The federal government in Canada announced the introduction of new regulations to maintain the integrity of the international student program in Canada, in addition to setting a maximum limit on applications for foreign student permits.
Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Mark Miller, has announced a two-year maximum for applications for international student permits in Canada and other measures for a sustainable program of education in Canada.
Maximum limits for international student permits in Canada
The Canadian government, led by the Minister of Immigration, imposes a two-year cap on international student permits to control growth. The 2024 cap would reduce new study permits by 35%.
Through this new grant, the government aims to achieve a balance between the benefits of international students in Canada and the need for sustainable growth, reaching approximately 360,000 thousand foreign students.
Regional quotas for foreign students in Canada
The Canadian government also opted to set admission quotas for international students based on provinces and territories' population sizes.
The government devised this strategy to better regulate growth in places with a disproportionately high number of international students.
Exemptions and renewals
The cap also excludes students pursuing master's, doctorate, and K-12 education programs, and it has no effect on current permit holders or renewals.
The government ensures continuity for current students and those enrolled in advanced study programs by issuing exemptions and renewing them.
Attestation letter requirements
Starting January 22, all new study permit applications must include a letter of certification from the appropriate province or territory. This is part of the government's strategy to improve the management and distribution of international students throughout Canada.
Work permit modifications after graduation
There are changes being made concerning work permit eligibility. Students on curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer be eligible for post-graduation work permits beginning September 2024. Masters and short postgraduate program graduates, on the other hand, will be eligible for a three-year work permit.