Canada is known for its diverse and inclusive communities, and international students play a crucial role in enriching our social, cultural, and economic landscape. However, recent challenges have led the government to implement measures to safeguard the integrity of the international student system and address issues related to unsustainable growth.
In this article, we will break down the key announcements made by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, on January 22, 2024, and provide essential information for current and prospective international students.
Changes to Canada's International Student Program in 2024
Stabilizing Growth
To address the threats to the international student system, the government is implementing a two-year plan to stabilize the number of international students in Canada. The intake cap for 2024 is set at approximately 360,000 approved study permits, representing a 35% decrease from 2023. This move aims to ensure sustainable population growth and alleviate pressures on housing, healthcare, and other services.
Provincial and Territorial Caps
In the spirit of fairness, individual provincial and territorial caps have been established, weighted by population. Provinces with unsustainable growth will experience more significant decreases. Study permit renewals, master's and doctoral degrees, and elementary and secondary education are excluded from the cap, ensuring minimal impact on current students.
Implementation Process
The government will allocate the cap to each province and territory, which will then distribute it among their designated learning institutions. Starting January 22, 2024, every study permit application submitted to IRCC will require an attestation letter from the respective province or territory. Provinces and territories are expected to establish a process for issuing these letters by March 31, 2024.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Program Changes
To better align with the changes in the International Student Program, the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program will be adjusted. Starting September 1, 2024, international students in curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer be eligible. However, graduates of master's degree programs will soon be eligible for a 3-year work permit, providing more time to gain valuable work experience.
Spousal Work Permits
Effective immediately, 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 will no longer be eligible.
Reassessing in 2025
These temporary measures will be in place for two years, with a reassessment of new study permit applications in 2025. During this period, the government will collaborate with provinces, territories, and education stakeholders to develop a sustainable path forward for international students.
Note: It's important to note that current study permit holders and new students with valid study permits for Spring 2024 will not be affected by the announced reforms. Additionally, study permit renewals will not be impacted, providing assurance for current students seeking to apply for a second program in Spring 2024.
Conclusion
These changes aim to strike a balance between supporting genuine students and safeguarding the integrity of Canada's immigration system. As the government works towards a sustainable path for international students, it remains committed to providing clear pathways to permanent residence for students with in-demand skills and exploring new measures to enhance the overall student experience in Canada. [LEARN MORE]