Canada is implementing further reductions to international student intake and tightening work permit rules for both students and their spouses. These changes, aimed at regulating immigration and ensuring sustainable residency programs, will significantly affect international students planning to study in Canada. Let’s explore the key updates that impact study permit holders and work permit eligibility.
Topics Discussed
- Reduction in international study permits for 2025 and 2026
- Work permit restrictions for spouses of international students
- New language requirements for post-graduation work permits (PGWPs)
- Limitations on post-graduation work permit eligibility
Reduction in International Study Permits for 2025 and 2026
Canada is set to reduce the intake of international study permits by 10% in 2025 and 2026, following a previous 35% cut for 2023-2024. This cap will limit study permits to 437,000 for these years. Additionally, Master’s and Doctoral students will now need a provincial or territorial attestation letter to apply.
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Work Permit Restrictions for Spouses of International Students
Work permit eligibility for spouses or common-law partners of international students has been restricted. Only those whose partners are studying in Master’s programs of at least 16 months, Doctoral programs, certain professional degrees, or pilot programs will be eligible for work permits. Spouses of students in undergraduate or shorter Master’s programs will no longer qualify for work permits.
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New Language Requirements for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs)
From November 1, 2024, post-graduation work permit applicants will need to demonstrate language proficiency. University graduates must meet Canada Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 in English or French, while college graduates must meet CLB level 5.
Limitations on PGWP Eligibility
Further changes are expected later this year, which may restrict PGWP eligibility to specific fields of study linked to in-demand occupations. This aligns with Canada’s aim to address long-term labor shortages.
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Conclusion
Canada is taking significant steps to reform its temporary residency and immigration programs. International students and their spouses must remain aware of these changes, including new language requirements and limitations on work permits, to ensure they meet the updated criteria for studying and working in Canada.
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