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Ottawa, January 22, 2024 – Today marks a pivotal moment in Canada’s commitment to shaping a sustainable and enriching educational landscape. The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced transformative measures to address challenges faced by the international student system and ensure a more balanced growth for the years to come.
Background: Ensuring Integrity and Sustainability
International students play a vital role in enhancing the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Canada. However, recent years have seen challenges emerge, threatening the integrity of the system. Some institutions have pursued significant increases in student intakes for financial gains, leading to a strain on resources and inadequate support for newcomers.
Key Measures Unveiled:
1. Intake Cap for 2024:
To address these challenges, the Government of Canada is implementing a two-year plan to stabilize the number of international students. A cap of approximately 360,000 approved study permits for 2024, representing a 35% decrease from the previous year, is set in place. Provincial and territorial caps, weighted by population, ensure fairness, particularly in regions experiencing unsustainable growth.
2. Provincial and Territorial Allocations:
The cap will be distributed among provinces and territories, and each study permit application submitted to IRCC will require an attestation letter from a province or territory. This collaborative approach aims to better manage and distribute the influx of international students across the country.
3. Post-Graduation Work Permit Program Changes:
In alignment with these measures, changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program criteria have been introduced. Notably, starting September 1, 2024, students in curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer be eligible for post-graduation work permits. However, graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will now be eligible for a 3-year work permit, providing greater opportunities for gaining work experience.
4. Spousal Work Permit Adjustments:
In a bid to create greater alignment, open work permits will only be available to spouses of international students in master’s and doctoral programs. This change ensures that spousal work permits are proportionate to the level of study, fostering a more balanced approach.
Two-Year Transition and Collaboration:
These temporary measures will be in effect for two years, allowing the government to reassess new study permit applications in 2025. During this period, collaborative efforts with provinces, territories, learning institutions, and education stakeholders will continue. The focus will be on developing a sustainable framework for international students, finalizing a recognized institution framework, and ensuring post-secondary institutions can meet housing demands.
A Holistic Approach:
These measures, combined with recent reforms, demonstrate Canada’s commitment to supporting genuine students while addressing the challenges associated with unsustainable growth. The goal is to provide the necessary resources for an enriching study experience while alleviating pressures on housing, healthcare, and other services across the nation.
In the face of a rapidly evolving educational landscape, Canada is taking decisive steps to ensure a harmonious and sustainable future for international students. Together, we look forward to welcoming students from around the world to experience the best of Canadian education and culture.