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New Rules & Regulations in Canada for International Students

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By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Aug 31,2024 03:19 PM IST

Canada has implemented new regulations to control the intake of international students and enhance its immigration system.
Key measures implemented include the study permit cap, attestation letter requirement, and adjusted work limits for international students.
The changes aim to better align international student enrollment with labor market needs and safeguard the well-being of international students in Canada.
The government is committed to upholding the integrity of the immigration system, supporting global students, and securing the sustainability of Canada's education system.

New rules in Canada.webp

Canada has always been a favoured choice among students worldwide who are looking for an excellent education and a friendly atmosphere. However, with new regulations in Canada affecting international students, understanding the changing landscape has never been more important. These adjustments are set to significantly impact the experience and opportunities available to international students studying in Canada.

Whether you're considering applying for a study visa or navigating your academic journey in Canada, these new regulations in Canada will likely influence your plans. As Canada student visa consultants highlight, staying informed and prepared for these regulatory changes is essential for ensuring a smooth academic and professional path in Canada.

New Rules & Regulations for International Students in Canada 2024

In 2024, Canada implemented new rules & regulations for international students. These reforms aim to manage the increasing number of students and housing challenges. The changes include a study permit cap, an attestation letter requirement, and post-graduation work permit (PGWP) program modifications. Therefore, Prospective and current international students should know these regulations before studying in Canada.

new regulations in canada.webp

Temporary Study Permit Cap in Canada

The New rules in Canada have introduced a temporary two-year cap on new international student permits. The application process for international students in Canada has changed for 2024. It now includes a temporary cap on study permits, more financial proof requirements, and post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility adjustments.

The Canadian government, led by Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has set an intake cap on international student permit applications.

This decision, aimed at stabilizing new growth, will be effective for two years starting in 2024.
The cap will lead to around 360,000 approved study permits, a 35% drop from 2023.
This measure targets the rapid increase in international student numbers, especially in provinces with the highest growth rates.
The caps won't apply to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees, nor will they affect existing international students renewing their study permits. Due to a decrease in the number of study permits available, there has been a surge in competition for admission to Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), especially in Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia.
Starting January 22, 2024, every study permit application submitted will require an attestation letter issued by a province or territory, indicating a more rigorous application process.

Due to the temporary cap on Study permits, the Canadian government aims to establish a Trusted Institutions Framework to promote high educational standards and support international students through new regulations. The cap on study permits supports international students academically and in other areas for a sustainable future.

Increased Requirement of Financial Resources

As per the New Rules in Canada, international students wanting to study in Canada Starting January 1, 2024, must show proof of increased financial resources of at least CAD$20,635, in addition to first-year tuition and travel expenses. These regulations aim to ensure students are financially prepared for living costs in Canada and protect them from economic challenges during their studies. The adjustments reflect the evolving economic landscape and living expenses in the country.

New Financial Requirements	Regional Variations
Starting January 1, 2024, the Canadian government will raise the financial requirement for study permit applicants from $10,000 to $20,635. This change aims to better prepare international students for the cost of living in Canada.	The province determines the financial requirements for studying in Quebec. International students in Quebec's learning institutions must show a minimum proof of financial support of $15,078, or $7,541 for those under 18 years.
The threshold is raised because of the increasing living expenses, which have not been accurately measured since the 2000s. The new requirement will be adjusted annually based on updates to the low-income cut-off (LICO) by Statistics Canada.	The province periodically reviews these thresholds to reflect the actual cost of living, ensuring international students have enough funds to stay in Canada.

The financial requirements for studying abroad in Canada have been revised to give students a more accurate understanding of living expenses and financial readiness. This change will greatly impact future international students' financial planning, allowing them to focus on academics without added stress.

Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program

The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP) in Canada is being modified, impacting students in curriculum licensing arrangements. Starting September 1, 2024, these students will no longer qualify for a work permit after graduation. However, master's degree graduates now have the option to apply for a 3-year work permit, giving them more time to gain work experience and possibly become permanent residents.

Eligibility Criteria for PGWP in Canada

Starting September 2024, the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada will change, specifically affecting programs at certain Designated Learning Institutions in Quebec. Check out the eligibility criteria for PGWP in Canada:

Students should verify their DLI's status on the official list to ensure their program qualifies for PGWP. Curriculum licensing agreements between public and private institutions will impact PGWP eligibility.
With a few exceptions, programs delivered by private colleges on behalf of public colleges may not be eligible. However, students starting before May 15, 2024, in a program within the same province may still qualify for PGWP if they meet all other requirements.

Duration & Conditions for PGWP in Canada

Uncover the details of the PGWP, such as duration and conditions, essential for current international students, recent graduates, and those considering studying in Canada.

The validity of a Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can range from 8 months to a maximum of 3 years, depending on the length of the completed study program.'
Master's degree graduates now have a three-year work permit, allowing them more time to gain Canadian work experience and increase their chances of getting PR.
The PGWP is an open work permit allowing holders to work in Canada for any employer without needing a job offer
To qualify for a PGWP, students need to complete an 8-month program at an eligible institution and maintain full-time student status.

Extended Part-Time Working Hours in Canada

Understanding Canadian regulations on extended part-time working hours is crucial for international students. These regulations significantly impact off-campus work opportunities and the financial aspects of their education in Canada.

Details of the Extension

The Canadian government has temporarily increased off-campus work hours for certain international students. If IRCC receives an international student's application for a study permit extension after December 7, 2023, they can work more than 20 hours per week until the expiry date of their extended study permit or until April 30, 2024, whichever is earlier. Eligible students include those who are:

Full-time study permit holders at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), or part-time if it's their final academic semester.
Students with expired study permits who are still maintaining their status can continue studying full-time at a designated learning institution (DLI) or part-time in their final semester.
Approved for a study permit but has not yet arrived in Canada.
To qualify, students in Canada or who re-entered Canada by April 30, 2024, must meet specific conditions on their study permit for off-campus work.

Implications for Students

The extension of working hours for international students carries significant implications.

Starting in Fall 2024, students can work up to 24 hours per week during term time.
The adjustment from 20 to 24 hours per week allows students to work three shifts instead of two, potentially increasing their income.
This change is helpful for students in provinces like Ontario, where a minimum-wage job could earn them around $2000 extra income during the school year.

The Immigration Minister emphasises that this policy balances academic performance with employment. Starting May 1, 2024, the temporary policy for full-time off-campus work will end. The standard cap of 20 hours per week during academic sessions will be reinstated unless alternative work authorization is held.

Spouse Work Permits

New changes to Canada's international student program impact spousal open work permits (SOWPs). From January 22, 2024, SOWPs will no longer be available for spouses of undergraduate and college students, except for those in specific professional degree programs.

Understanding these changes is very important for international students who plan to study in Canada, especially for those who want to know if their spouses are eligible for work permits. This greatly impacts the opportunities available to their families while they are studying in Canada.
Shift from Open to Closed Work Permits
Recent updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have changed eligibility requirements for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP).
Open work permits for spouses of international students will now be limited to those in master's and doctoral programs. This change is intended to address system challenges and align the provision for spouses with Canada's academic competitiveness and economic needs.
The New Regulations in Canada specify that spouses of students in certain professional degree programs at universities in Canada, such as Doctor of Dental Surgery, Bachelor of Law, Doctor of Medicine, and several others, will also be eligible for SOWP.
These changes aim to address the system's volume and integrity challenges, ensuring that the provision for spouses aligns more closely with Canada's academic competitiveness and economic needs.

How to Apply for Post Graduation Work Permit in Canada?

The PGWP application process for international students in Canada has changed in 2024. Master's degree graduates will now be eligible for a three-year work permit, but some programs no longer qualify. These changes affect the application process and post-graduation work permit eligibility for international students studying in Canada.

Eligibility Documentation	Applicants must provide documentation proving their relationship to the student and their enrollment in a qualifying program. This includes a valid Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution, proof of enrollment, or transcripts from the student's current program.
Conditions for Approval	The student must have a valid study permit, be eligible for a PGWP, and be enrolled full-time at a recognized institution, including public post-secondary schools, private college-level schools in Quebec, and Canadian private schools authorized to grant degrees.
Alternative Options for Ineligible Spouses	Spouses and partners who are ineligible under the new SOWP criteria can apply for other types of work permits or a visitor visa. Visitor visa holders in Canada are prohibited from working.

The streamlined process emphasizes the need for accurate documentation that reflects the current study situation of international students. The SOWP program changes aim to attract and keep international talent in Canada, promote family reunification, and offer opportunities for spouses to contribute to the Canadian economy.

Conclusion

New regulations in Canada have been implemented to enhance the international education system, including higher financial requirements and revised work and spouse permit guidelines. These changes emphasize the need for students and their families to be prepared and adaptable when studying in Canada. The legislative modifications aim to manage the growing number of international students, maintain educational integrity, and foster economic and social integration.

International students in Canada will receive support for financial readiness, academic eligibility for work after graduation, and spouse work permits. This ensures their personal and professional development, benefiting both themselves and the Canadian community. Students in Canada must understand new regulations to make informed decisions aligned with their academic and career goals.

Connect with study abroad consultants at Canam today to learn more about the new rules & regulations in Canada for international students and how to navigate the application process.

FAQ

What changes are being made to post-graduation work permits for international students in Canada in 2024?

From May 15, 2024, international students enrolling in college programs under public-private curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer be eligible for post-graduation work permits.

What are the 2024 updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)?

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will implement new policies on April 30, 2024. This includes changes to processing Start-up Visa applications and suspending applications for the Self-Employed Persons program from that date.

What are the updated working regulations for international students in Canada in 2024?

The Canadian government will not extend the temporary policy allowing international students to work more than 20 hours a week. From Summer 2024 onwards, international students will be limited to working 20 hours per week during the academic year.

Can international students take online courses and qualify for a post-graduation work permit in Canada in 2024?

International students studying from their home country in the January and May 2024 terms will be eligible for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if they complete at least 50% of their program in Canada and meet all other PGWP criteria. Course delivery options must support these requirements.

Can you explain the new Innovation work permit introduced by Canada in 2024?

Starting April 15, 2024, the Canadian government has introduced a 2-year Innovation work permit through the Global Hypergrowth Project. This permit allows Canadian companies to hire foreign nationals without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

What is the revised Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) in Canada for the year 2024?

From January 1, 2024, the new GIC amount for international students in Canada will be CAD 20,635, compared to the previous amount of CAD 10,000. This change is due to rising living expenses and inflation rates in the country.

Why does the Canadian government limit international student admissions?

The government is addressing the housing situation caused by the growing number of international students studying in Canada.

What is the limit on international students in Canada?

The federal government will cap international study visas for the next two years. In 2024, only 360,000 undergraduate study permits will be approved, which is a 35 percent reduction from 2023.

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New Rules & Regulations in Canada for International Students

Table of Contents

New Rules & Regulations for International Students in Canada 2024

Temporary Study Permit Cap in Canada

Increased Requirement of Financial Resources

Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program

Eligibility Criteria for PGWP in Canada

Duration & Conditions for PGWP in Canada

Extended Part-Time Working Hours in Canada

Details of the Extension

Implications for Students

Spouse Work Permits

How to Apply for Post Graduation Work Permit in Canada?

Conclusion

FAQ

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