Review 2024| Changes in Student Permit Canada
Navigating the changing landscape of student permit Canada is essential for aspiring international students in 2024. Recent updates to Canada’s study and work programs, including stricter eligibility criteria for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs), higher cost-of-living requirements, and caps on study permit applications, have reshaped the process. With the closure of expedited application streams like the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and new rules governing off-campus work hours and spousal open work permits, understanding these changes is crucial for those planning to study and work in Canada. These adjustments aim to align with Canada’s broader immigration policies while addressing long-term labor market needs.
Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs):
Eligibility Updates of Student Permits Canada
Students in programs linked to curriculum licensing agreements (e.g., partnerships between private and public colleges) are no longer eligible for PGWPs from May 15.
Master’s degree graduates are now eligible for a 3-year PGWP, even for programs shorter than three years, starting February 15.
From November 1, applicants must meet specific language benchmarks: CLB 7 for university graduates and CLB 5 for college graduates.
Students must graduate in fields experiencing long-term labor shortages, like healthcare, STEM, trades, and agriculture, to qualify for PGWPs (exceptions apply for university graduates).
Cost of Living Requirement of Canada for Students
Starting January 1, study permit applicants must prove they have $20,635 (up from $10,000) for living expenses, in addition to tuition and travel costs.
Closure of Student Application Programs:
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) were closed on November 8, affecting expedited study permit applications for students from countries like India, China, and Nigeria.
Cap on Study Permits:
Canada introduced a cap, allowing around 360,000 new study permits in 2024—a 35% reduction from 2023. This is part of the government’s goal to manage temporary resident numbers.
Stricter Study Permit Rules:
Students now require a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) to confirm admission and account for the new study permit caps.
From November 15, students changing schools must apply for a new study permit (previously, they could update their account without a new permit).
Off-Campus Work Hours:
The temporary unlimited work hours policy ended. Starting November 15, students can work up to 24 hours/week off-campus during academic sessions (up from the pre-pandemic 20 hours/week limit).
Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs):
Eligibility is now limited to spouses of international students in specific programs: master’s, doctoral, and certain professional undergraduate programs (e.g., medicine, law, engineering).
New restrictions on SOWPs for spouses of students in shorter master’s programs (under 16 months) are expected to take effect soon.
These changes reflect Canada’s efforts to balance immigration targets, address labor market needs, and manage the influx of temporary residents.