New Rules For International Students In Canada For 2025

What’s New in 2025 for International Students?

Are you planning to study in Canada, or are you already here as an international student? The rules for students are changing in 2025, and staying updated will help you avoid confusion and protect your future plans. Below is a clear breakdown of all the major updates.

1. Updated Rules for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)

Starting November 2024, Canada introduced new PGWP eligibility rules. These changes directly affect anyone who wants a work permit after graduating.

For university graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral):
You now need a minimum language score of CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French).

For college graduates:
You must meet CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French) and your program must match Canada’s labour-shortage needs. This requirement encourages students to choose programs that lead to real jobs.

2. Work Hour Flexibility

As of November 2024, you can work up to 24 hours per week during regular classes.
This small increase from 20 hours gives you more room to earn, yet it still protects your study time so you don’t lose academic focus.

3. No More Flagpoling for PGWP Applications

Since June 2024, flagpoling—leaving Canada and re-entering to get your PGWP at the border—has been stopped.
Now, all PGWP applications must be submitted online, which makes the process smoother, safer, and more consistent.

4. End of SDS and NSE Visa Programs

In November 2024, Canada discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and the Nigeria Student Express (NSE).
With these programs removed, Canada aims to create a more fair and equal study-permit system for students from every country.

5. New Spousal Work Permit Rules

Only spouses of students in professional degree programs—such as MD, DDS, LLB, and similar fields—can now apply for open work permits.
Because of this shift, Canada is prioritizing families of students who are training for high-demand careers.

6. No Study Permit Applications at Ports of Entry

From December 23, 2024, students can no longer apply for a study permit at the border.
You must submit your application online before travelling.
If you leave Canada while on maintained status, you need your new study permit approved before coming back to resume classes.

How Do These Changes Affect You?

Better Focus on Studies

With structured work hours, you can now balance your job and education more effectively.

Stronger Job Opportunities

Because PGWP eligibility aligns with labour shortages, your chances of finding a job after graduation improve.

A Fairer System

Ending SDS and NSE ensures that every applicant is treated equally, regardless of their country of origin.

How to Prepare for 2025

• Confirm your PGWP eligibility before choosing or continuing your program.
• Apply early for study permits and extensions to avoid delays.
• Choose programs linked to in-demand jobs to secure future opportunities.

In Conclusion

These new rules may seem challenging at first. However, they are designed to help students succeed, strengthen Canada’s workforce, and promote fairness. Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for global education. With the right planning, you can take full advantage of every opportunity waiting for you here.

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).