On September 18, 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced critical updates to Canada’s temporary residence programs. The changes include a stricter cap on study permits, updates to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, and new eligibility rules for spousal work permits.
Key Changes to the International Student Program
Study Permit Caps: Starting in 2025, the number of study permits issued will be capped at 437,000—a 10% reduction from 2024’s 485,000 permits. This cap will remain stable through 2026, representing a shift in the federal government's efforts to control the intake of international students. According to the government, this change could result in 300,000 fewer study permits issued over the next few years, reflecting the need to balance infrastructure demands with labor market needs.
Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL): Master’s and PhD students are now required to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) as part of their study permit applications. These letters will serve as verification of the student’s application’s legitimacy, ensuring that they are enrolled in recognized programs. Approximately 12% of study permit allocations will be reserved for master’s and doctoral students, recognizing their long-term contribution to the Canadian labor market.
Updates to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility
In a bid to align immigration policies with the needs of the Canadian labor market, the government has updated the eligibility requirements for PGWPs:
Language Proficiency Requirements: Effective November 1, 2024, applicants must meet a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score—CLB 7 for university graduates and CLB 5 for college graduates. This change aims to improve the adaptability of international graduates and better align with labor market requirements.
Sector-Specific Eligibility: PGWPs will prioritize graduates of programs tied to in-demand sectors of the economy. This ensures that the skills of international graduates are directed toward areas experiencing persistent labor shortages.
Restricting Spousal Open Work Permits
The government has also introduced new restrictions on Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP):
For International Students: SOWP eligibility will be limited to the spouses of master’s and PhD students whose programs are at least 16 months long. This change, expected to result in 50,000 fewer SOWPs issued over the next three years, aims to streamline work permit approvals and focus on highly skilled workers.
For Foreign Workers: In the future, only spouses of foreign workers employed in management or professional occupations, or those in sectors facing labor shortages, will qualify for SOWPs under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and International Mobility Program (IMP).
Conclusion
The introduction of stricter caps on study permits and new eligibility requirements for work permits reflects Canada’s evolving immigration landscape. These changes emphasize the need for international students and foreign workers to stay informed and adaptable. At Immigrative Visa Services Inc., we are committed to guiding you through these updates with clarity and precision. Whether you are navigating study permit applications or work permit eligibility, our expert team is here to offer personalized advice and solutions to help you achieve your goals in Canada. Schedule a consultation today to stay ahead.
Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized advice regarding your specific immigration situation, it is recommended to consult with an authorized immigration professional.
About the Author:
This blog post is authored by Hossein Alavi, RCIC, a seasoned Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant and the founder and CEO of Immigrative Visa Services Inc. and EduPal Canada. With over ten years of experience in the education and immigration sectors, he is dedicated to assisting individuals and companies with their Canadian immigration needs. Contact Immigrative Visa Services Inc. today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward achieving your Canadian aspirations.
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