Are you an international student planning to move to Canada in 2024?
The Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, Marc Miller, announced on January 22 a series of measures to stabilize the influx of international students over the next two years.
Recently, the Canadian government implemented an intake cap on international student permit applications. For 2024, the cap is set at approximately 360,000 approved study permits, which represents a 35% reduction from the previous year.
Understanding these recent changes in Canadian immigration policies is crucial for international students. In this blog post, we will guide you through all the important updates you need to know about as an international student.
Provincial Attestation Letter Requirement
Starting January 22, 2024, new post-secondary international students must include a Provincial Attestation Letter with their study permit application. This letter serves as proof of being included in a provincial or territorial allocation within the national cap. It’s important to note that missing this letter could result in your application being rejected, so it’s essential to understand who needs it and who doesn’t.
Who Needs a Provincial Attestation Letter?
- Most college and undergraduate-level study permit applicants
- Those enrolled in non-degree granting graduate programs
Who Doesn’t Need a Provincial Attestation Letter?
- Primary and secondary school students
- Master’s or doctoral degree students
- Visiting or exchange students
- In-Canada study permit and work permit holders (includes study permit holders applying for an extension)
- In-Canada family members of study permit or work permit holders
- Students whose applications were received before 8:30 a.m. ET on January 22, 2024,
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Update for Master’s Degree Graduates
Starting February 15, 2024, graduates from master’s degree programs lasting less than two years will be eligible for a longer, 3-year PGWP. This change aims to support graduates in gaining Canadian work experience for permanent residence.
Who Benefits from a Longer PGWP?
- Graduates of master’s degree programs lasting less than 2 years
- Graduates of programs lasting at least two years at PGWP-eligible designated learning institutions
- PGWP Eligibility for Public-Private Partnership College Programs
Recent concerns about education quality and oversight have led to changes in PGWP eligibility for public-private partnership college programs. While current students remain eligible, new enrollees may not qualify for a post-graduation work permit.
Who is Eligible for a PGWP after Graduating from a Public-Private Partnership College Program?
International students currently enrolled will remain eligible for a PGWP if they meet other program eligibility criteria.
Who is Not Eligible for a PGWP after Graduating from a Public-Private Partnership College Program?
New students enrolling in this type of program will not be eligible for a post-graduation work permit.
The Bottom Line
International students aiming to study in Canada in 2024 should be well-versed in the recent immigration policy changes announced by Minister Marc Miller. With a cap set on study permits and new requirements such as the Provincial Attestation Letter, thorough understanding is paramount.
The extension of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for certain master’s degree graduates aims to facilitate their integration into the Canadian workforce. However, changes in PGWP eligibility for public-private partnership college programs necessitate careful consideration of educational choices.
