News Release: January 22, 2024

Hon. Marc Miller Unveils Canada’s Strategic Measures for International Students

In an effort to stabilize growth, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, declared today that the Government of Canada will implement a two-year cap on international student permit applications. The 2024 cap aims for 360,000 approved study permits, reflecting a 35% decrease from 2023. To ensure fairness, provincial and territorial caps, weighted by population, have been established, with exemptions for renewals and specific educational pursuits.

Provinces and territories will receive cap allocations, distributed among learning institutions. Starting January 22, 2024, study permit applications to IRCC must include an attestation letter from the province or territory. Temporary measures will last two years, with a 2025 reassessment. The government commits to collaborating with stakeholders to devise sustainable solutions, including housing considerations.

Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit Program:

– Effective September 1, 2024, students in curriculum licensing arrangements lose post-graduation work permit eligibility.

– Master’s degree graduates gain eligibility for a 3-year work permit, addressing the previous limitation on work experience.

Spousal Work Permits:

– Spouses of master’s and doctoral students retain open work permits, while eligibility for other levels of study is restricted.

These strategic measures, aligning with recent reforms, aim to support genuine students, enhance their Canadian study experience, and alleviate pressures on essential services.

The government pledges ongoing collaboration for a sustainable future.