Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced a two-year cap on international student permits to manage growth.
This cap will limit 2024’s new study permits to around 360,000, reducing intake by 35% from 2023.
The cap varies by province and territory, aiming to address rapid growth in certain areas.
It won’t affect study permit renewals, master’s and doctoral students, primary and secondary students, or existing permit holders.
Starting January 22, 2024, new applications must include a provincial or territorial attestation letter, with processes for these letters to be established by March 31, 2024.
These measures are temporary, with a reassessment planned for the 2025 intake.
The government seeks to develop sustainable strategies for international student admission and improve post-secondary housing.
Furthermore, eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program will change.
From September 1, 2024, students in curriculum licensing programs will be ineligible for post-graduation work permits, addressing the oversight issues in such programs.
Additionally, master’s graduates will be eligible for a 3-year work permit, offering more time to gain work experience and pursue permanent residency.