Canada in 5: New Student Permit Cap in 2024

"Canada in 5" brings you this week’s key immigration updates in a quick, digestible format. From the 2024 cap on international student permits to significant financial requirement increases and essential immigration policy shifts.

In 2024, Canada is setting new rules for international students, significantly affecting how students from abroad will access Canadian education. Here are the essential changes and their implications:

Introducing a Cap 

Canada will cap international student permits at 360,000 for the year, producing a 35% reduction from previous admissions. This change aims to manage the growth of student numbers sustainably.

Financial Requirements

The proof of funds required for living expenses has doubled to $20,635. This adjustment reflects the rising cost of living and aims to ensure students can support themselves financially during their studies in Canada.

Exemptions from the cap

The cap does not apply to master's, doctoral, or K-12 students, showing Canada's commitment to fostering high-level academic talent and ensuring young learners' education is uninterrupted.

PGWPP adjustments

New eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP) include needing a provincial attestation letter with study permit applications starting January 22, 2024. These measures are designed to maintain the quality of post-study work opportunities available to graduates.

Provincial allocation

Permits will be allocated based on regional needs and capacities, allowing for a balanced distribution of international students across Canada.

Implications

• Quality focus: This policy underscores Canada's emphasis on high-quality education and manageable student numbers.
• Increased living cost proof: Prospective students must carefully consider the financial implications of the increased proof of funds requirement.
• Selective work opportunities: Changes in PGWPP criteria mean graduating students will face new conditions for qualifying for work opportunities in Canada.

These new rules for international students in Canada will come into effect in 2024. Even if these changes aim to ensure quality education, they may pose some challenges. Admis is here to help guide you through these changes and provide assistance to help you adjust and succeed in Canada's evolving educational environment.

Quebec is considering limiting the influx of temporary foreign workers.

• Quebec's population: Over 9 million.
• Temporary immigrants in Quebec: 528,034, an increase of 46% in one year.
• Temporary foreign workers: 225,684, up 61% in one year.
• Jobs to be filled by 2031: Approximately 1.6 million.

As a student, Tunde Omotoye, moving from Nigeria to Canada, faced uncertainty but turned challenges into triumphs. He founded a company to aid immigrants, blending resilience with innovation. His journey from layoff to HR leader and entrepreneur inspires, showing that adaptability and perseverance can create impactful change​​​.