Canada is a top destination for international students, thanks to its high-quality educational institutions, welcoming society, and opportunities for some to work or immigrate permanently after graduation1. However, the Canadian government has recently announced some significant changes to the study permit and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) requirements.
Here’s an overview of these changes:
Updated Cost-of-Living Requirements
Starting from January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants will be raised1. This change is to ensure that international students are financially prepared for life in Canada. The cost-of-living requirement for study permit applicants has not changed since the early 2000s, when it was set at $10,000 for a single applicant. For 2024, a single applicant will need to show they have $20,635, representing 75% of the low-income cut-off (LICO), in addition to their first year of tuition and travel costs1. This change will apply to new study permit applications received on or after January 1, 2024.
Temporary Reduction in Student Visas Issued
Canada will be issuing a reduced number of student visas over the next two years. The federal government announced a two-year intake cap on study permit applications being approved. It is expected that approximately 360,000 new study permits will be issued to international students in 2024—a 35 per cent decrease compared to 2023. The cap for 2025 will be determined at the end of the year.
The key takeaway? Applications might be more competitive, so ensure yours is strong.
High school, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs are not affected by this limit. So, if you’re aiming for these programs, the application process remains the same.
New Requirement: Attestation Letter
There’s an extra step added to the student visa application process. You’ll now need a letter of approval, or attestation letter, from the province where your chosen school is located. These letters will be available by March 31, 2024, so factor this into your application timeline.
Changes to Work Permits After Graduation
The rules regarding work permits after graduation have seen some adjustments. Starting from September 2024, students graduating from colleges will no longer be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. However, there’s good news for Master’s students! They’ll now be eligible for a longer PGWP, valid for three years after graduation (also starting September 2024).
Work Permits for Spouses of Students
The eligibility for open work permits for spouses of students has also been modified. Now, only spouses of students enrolled in Master’s, Ph.D., or professional programs like medicine and law can apply for open work permits.
Canada Welcomes International Students
Despite these changes, Canada remains a top destination for international students, including Brazilians. The adjustments aim to enhance the quality of Canadian education and manage population growth.
With a vast territory and a population extremely open to cultural diversity, Canada remains one of the main exchange destinations and has no intention of blocking foreigners who wish to study in the country. According to Marc Miller, the changes aim to improve the quality of the country’s educational institutions, as well as slow down population growth in order to combat problems such as rising property prices in Canada. Therefore, these changes should not prevent international students from planning a study path in Canada, making the role of a specialist in international education even more relevant in building a successful journey.
Planning Your Canadian Study Journey
With careful planning, your dream of studying in Canada can still become a reality! Consider seeking guidance from an international education specialist who can help navigate the new application process and ensure your application stands out. They can also advise you on programs not affected by the visa limit and explore alternative work permit options after graduation, if applicable.
Finding a Reputable Mover in Canada
Planning your move to Canada for your studies? Here are some tips for finding a reputable Cross-Country Movers in Canada:
- Research and Compare: Get quotes from several Canadian moving companies. Look for companies licensed by the Canadian Mover’s Association (Canadian Association of Movers, https://www.mover.net/).
- Read Reviews: Check online reviews and customer testimonials to get an idea of the company’s reputation and service quality.
- Services Offered: Consider the services you need, such as packing, unpacking, storage, and insurance. Choose a company that offers the services you require at a competitive price. We recommend Six Movers if you are looking out for a trusted and reliable packer and movers in Canada.
