Travel and Tour
Canada Implements Two-Year Cap on International Student Permit Applications
Canada Implements Two-Year Cap on International Student Permit Applications
Canada has recently announced a temporary two-year intake cap on new study permit applications in an effort to stabilize the rapidly growing international student population and ensure that all students receive adequate support for a successful experience. This measure, introduced by Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC), aims to address the increasing pressure on Canadian communities and institutions while recognizing the significant contributions of international students to the country’s social, cultural, and economic fabric.
Key Measures to Stabilize International Student Intake
The Government of Canada will be implementing a cap on international student permit applications, effective immediately and set to span two years. This strategic move is designed to stabilize new growth and protect the interests of both students and Canadian communities.
Canada Cap on Student Permit
1. Intake Cap
In 2024, approximately 360,000 study permits will be approved, representing a 35% decrease from 2023. Individual provincial and territorial caps, weighted by population, will see more significant decreases in areas with unsustainable growth.
2. Focus on Long-Term Sustainability
The cap is a temporary measure alongside continued collaboration with provinces, territories, institutions, and stakeholders to:
Develop a sustainable,, long-term framework for international students.
Establish appropriate student population levels.
Ensure institutions provide adequate student housing.
3. Exemptions
Study permit renewals, as well as those pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees and elementary and secondary education, remain exempt from the cap. Existing study permit holders will also remain unaffected.
4. Attestation Letters
To operationalize the cap, the IRCC will allocate a portion to each province and territory. These regions will, in turn, distribute the allocation among their designated learning institutions. Beginning January 22, 2024, every study permit application submitted to the the IRCC will require an attestation letter from the respective province or territory, ensuring a fair and transparent process. Provinces and territories are expected to establish this attestation process by March 31, 2024.
5. Post-Graduation Work Permit Changes
Curriculum Licensing Arrangements: Starting September 1, 2024, international students enrolled in programs under curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit. This addresses concerns related to oversight and eligibility loopholes associated with private colleges.
Extended Work Permit for Graduates: Graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will now be eligible to apply for a 3-year work permit, providing them with increased opportunities for work experience and potential transitions to permanent residence.
6. Open Work Permits Restricted
In a bid to further align with program objectives, open work permits will now be exclusively available to spouses of international students in master’s and doctoral programs. This targeted approach aims to support families while focusing resources where they are most needed.
Balancing Opportunity and Responsibility
Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized that these measures strike a balance between welcoming genuine students seeking a valuable education and ensuring their well-being. The goal is for international students to thrive in Canada while addressing pressures on local communities.
Moving Forward
The government remains committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for international students while ensuring sustainable growth and a positive experience for all.
In conclusion, Canada’s decision to implement a temporary two-year cap on new study permit applications reflects a proactive approach to managing the influx of international students while prioritizing the well-being of both students and local communities. By introducing measures to stabilize international student intake and address concerns related to post-graduation work permits, the government aims to create a sustainable framework for the continued growth of Canada’s international student population. This approach seeks to strike a balance between welcoming students and ensuring the long-term well-being of both the students and the Canadian communities they join.
