Among several countries in the world, Canada is a prominent destination where students from around the world visit to get higher education. It is the second-largest country in the world after Russia and shares its border with the USA, which is the longest international land border in the world. For several years, Canada has been the hub for people of foreign origin. According to some data, a large population of Canada is from Asian countries.
Many people from other countries visit here to build their careers. Several international students arrive here to get higher education after completing their class 12th or equivalent. Like every year, in 2024 also, many international students are coming to study in Canada.
But, there may be some differences in the rules for international students who are visiting Canada in 2024. Here, you will learn about some 2024 rules for students coming to Canada.
Rules in 2024 for International Students Visiting Canada
1. Interim Federal Limitation on Study Permits
A 35% decrease in the number of granted study permits for 2024 is anticipated, with a ceiling set at 360,000. The cap for 2025 will be decided only by the end of 2024.
2. Changes Made to the Eligibility of Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
As of September 1, 2024, international students who are enrolling in private colleges with licensed curriculum will no longer be eligible for PGWPs.
3. Benefits to Master’s Graduates by Extended PGWPs
A prolonged post-graduation work opportunity will now benefit graduates of master’s programs in Canada as they qualify for three-year PGWPs.
4. Revision to Cost-of-Living Standards
With effect from January 1, 2024, international students in Canada need to show proof of financial support to cover the cost of living. The minimum amount is now CAD 20,635 (excluding tuition), which was previously CAD 10,000 for most provinces. It's CAD 15,078 in Quebec (except for students under 18) and when we talk about budget friendly student housing in Waterloo, then there are lots of options are avaialable.
5. Revised Rule for Eligibility for Spousal Open Work Permit
Only those international students will be able to get open work permits for spouses now, who are enrolled in master's, doctoral, and professional programs.
What Is the Impact of Changes to PGWP?
Revisions are made to Canada’s PGWP program for enhancing its effectiveness. With the PGWP program, skilled professionals who graduate from Canadian universities and colleges are retained in Canada, contributing to the job market and economy. The aim of the modifications is to ensure that overseas students eligible for PGWPs own the necessary qualifications to succeed in the job market in Canada. Additionally, they motivate academic institutions in Canada to enhance the quality of education they offer to students.
Another advantage is that the Canadian work experience makes it easier for students to qualify for PR programs such as Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Summary Points:
· Study permit approvals decrease by 35%, capped at 360,000 in 2024, and 2025's cap will be determined by year-end.
· Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility changes and students from private colleges with licensed curricula starting September 1, 2024, have been excluded.
· Master's graduates are now eligible for extended three-year PGWPs.
· Financial support standards increase to CAD 20,635 for the cost of living, effective January 1, 2024.
· Spousal open work permits are restricted to master's, doctoral, and professional program enrollees.
Final Thoughts
For international students in Waterloo, Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, Edmonton, Calgary, or any other Canadian city, these rules are applicable; however, this is a little difference in Quebec as you have read above. You must read these rules if you are going to visit any city in Canada for your higher education.