Canada is dealing with a major rush in international students, and the current government has expressed concerns about the potential consequences of substantial immigration increases on housing affordability.
With population growth surpassing the construction of housing units, the Canadian government has chose to adjust the annual intake of permanent residents.
Addressing the issue of housing affordability has become a significant challenge for the current government.
In response to the challenging situation, Ottawa has chosen to eliminate international students from its plans, particularly those intending to settle after the middle of 2024.
A statement issued by the Canadian Immigration Office said “For 2024, the cap is likely to result in around 360,000 approved study permits”, announcing a cut of 35pc as compared to last year.
Also Read
Canada Students Visa Policy 2024
The Canadian Immigration Minister has assured that the latest changes won’t impact the renewal of study permits. Providing an update for students, he clarified that foreign students aiming for elementary, secondary education, master’s, and doctorate degrees will not be affected by these adjustments.
Additionally, the minister announced that study permit applications submitted to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada will require an attestation letter from the respective province or territory.
Recent changes bring into line the eligibility criteria with the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
According to the update, foreign students starting a study program under a curriculum licensing arrangement from September 2024 won’t qualify for a post-graduation work permit upon completion.
Also Read
It’s important to note that students who finish their graduation or master’s will still be eligible to apply for a 3-year work permit.
In the latest changes, only spouses of international students enrolled in master’s and doctorate programs will qualify for open work permits. Spouses of students in lower-level programs, like undergraduate and college studies, will no longer be eligible.
This policy adjustment aims to address concerns related to oversight in private colleges offering curriculum licensing agreements, which had created a loophole in post-graduation work permit eligibility.
