Changes in Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, 2024
In 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada will see the following major changes:
Study Permit Cap: In 2024, Canada will cap the number of new international student licenses it issues at 360,000, a 35% drop from 2023. The two-year cap will be in effect.
Provincial Allocation: Based on population, the intake cap will be divided among the provinces and territories; the areas with the most unsustainable growth will see the biggest reductions.
Exclusions from the Cap: Those pursuing Master's and Doctoral degrees, as well as those working in elementary and secondary education, are exempt from the cap, and it will not affect study permit renewals.
Provincial Attestation letter (PAL): As of January 22, 2024, applications for study permits must contain an attestation letter from the relevant province or territory. As of March 31, 2024, the procedures for obtaining these letters must be established.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Program Changes:
Starting September 1, 2024, students in curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer be eligible for post-graduation work permits.
Master’s degree graduates will be eligible for a 3-year work permit, regardless of the program length.
Spouse work permits: Open work permits will only be granted to the spouses of Bachelors of Nursing, Bachelors of Education, Bachelors of Engineering, Master's and Doctoral students; spouses of students enrolled in other study levels will not be eligible.
Prospective Evaluations and Cooperation: After re-evaluating the policies at the end of 2024, the government will collaborate with interested parties to create a viable plan of action that includes building a framework for recognized institutions and ensuring there is enough housing for students.
Result: Lower Approval Rates for Post-Secondary Study Permits in Canada: The IRCC processed more than 152,000 post-secondary study permits between January and April 2024. Moreover, 76,000 of them were accepted. The total approval rate is 50%, which is eight percentage points less than the average for 2023 and five percentage points less than the average for 2022, which is 55%:
