Canada's Evolving Policies: Landscape for International Students

Canada is a top study destination for international students. However, the Canadian government recently announced some new student visa regulations for 2024. As per the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), "International students make important contributions to Canada’s campuses, communities and economy; however, we have seen unsustainable growth in the International Student Program in recent years." Furthermore, "these recently announced reforms will support sustainable population growth in Canada and improve system integrity while helping to ensure that international students have a positive experience in Canada."  Therefore, if you are planning on studying in Canada, it is important to know that there are some changes to your study permit.

2-year Cap on International Students‍

Canada has already set a 2-year cap on international students and is further taking measures to reduce the number to promote sustainable population growth in the nation. The federal government has set a temporary ceiling of 360,000 study permits for international students in 2024, which is expected to drop by 35% over 2023. The final cap will be set for 2025 at the end of the year. In addition, several private institutions have been taking in more international students in an effort to increase their revenue without raising admission or curriculum standards. The new study permit cap aims to provide the Canadian government with a window of opportunity to establish a trusted institutions framework that will incentivise (Designated Learning Institutions) DLIs to maintain a high level of education and help root out malpractice in the education industry.

‍Modified Duration for the Post-Graduation Work Permit‍

The Canadian International student news states that the duration for the post-graduation work permit has been revised in the nation. This will give students a chance to increase their work stay and will help them get better opportunities in the Canadian job market. This will also help one acquire enough work experience that will help them increase their chances of getting permanent residency in the nation. 
Additionally, as per the Canadian post-graduation work permit news, those who are graduating from master’s programs that last less than 2 years will be eligible for an extended 3-year post-graduate work permit. However, it is required for them to meet the PGWP eligibility criteria. 

Evaluation of PGWP Eligibility in Public-Private College Partnerships

International students who begin their studies in private colleges that offer licensed curriculum on or before September 1, 2024, will no longer be eligible for post-graduate work permits. As per the Canadian education news, some provinces have allowed public institutions to license their curriculum for delivering it through private colleges. Additionally, in these cases, students get a diploma degree from a public institution however, physically, they attend private colleges for education. 
The Auditor General of Ontario has already shown concern over this collaboration as it hampers the program quality and student services. IRCC has limited the PGWP for such institutions to ensure that without the option to apply, it will further cut down the enrollment of international students in the nation.  Moreover,  master's graduates in Canada who have completed their programs in the past will soon be eligible for three-year post-secondary work permits. 

‍Changes in Spousal Open Work Permit eligibility

As per Section C42,  spousal open work permits will only be available to spouses of international students who are enrolled in master's, doctoral, or professional programs. Until 2023, Open Work Permits (OWPs) were only granted to spouses of Canadian students enrolled in full-study Canadian programs. Open Work Permits for Spouses of International Students Enrolled in Undergraduate and Other College Programs

‍Change in Cost of Living Requirement

The cost of living for international students in Quebec has been increased from CAD$10,000 to CAD$20,635, excluding tuition fees, as of January 1, 2024. The minimum amount of proof of financial support required to study in Quebec is CAD$15,078, except for international students under 18 who will need to provide proof of access to at least CAD$7,541. International students applying for Canadian study permits on or after 1 January 2024 will need to provide enough proof of financial support in order to meet the revised requirement. Keep in mind that international students do not have to pay the IRCC or their academic institution. They just need to have enough money available to cover their living expenses during their studies.

In conclusion, Canada's evolving policies regarding international students reflect a concerted effort to ensure sustainable population growth while maintaining the integrity of the immigration system and enhancing the overall experience for international students in the country. If you want to stay updated on news related to student housing, then follow amber for more such information.