Canada

Canada’s Updated Student Visa Regulations for 2024

Preparing for international studies requires careful planning and attention to detail. Staying informed about the latest rules and regulations in your chosen study destination is vital for a successful academic journey.

For numerous prospective international students, Canada stands out as a premier study destination. Recently, Canada has introduced several revisions to its study regulations, particularly concerning study permits and Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). Whether you’re already considering Canada for your education or just beginning to explore your options, staying abreast of these recent changes is crucial.

Overview of Updated Regulations for International Students

Prospective students need to stay informed about changes in study visa regulations. Here are the key updates:

1. Temporary Federal Cap on Study Permits:

In 2024, there will be a temporary 35% reduction in approved study permits, with a cap set at 360,000. The cap for 2025 will be determined later in 2024.

1. Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility:

Starting September 1, 2024, international students enrolling in private colleges with licensed curriculum will no longer qualify for PGWPs.

1. Extended PGWPs for Master’s Graduates:

Master’s program graduates in Canada can now enjoy an extended post-graduation work opportunity, becoming eligible for three-year PGWPs.

1. Revised Cost-of-Living Standards:

From January 1, 2024, international students must demonstrate a minimum of CAD 20,635 (previously CAD 10,000) to cover living expenses. Quebec has separate regulations.

1. Eligibility Changes for Spousal Open Work Permits:

Open work permits for spouses are now restricted to those of international students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, and professional programs.

Canada’s New Policies Impacting International Students

1. Temporary Cap on Study Permits

Canada’s recent announcement on January 22, 2024, introduced a significant shift in international education policies. To manage the influx of international students, the government implemented a two-year cap on approving study permit applications. It is anticipated that there will be a 35% reduction in the issuance of new study permits in 2024 compared to the previous year, with an estimated cap of 360,000 permits. The cap for 2025 will be determined later in the year.

This policy extends to provinces and territories, which will implement caps on the enrollment of new international students in undergraduate programs. Provinces experiencing unsustainable growth, like Ontario, may see study permit approvals drop by up to 50%. These regions can now allocate study permit caps to specific universities and colleges within their jurisdictions.

However, these regulations do not affect students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees. International students already studying in Canada and renewing their study permits will not face any impact, allowing them to continue their studies smoothly.

Reasons Behind the Cap on International Students

Canada has experienced a significant rise in study permit issuances, leading to challenges in infrastructure, particularly in housing and healthcare. Moreover, certain private institutions have admitted more international students to boost revenues without improving admission standards and curriculum quality. These factors prompted the government to enforce a cap on study permits, ensuring that international students in Canada receive adequate support for academic success and overall well-being.

Impact of Study Permit Cap

The new study permit cap raises concerns for international students and has several direct impacts:

• Increased Competition: With a decrease in study permit approvals, competition for admission to Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) is expected to rise.
• Challenges for Undergraduate Programs: Enrolling in undergraduate programs such as bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, or certificates may become more challenging for students seeking study permits.
• Regional Variation: Reductions in study permits may be more significant in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia, potentially leading to heightened competition for students interested in these regions.
• Additional Documentation: Starting January 22, 2024, along with the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and proof of funds, obtaining an Attestation letter from the specific province or territory becomes mandatory for study permit applications.
• Longer Processing Times: Provinces and territories have until March 31, 2024, to set up processes for attestation letters. This may result in longer processing times and potential delays for students applying for the summer intake in 2024.

Exemptions from the Study Permit Cap

• International students in Quebec are unaffected as they were already required to submit a Quebec Acceptance Certificate for study permit approval.
• Existing study permit holders seeking extensions in Canada are unaffected by the study permit cap introduced for applications after January 22, 2024.
• Master’s or doctoral students pursuing graduate degrees are exempt from federal and provincial study permit caps, with these restrictions exclusively targeting undergraduate programs offered by Canadian colleges and universities.

2. Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility

The PGWP is an open work permit for international students completing eligible study programs in Canada. Previously, most students who completed Canadian study programs longer than eight months were eligible for PGWPs.

Starting September 1, 2024, a significant change unfolds as graduates of study programs offered by public-private partnership (PPP) institutions under curriculum licensing agreements will no longer qualify for PGWPs upon graduation.

Reasons Behind the Exclusion of PPP Institution Graduates

Under curriculum licensing arrangements, private colleges deliver a curriculum created by an associated public college. However, these institutions face relatively less regulatory oversight. The Canadian government has accused some PPP institutions of providing inadequate educational value to international students. As a strict response, these measures have been implemented to safeguard the education system and international students from entities exploiting them for significant profits.

Another notable change in the PGWP program involves master’s degree program graduates becoming eligible for a three-year work permit. Unlike the previous structure, where the PGWP duration aligned with the length of the study program, this change provides master’s graduates with an extended timeframe to accumulate Canadian work experience, enhancing their eligibility for PR programs.

Impact of changes to PGWP

Changes are made to Canada’s PGWP program to enhance its effectiveness. The PGWP program allows Canada to retain skilled professionals who graduate from its universities and colleges, contributing to the job market and economy. The modifications aim to ensure that international students qualifying for PGWPs possess the necessary qualifications for success in the Canadian job market, and they also incentivize academic institutions in Canada to elevate the quality of education provided to students.

Changes to the PGWP program aim to ensure that qualifying international students possess the necessary qualifications for success in the Canadian job market, encouraging academic institutions to enhance the quality of education they provide. Also, with the gained Canadian work experience, it becomes easier for students to qualify for PR programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

3. Longer PGWPs for Master’s Graduates

Starting February 15, 2024, a significant change takes place. This change involves providing a more extended post-graduation work permit (PGWP) for three years. It applies specifically to graduates from master’s degree programs that are less than two years long. However, they must meet all other eligibility criteria for the PGWP. Additionally, graduates of master’s degree programs, even if less than two years in duration, also qualify for a 3-year PGWP. The government has modified the length of the PGWP, enabling individuals to accumulate the necessary Canadian work experience essential for applying for PR.

Revised Cost-of-Living standards

Starting January 1, 2024, international students must meet an increased cost of living requirement of CAD 20,635 (previously CAD 10,000), excluding tuition fees. In Quebec, the minimum proof of financial support is CAD 15,078, except for students under 18, who must show access to at least CAD 7,541.

For those applying for a Canadian study permit on or after January 1, 2024, it is essential to provide sufficient proof of financial support to meet the revised cost of living standards. Remember, as an international student, you do not pay these funds to the IRCC or your academic institution; you only need to have this money available for your living expenses during your studies.

Changes to Increase Support for International Students

Implementing an increase in the cost-of-living requirement aims to present a more accurate reflection of students’ living expenses in Canada. This adjustment ensures that international students have ample funds to cover necessities during their stay. The cost-of-living requirements will undergo annual revisions.

Previously, reports surfaced about international students facing financial challenges in Canada. All these measures are taken to ease financial burdens and support international students in focusing more on their studies.

5. Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Eligibility Changes

Spouses of international students enrolled in a full-time study program were eligible for SOWPs until 2023. However, a change is underway, restricting open work permits under section C42 to spouses of master’s and doctoral students and those in professional programs like law and medicine. Regrettably, spouses of international students enrolled in undergraduate and other college programs will no longer qualify for open work permits.

The recently imposed annual study permit restrictions for international students

Obtaining Your Study Permit for Canada

When applying for a Canada Study Visa, you must ensure you have all the necessary documents, including the Letter of Introduction, to present to Canadian immigration authorities. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility Criteria:

Vaccination Requirement: You must qualify as a fully vaccinated traveler, with accepted vaccines including AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD, Bharat Biotech Covaxin, etc.

1. Acceptance by Designated Learning Institute (DLI): You must have been accepted by a DLI in Canada.
2. Financial Proof: You need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and accompanying family members, as well as return transportation.
3. Clean Background: You must have a clean criminal record and provide a police verification certificate to prove this.
4. Health Checkup: A medical certificate certifying good health is required.
5. Convincing Intent: During the visa interview, you must convince the visa officer that you intend to leave Canada upon completion of your studies.

To apply for a Canada Study Visa, you’ll need several essential documents. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Valid Passport:
2. You must have a valid passport that covers the duration of your intended stay in Canada. For example, if you’re planning to start your studies in September 2022 for a two-year program, your passport should be valid until at least September 2024.
3. Proof of Acceptance by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI):
4. You’ll need the acceptance letter from the university or college you plan to attend. A DLI is an educational institution recognized by the Canadian immigration authorities. Ensure that your institution is on the list of designated learning institutions. If you’re applying to study in Quebec, you’ll also require a CAQ (Québec Acceptance Certificate), issued by the Quebec Government. Your educational institution will provide guidance on how to obtain the CAQ if needed. However, if your program duration is less than six months, a CAQ may not be required.
5. These documents are fundamental for your Canada Study Visa application. It’s essential to ensure they are accurate and up-to-date to facilitate a smooth visa process.
6. Proof of Funds:
7. When applying for your Study Permit, you must demonstrate proof of funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. According to current standards, Canadian Immigration requires students to show they have at least CAD 20,635 for each year of their stay. Additionally, you must prove you have enough funds for a return fare. You can demonstrate your financial capacity through various means, including:
8. Canadian bank account
9. Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
10. Student loan or education loan
11. Bank statements for the past four months
12. Bank draft (convertible to Canadian dollars)
13. Proof of paid tuition and housing fees
14. Letter from a person or institution providing you with funds

Proof of funding from within Canada (such as scholarships or Canadian-funded educational programs)

The minimum bank balance required for a student visa

Updated Cost-of-Living Standards for Canada Student Visa

Commencing January 1, 2024, international students are required to satisfy an augmented cost-of-living prerequisite of CAD 20,635 (previously CAD 10,000), exclusive of tuition fees. In Quebec, the minimum financial support evidence is CAD 15,078, except for individuals under 18, who must demonstrate access to at least CAD 7,541.

For individuals applying for a Canadian study permit on or after January 1, 2024, it is imperative to furnish substantial proof of financial support to meet the revised cost-of-living criteria. It’s important to note that as an international student, these funds are not remitted to the IRCC or your educational institution; they are solely required to be available for your living expenses throughout your academic tenure.

Passport Size Photographs:

If you’re applying offline, you’ll need two passport-sized photographs adhering to specific standards. For online applications, ensure you have a digital copy of the photograph, not exceeding 4MB. Requirements include a standard neutral facial expression, a plain background, and no headgear unless for religious purposes. Key points to note:

Image size should be at least 35 mm x 45 mm

The photograph should be recent (not older than 6 months)

Your name and date of birth must be written on the back of each photo.

Immigration Medical Examination (IME):

Canadian Immigration mandates that international students from India undergo a compulsory Immigration Medical Examination conducted by approved doctors. Students need to schedule an appointment and visit designated doctors for the examination, ideally a week before initiating their visa application. Booking an appointment in advance with the nearest approved facility is advisable. During the exam, the panel physician will conduct a thorough medical assessment, which may include chest X-rays and laboratory tests. Once completed, the physician will send the results to CIC.

English Language Proficiency Exam Score:

While not obligatory at the time of application, it’s highly recommended to have your English Language Proficiency Score ready before starting the Visa Application Process. Typically, you would have already submitted your English language proficiency score to confirm your admission to the Canadian university. Accepted exams include TOEFL, IELTS, among others.

Statement of Purpose:

Also known as a Letter of Explanation, this document is essential when applying for a Canadian Study Permit. You’ll be required to submit an essay detailing the purpose of your trip to Canada and your understanding of your responsibilities as a student. While labeled as optional in the checklist, it’s strongly recommended to include this document.

Credit Card:

For online applications, you’ll need a credit card to pay the Canada student visa application fee. The Embassy Fees for the Canada study visa amount to CAD 150 (INR 9,296) for Indian students. It’s important to note that the online system only accepts credit cards, not debit cards. Additionally, the credit card used doesn’t necessarily have to be yours; you can use your parent’s card with explicit permission.Besides, if applying online, you’ll require access to a digital scanner. However, for offline applications, ensure you have true copies of all the necessary documents. When applying online, you’ll need to download certain documents, fill them out, print them, sign them, and then upload them. Therefore, arranging access to a scanner is crucial. While the system allows you to upload good-quality digital images, using a scanner is recommended over a camera.

During the personal interview, the interviewer may request additional documents to provide evidence of academic or financial status. These may include:

1. Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools attended
2. Scores from tests like TOEFL, SAT, GRE, or GMAT
3. Proof of your intention to depart from Canada upon completing your course of study
4. Details on how you’ll cover educational, living, and travel expenses.

The fee for a Canada student visa is CAD 150 for Indian students, equivalent to 9,296 Indian Rupees based on the current exchange rate in February 2024. However, exchange rates fluctuate, so it’s advisable to verify the current rate at the time of your visa application.