To adapt to the evolving global landscape, these new measures will be implemented as temporary changes, spanning a period of two years (2024 – 2026). This timeframe allows for the assessment of the effectiveness of the alterations and provides an opportunity to make further adjustments if necessary.

Starting January 22, 2024, every study permit application submitted to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will require an additional attestation letter from a province or territory. While this may introduce an extra step in the application process, it serves as a means to enhance the verification process and establish a connection between the federal and provincial authorities. Each province or territory is actively working on developing processes to issue these attestation letters, with the goal of having them in place by March 31, 2024. As more details become available from each region, the IRCC will provide updates on its website

 

Effective September 1, 2024, the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program will undergo significant modifications. Students embarking on a study program within a curriculum licensing arrangement will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit upon graduation. This decision aims to address concerns about oversight and potential misuse of this permit category. Additionally, graduates of master’s degree programs will now have the opportunity to apply for a 3-year work permit, offering them a more extended period to gain valuable work experience and potentially transition to permanent residence.

Another key change involves the availability of open work permits for the spouses of international students. Beginning with the new regulations, open work permits will only be accessible to spouses of international students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs. Unfortunately, spouses of students in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible for this benefit. This adjustment seeks to strike a balance between encouraging high-skilled immigration and maintaining control over the associated benefits.

 

 

As Canada positions itself as a welcoming destination for international students, these regulatory changes underscore the country’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent immigration system. While these alterations may initially present challenges, they are designed to create a more secure and streamlined process for international students seeking to pursue their education and career goals in Canada.