The landscape of international education in Canada is undergoing a significant shift, as the government introduces measures to safeguard the integrity of the international student system. Today, The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced pivotal changes aimed at stabilizing the number of international students in Canada.
Intake Cap on International Student Permit Applications
To address concerns about unsustainable growth, the Government of Canada will implement a two-year intake cap on international student permit applications, commencing in 2024. This cap is expected to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, marking a 35% decrease from 2023. Provinces and territories will play a crucial role in this process, with individual caps established based on population size.
Study permit renewals, master’s and doctoral programs, as well as elementary and secondary education, are exempt from this cap. The existing study permit holders will not be affected. The allocation of the cap to provinces and territories will be managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), requiring an attestation letter from each province or territory for every study permit application.
These measures will be reviewed at the end of 2025, ensuring a dynamic response to the evolving needs of international students.
Changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program
In a bid to align the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program with evolving educational landscapes, changes in eligibility criteria will come into effect on September 1, 2024:
- International students in curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer be eligible for post-graduation work permits.
- Graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will now be eligible for a 3-year work permit, providing increased opportunities for gaining valuable work experience.
- Open work permits will be restricted to spouses of international students in master’s and doctoral programs.
These adjustments aim to address concerns related to oversight and eligibility, ensuring that the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program remains a valuable pathway for international students seeking post-study opportunities.
Path Forward and Recognition for Excellence
While these changes mark a significant moment in the international education landscape, the Government of Canada emphasizes its commitment to working with provinces, territories, and educational stakeholders to develop a sustainable path forward for international students. This includes finalizing a recognized institution framework, determining long-term sustainable levels of international students, and ensuring adequate student housing.
