• 2 February 2024

Canada Sets a 2024 Cap on the Amount of New International Student Permits Issued in Order to Ensure Sustainability

Significant contributions from overseas students have shaped Canada’s social, cultural, and economic environment. Concerns over the integrity of the system and its effects on other sectors have been raised, nonetheless, due to the International Student Program’s recent unsustainable growth. The Canadian government has taken action to address these issues by announcing plans to stabilize the number of foreign students and guarantee a satisfying and long-lasting experience for all parties involved. 

As of this now, The Honourable The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister, Marc Miller, announced intentions to impose a two-year cap on the number of new applications for international student permits beginning in 2024. With a maximum of roughly 360,000 authorised study permits, it is 35% lower than levels in 2023. Based on population, provincial and territorial caps have been set, with the provinces that have grown the fastest facing the largest decreases. 

As of January 22, 2024, all study permit applications filed with the IRCC will need a provincial attestation letter (PAL) in order to enforce the cap. By March 31, 2024, provinces and territories are expected to have issued PALs to students. The majority of post-secondary study permit applicants are subject to the cap; however, some programs and holders of active study permits are exempt. 

A number of modifications have been announced to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP) qualifying criteria in addition to the intake cap: With effect from September 1, 2024, students participating in curriculum licensing arrangements will not be eligible for the PGWP. 

PGWP term for master’s degree holders is extended to three years, giving them the opportunity to obtain useful job experience. 

Spouses of international students are limited to master’s and doctorate programs for open work visas. 

By taking these steps, we want to achieve a balance between helping real students and tackling issues with sustainability and system abuse. Canada aims to reduce demand on housing, healthcare, and other facilities while creating a climate that is conducive to the success of international students by stabilising the number of these students. 

Minister Marc Miller emphasised, “Through the decisive measures announced today, we are striking the right balance for Canada and ensuring the integrity of our immigration system while setting students up for the success they hope fo

Canada’s determination to create a friendly and encouraging environment for overseas students is reflected in its commitment to sustainable expansion in the international student program. The government will keep up its efforts to offer unambiguous routes to permanent residence and investigate projects aimed at improving the Canadian student experience when these policies come into force. The government has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving the integrity and efficacy of the International Student Program. These include revisions to the cost-of-living standards and improved procedures for verifying admission letters. In the future, specialised pilot programs will be implemented to assist underrepresented international student cohorts.