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Posted on 22 July, 2024
As of January 22, 2024, a new requirement issued by IRCC mandates that most new post-secondary international students must provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) with their study permit application. This letter, issued by the province or territory, confirms that the student is included in the provincial allocation under the national cap. IRCC also states that, without a PAL, applications will be returned, except for those in exempt categories. Provinces and territories are expected to have plans for issuing PALs by March 31, 2024. Additionally, if your application was received before the specified date or you already hold a study permit, you don't need to take any further action regarding the cap.
Starting February 15, 2024, graduates of master’s degree programs shorter than two years will be eligible for a longer, three-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This change recognizes the potential of master’s graduates to succeed in the Canadian labor market and supports their transition to permanent residence. For other programs, the length of the PGWP will continue to match the duration of the study program, up to a maximum of three years. This adjustment ensures that master’s degree holders have sufficient time to gain the required Canadian work experience for permanent residency applications.
There have been concerns about the quality of education and student support at private colleges that deliver public college curricula under licensing agreements. To address these issues, IRCC has restricted PGWP eligibility for new students enrolling in these public-private partnership programs. Current students will retain their eligibility if they meet other criteria, but new enrollees will not be able to apply for a PGWP after graduation. This measure aims to improve oversight and maintain high educational standards. Therefore make sure to check whether your university or college is a Designated Learning Institute (DLI) and what the PDWP permissions for the DLI is.
There have also been changes announced by the IRCC for the eligibility criteria for open work permits for the spouses and common-law partners of international students. Only the spouses and partners of students in graduate (master’s and doctorate) and professional degree–granting programs will be eligible for open work permits. Those already holding an open work permit under this stream will remain eligible to extend it. However, spouses and partners of students in undergraduate and college programs will no longer qualify for open work permits under this new policy.
These reforms to Canada’s International Student Program aim to balance the benefits of international student contributions with the need for sustainable growth and system integrity. Understanding these changes is crucial for prospective and current international students. At Advocates Immigrations Office (AIO), we are committed to helping you navigate these updates and ensuring your study permit and work permit applications are successful. Reach out to us for expert guidance and support to make your Canadian educational journey a smooth and rewarding experience.
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