of funds, obtaining an attestation letter from the specific province or territory becomes mandatory for study permit applications.
Longer Processing Times: Provinces and territories have until March 31, 2024, to set up processes for attestation letters. This might result in longer processing times and potential delays for students applying for the summer intake in 2024.
Exemption of Study Permit Cap on Different Student Categories
A. International students in Quebec are unaffected, as they were already required to submit a Quebec Acceptance Certificate for study permit approval.
B. Existing study permit holders seeking extensions in Canada are unaffected by the study permit cap introduced for applications after January 22, 2024.
C. Master’s or doctoral students pursuing graduate degrees are exempt from federal and provincial study permit caps, with these restrictions exclusively targeting undergraduate programs offered by Canadian colleges and universities.
2. Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility
PGWP is an open work permit for international students completing eligible study programs in Canada. Previously, most students who completed Canadian study programs longer than eight months were eligible for PGWPs.
Starting September 1, 2024, a significant change unfolds as graduates of study programs offered by public-private partnership (PPP) institutions under curriculum licensing agreements will no longer qualify for PGWPs upon graduation.
Reasons Behind the Exclusion of PPP Institution Graduates
Under curriculum licensing arrangements, private colleges deliver a curriculum created by an associated public college. However, these institutions face relatively less regulatory oversight. The Canadian government has accused some PPP institutions of providing inadequate educational value to international students. As a strict response, these measures have been implemented to safeguard the education system and international students from entities exploiting them for significant profits.
Another notable change in the PGWP program involves master’s degree program graduates becoming eligible for a three-year work permit. Unlike the previous structure, where the PGWP duration aligned with the length of the study program, this change provides master’s graduates with an extended timeframe to accumulate Canadian work experience, enhancing their eligibility for PR programs.
Impact of changes to PGWP
Canada modifies the PGWP program to increase its efficacy. Through the PGWP program, Canada is able to retain highly qualified graduates from its schools and institutions, which boosts the country’s economy and labor market. The changes are intended to guarantee that foreign students who meet the requirements for PGWPs have the skills required to succeed in the Canadian labor market and to encourage Canadian educational institutions to improve the standard of instruction they offer to students.
Changes to the PGWP program aim to ensure that qualifying international students possess the necessary qualifications for success in the Canadian job market, encouraging academic institutions to enhance the quality of education they provide. Also, with the gained Canadian work experience, it becomes easier for students to qualify for PR programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
3. Longer PGWPs for Master’s Graduates
Starting February 15, 2024, a significant change takes place. This change involves providing a more extended post-graduation work permit (PGWP) for three years. It applies specifically to graduates from master’s degree programs that are less than two years long. They must, however, fulfill all other requirements for PGWP eligibility. Furthermore, graduates of master’s degree programs are eligible for a three-year PGWP, even if the program lasted less than two years. The duration of the PGWP has been adjusted by the government to allow participants to gain the required Canadian work experience in order to qualify for permanent residence.
4. Revised Cost-of-Living standards
Starting January 1, 2024, international students must meet an increased cost of living requirement of CAD 20,635 (previously CAD 10,000), excluding tuition fees. In Quebec, the minimum proof of financial support is CAD 15,078, except for students under 18, who must show access to at least CAD 7,541.
For those applying for a Canadian study permit on or after January 1, 2024, it is essential to provide sufficient proof of financial support to meet the revised cost of living standards. Remember, as an international student, you do not pay these funds to the IRCC or your academic institution; you only need to have this money available for your living expenses during your studies.
Changes to Increase Support for International Students
Implementing an increase in the cost of living requirement aims to present a more accurate reflection of students’ living expenses in Canada.
This adjustment ensures that international students have ample funds to cover necessities during their stay. The cost of living requirements will undergo annual revisions.
Previously, reports surfaced about international students facing financial challenges in Canada. All these measures are taken to ease financial burdens and support international students in focusing more on their studies.
5. Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Eligibility Changes
Spouses of international students enrolled in a full-time study program were eligible for SOWPs until 2023. However, a change is underway, restricting open work permits under section C42 to spouses of master’s and doctoral students and those in professional programs like law and medicine. Regrettably, spouses of international students enrolled in undergraduate and other college programs will no longer qualify for open work permits.
The recently imposed annual study permit restrictions for international students in Canada may increase competition for admissions and permits. However, this shift ensures government support for improving the quality of education for international students. Modifications to the PGWP and open work permit programs simplify job opportunities for foreign talents in Canada, guaranteeing Canadian employers access to high-caliber candidates. Furthermore, although a higher cost of living requirement may prompt incoming students to reassess their budget, clarity on their realistic financial needs supports the long term. All these initiatives bolster international student programs, highlighting the Canadian government’s commitment to enriching education and fostering a vibrant global community.
