Canada Study Permit Cap 2024: Key Updates for International Students

On January 22, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced major updates to the international student system to maintain its integrity and address challenges caused by the rapid growth of international student numbers. The surge has reportedly strained housing, healthcare, and other essential services in Canada. The Canada study permit cap introduces several important changes:

1. Canada Study Permit Cap for 2024

• The Government of Canada will cap new study permit applications for a period of two years.

• For 2024, the cap allows approximately 360,000 study permits, a 35% decrease compared to 2023.

• This cap does not affect current study permit holders or students renewing their permits.

• Students in master’s, doctoral, and elementary/secondary programs are exempt from the cap.

2. Provincial and Territorial Allocation

• IRCC will allocate portions of the cap to each province and territory based on population.

• Provinces can distribute permits among their designated learning institutions, addressing uneven growth in international student populations.

3. Attestation Letters Requirement

• Starting January 22, 2024, all study permit applications must include an attestation letter from the relevant province or territory.

• This ensures that students receive adequate support and institutions maintain high standards.

• Provinces and territories are expected to have issuance processes ready by March 31, 2024.

4. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes

• Curriculum licensing arrangement programs will no longer be eligible for PGWP starting September 1, 2024.

• Graduates of master’s and short graduate programs will now be eligible for a 3-year work permit, regardless of program length.

5. Spousal Work Permit Changes

• Open work permits will be limited to spouses of students in master’s and doctoral programs.

• Spouses of students in other programs will no longer qualify for open work permits.

6. Complementary Measures and Reforms

• These changes aim to protect and support international students, ensuring access to necessary resources.

• The measures also alleviate pressures on Canadian services and maintain stability in student numbers.

7. Future Developments

• The government plans to create clear pathways to permanent residence for students with in-demand skills.

• Targeted pilots in 2024 will support underrepresented international student groups.

8. Other Recent Measures

• Since December 1, 2023, designated post-secondary institutions must confirm every letter of acceptance with IRCC to prevent fraud.

• Starting January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living requirement for study permit applicants has been updated to better reflect actual living costs in Canada.

These Canada Study Permit Cap changes reflect the Canadian government’s commitment to ensuring that international students positively contribute to Canada’s social, cultural, and economic growth, while maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the country’s education and immigration systems.

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