Canada has long been a top destination for international students, but 2024 has seen significant policy shifts that are reshaping the landscape. These changes, aimed at addressing economic challenges and optimizing immigration programs, have substantial implications for international students and their prospects in Canada. Here, we delve into the key updates, their rationale, and their broader impacts.
Updated Eligibility Criteria and Regulations for PGWPs
Curriculum Licensing Agreements and PGWPs
On January 22, 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that international students enrolled in programs offered through curriculum licensing agreements would no longer be eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs). Initially set for September, the deadline was moved to May 15, reflecting the urgency of policy enforcement. These agreements, where private colleges offer programs connected to public institutions, had previously provided a pathway to PGWPs.
Three-Year PGWP for Master’s Degree Students
Master’s degree graduates now benefit from three-year work permits, irrespective of program length, effective February 15. This change offers enhanced opportunities for students in shorter programs to gain valuable work experience, aiding their transition to permanent residency.
Language Requirements Introduced
From November 1, PGWP applicants must meet specific Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) standards: CLB 7 for university graduates and CLB 5 for college graduates. This move emphasizes the importance of language proficiency in integrating into Canada’s labor market.
Field of Study Requirements
On September 18, IRCC introduced field-specific criteria for PGWP eligibility. Graduates from fields addressing long-term labor shortages—such as agriculture, healthcare, STEM, trades, and transport—are prioritized. However, this does not apply to university bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs. The policy took full effect on November 1 for new study permit applicants.
Updated Cost of Living Requirement
Starting January 1, 2024, the financial threshold for study permit applicants increased to $20,635, doubling the previous requirement of $10,000. This adjustment reflects rising living costs in Canada and aims to ensure students have adequate resources to sustain themselves.
Closure of the Student Direct Stream and Nigeria Student Express
IRCC discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) on November 8, citing operational inefficiencies and processing disparities. The SDS had expedited study permit processing for students from 14 countries, including India and China, within 20 days. With general processing times now significantly longer, applicants must navigate alternative pathways.
Caps and Stricter Rules for Study Permits
Introduction of Study Permit Caps
In January, IRCC imposed a cap on study permit approvals, targeting approximately 360,000 new permits—a 35% reduction from 2023. This measure aligns with federal objectives to manage temporary resident numbers amid housing and infrastructure pressures. Projections for 2025 indicate further reductions, with a 10% decrease from 2024 levels.
Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs)
Since January 22, most study permit applications require PALs as proof of credible admissions. This rule does not apply to primary and secondary school students, some in-Canada applicants, or pre-approved permits. PALs enhance provincial oversight, ensuring international student enrollment aligns with policy objectives.
Revised Rules for Off-Campus Work Hours
The temporary pandemic policy allowing unlimited off-campus work hours expired on April 29. Pre-pandemic restrictions were reinstated, limiting students to 20 hours per week during academic terms. However, a slight relaxation permits 24 hours weekly from November 15, supporting students’ financial needs while maintaining academic focus.
Updated Regulations for Spousal Open Work Permits
Eligibility for spousal open work permits (SOWPs) has narrowed, focusing on spouses of master’s and doctoral students. Exceptions exist for certain undergraduate professional programs, such as medicine and engineering. Starting September, these permits were further restricted to spouses of master’s students enrolled in programs lasting at least 16 months.
Analyzing the Impacts
Economic and Social Context
The updates reflect Canada’s need to balance the benefits of international education with systemic challenges like housing shortages and labor market integration. By prioritizing fields with labor shortages, the government aims to address critical workforce gaps while ensuring the sustainability of its immigration programs.
Implications for International Students
While some changes, like extended PGWPs for master’s students, are advantageous, others impose stricter requirements that could deter prospective applicants. The cost-of-living adjustment, in particular, may disproportionately impact students from lower-income countries.
Broader Policy Objectives
These measures align with Canada’s broader immigration strategy, emphasizing economic integration, reducing temporary resident numbers, and prioritizing pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers
Canada’s policy changes in 2024 mark a turning point for international students. While they aim to address pressing economic and social challenges, the impacts on student mobility and diversity are yet to unfold fully. Prospective students must stay informed and plan meticulously to navigate this evolving landscape.
