IRCC Announces Further Changes to Canada’s International Student Program Feedback
On September 18, 2024, the Canadian government shared important updates regarding the International Student Program. These changes will affect study permit caps for 2025 and 2026, as well as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program.
Changes to Study Permit Caps:
Here’s a summary of the key updates:
- 2025 Cap Reduction: The cap for study permits in 2025 will decrease by 10% from the previous year, limiting the number of permits issued to 437,000. This includes all types of study permits and extensions.
- 2026 Cap: The cap for 2026 will remain the same as the 2025 cap, continuing at 437,000 permits.
- Projected Impact: Over the next three years, these changes could result in about 300,000 fewer international study permits being issued.
- Provincial Attestation Letters: Master’s and PhD students, who were previously exempt from the cap, will now need to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) with their study permit applications. A new “Graduate Provincial Attestation Letter” will be introduced for these students, with about 12% of study permits reserved for them, recognizing their contributions to the Canadian workforce.
- K-12 Students: Students in kindergarten through grade 12 will still be exempt from the cap.
Changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program:
The government also announced adjustments to the PGWP program to better meet Canada’s labor market needs:
- Current Students: While specific changes for current students weren’t detailed, the government assured that the upcoming adjustments will address challenges faced by the international education sector. More announcements about the PGWP are expected this fall, but no immediate changes to eligibility for current international students have been confirmed.
- Language Proficiency Requirement: Starting November 1, 2024, all PGWP applicants must show a minimum language proficiency in either French or English. This will help them transition to permanent residency and adapt to the job market. The requirements are Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 for university graduates and CLB level 5 for college graduates.
Implications for International Students:
These changes present both challenges and opportunities for international students.
- Understanding the Cap Reduction: With fewer study permits available, competition for spots in Canadian schools will increase. Prospective students need to prepare their applications carefully and submit them early to boost their chances of getting accepted.
- Navigating the PAL Process: Graduate students will now need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) when applying. Students should be proactive in obtaining these letters and understand what each province requires, especially if they are pursuing a Master’s or PhD.
- Improving Language Skills: The new language requirements for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) mean that students will need to work on their language proficiency. Many schools offer courses and resources to help students reach the necessary levels, so taking advantage of these can be helpful.
- Career Opportunities: Even with the cap reduction, the reserved permits for graduate students show that advanced degrees are highly valued in Canada’s job market. Graduates can expect to find good job opportunities, particularly in fields that need skilled workers.
- Planning for the Future: Students should think about their long-term goals in Canada. It’s important to understand the routes to permanent residency and how the PGWP fits into those plans, which will help in making smart decisions about their education and careers.
Conclusion:
These changes mark significant updates to Canada’s International Student Program, impacting both new and current international students. As these adjustments unfold, HFE IMMIGRATION PVT LTD is here to assist you in navigating this evolving landscape. Our team can provide resources, guidance, and support to help you understand and adapt to these changes.
