Major Changes for International Students and Post-Graduation Work Permits in Canada: 2024 Year in Review

Canada witnessed significant updates to its international student programs and Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) in 2024. These changes reflect the government’s goal to manage the growing number of temporary residents. This blog breaks down these updates in simple terms for international students and their families.

Key Updates in 2024:

• New PGWP Eligibility Rules
• Increased Cost of Living Requirements
• Closure of SDS and NSE Programs
• Caps on Study Permits
• Stricter Rules for Study Permits
• Revised Off-Campus Work Hour Limits
• Changes to Spousal Open Work Permits
  
  

Detailed Breakdown of the Changes

1. PGWP Eligibility Updates

• Curriculum Licensing Agreements:
  As of May 15, international students in programs offered through private colleges linked to public colleges (curriculum licensing agreements) are no longer eligible for PGWPs.
• Three-Year PGWP for Master’s Graduates:
  Master’s degree graduates are now eligible for a three-year PGWP, regardless of the program length. This policy, effective February 15, provides more time for work experience and pathways to permanent residency.
• Language Requirements for PGWP:
  From November 1, PGWP applicants must meet specific language benchmarks:
• CLB 7 for university graduates.
• CLB 5 for college graduates.
• Field of Study Restrictions:
  Starting November 1, college and vocational program graduates must study in fields linked to long-term labor shortages to qualify for a PGWP. Eligible fields include:
• Agriculture
• Healthcare
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
• Trades
• Transport
  
  

2. Increased Cost of Living Requirements

From January 1, the minimum funds required for a single applicant increased from $10,000 to $20,635, on top of tuition and travel costs. This change affects all study permit applications submitted from this date onward.

3. Closure of SDS and NSE Programs

On November 8, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) programs were discontinued. These programs had previously expedited study permit applications but were closed to streamline processing times across all applicants.

4. Caps on Study Permit Applications

To manage numbers, a cap was placed on study permits in 2024, with a target of 360,000 approved new permits—a 35% drop from 2023. By 2025, this will reduce further to 437,000 permits.

5. Stricter Study Permit Rules

• Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs):
  Since January 22, study permit applications require a PAL from the province or territory confirming a credible admission. Exceptions apply to certain groups like primary/secondary students or those already in Canada.
• Changing Schools:
  Starting November 15, students must apply for a new study permit if they transfer to another institution. Some exceptions allow students to start their new program while waiting for their permit.
  
  

6. Updated Off-Campus Work Hours

The temporary removal of work-hour limits during the pandemic ended in 2024.

• From November 15, students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while classes are in session.
  
  

7. Changes to Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP)

Eligibility for spousal open work permits has been limited:

• Only spouses of master’s or doctoral students in programs of at least 16 months are eligible.
• Exceptions exist for specific undergraduate programs, such as nursing, law, or engineering.
  
  

What Do These Changes Mean for You?

These updates highlight the need for careful planning when pursuing studies in Canada. The government’s tighter rules aim to balance the country’s resources and manage temporary resident numbers.

If you’re an international student or considering studying in Canada, consult an immigration expert to navigate these changes and understand your options.