Canadian Study Permit Changes | What You Need to Know

December 12, 2024

Ishita Soni

New Rules for Study Permits and PGWP

Recent updates from Canadian authorities have introduced significant changes to the eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). These changes will affect students who alter their study programs and require an extension of their study permits. Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing and how it impacts international students.

PGWP Ineligibility for Program Switchers

Starting November 1, 2023, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that students who change their program of study will no longer be eligible for a PGWP if they need an extension for their study permit. This means that if you are in a program that’s not on the designated list and must extend your permit after November 1, you won’t be able to apply for a PGWP.

However, students who had a study permit before this date, regardless of their program, are still eligible for a PGWP as long as they meet the other requirements.

Study Permit Extensions and Expiry Dates

For those needing to extend their study permits, it’s crucial to understand the expiry date. The IRCC has clarified that the expiry date is typically the length of your program plus 90 days. This 90-day window allows students to prepare to leave Canada or apply for an extension.

If your study permit expires and you haven’t applied for an extension, you will be required to leave Canada. This rule emphasizes the importance of timely applications to continue studying in Canada.

Impact on Students Changing Programs

There are concerns about how the new rule affects students who wish to change their program. According to Larissa Strong, the director of international study at the College of the Rockies, this could severely impact many students. She stated that in smaller colleges, as much as 23% of students might be affected. The change has raised questions about whether students’ educational paths should have such life-altering consequences, with many feeling the shift is too focused on labor market and immigration outcomes, rather than student needs.

What’s Behind These Changes?

The changes to the PGWP regulations are part of broader shifts in Canada’s immigration and student visa policies. These include a 10% reduction in the number of student visas issued by 2025, and stricter rules for accompanying family members. Additionally, new study permit applicants will soon need a provincial or territorial approval letter (PAL).

Other Significant Changes to Study Permits

Other recent changes include an increase in the financial requirement for study permits, from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,635. Additionally, schools are now required to ensure international students have secured housing before issuing admission letters. These measures are all part of Canada’s efforts to maintain the integrity of its immigration system.

Canada’s Growing Popularity Among International Students

Despite these stricter rules, Canada remains a popular destination for international students. In 2023, there were over 1 million international students with active study permits in Canada, a 29% increase from the previous year. India, China, and the Philippines are the top contributors to this growing student population.

Conclusion

If you are planning to study in Canada, it’s essential to be aware of these new regulations. Changing programs or extending your study permit could impact your eligibility for a PGWP, so understanding the rules and deadlines is crucial. As Canada continues to attract international students, these policy changes reflect the government’s focus on both education and immigration control.+

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).

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