Canada Introduces Cap on International Student Permits to Stabilize Growth

January 22, 2024—Ottawa—Canada's international student community significantly contributes to the nation's social, cultural, and economic landscape. However, in recent years, the integrity of this system has faced challenges. Certain educational institutions have notably increased student intakes to boost revenues, often without providing adequate support for these students. This surge has exerted pressure on essential services such as housing and healthcare. In response, the Canadian government is implementing measures to stabilize and sustain the growth of international students in the country.

New Cap on Study Permits

The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced today that an intake cap will be imposed on international student permit applications for the next two years. In 2024, this cap will result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, marking a 35% reduction from 2023 figures. The cap will be distributed across provinces and territories, weighted by population, with more significant reductions in regions experiencing unsustainable growth in their international student populations. Importantly, this cap will not affect study permit renewals, nor will it apply to those pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees, or elementary and secondary education. Current study permit holders will remain unaffected.

Provincial and Territorial Allocation

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will allocate portions of the cap to each province and territory, who will further distribute these allocations to their designated learning institutions. Starting January 22, 2024, all study permit applications must include an attestation letter from the respective province or territory, with the process for issuing these letters to be established by March 31, 2024.

Temporary Measures and Future Assessments

These measures will be in place for two years, with the intake number for 2025 to be reassessed at the end of 2024. During this interim period, the Canadian government will collaborate with provinces, territories, educational institutions, and national education stakeholders to develop a sustainable framework for international students. This includes finalizing a recognized institution framework, setting long-term sustainable student levels, and ensuring adequate student housing is available.

Changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program

In alignment with these efforts, changes are being made to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program. Effective September 1, 2024, international students enrolling in study programs under curriculum licensing arrangements will be ineligible for post-graduation work permits. These programs, often delivered by private colleges using public college curricula, have grown rapidly and lack sufficient oversight. Additionally, graduates of master’s degree programs will become eligible for a three-year work permit, addressing current limitations that hinder their work experience and permanent residency pathways.

Revised Work Permit Eligibility for Spouses

Furthermore, open work permits will soon be restricted to spouses of international students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs. Spouses of students in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer qualify for these permits.

Conclusion

These comprehensive reforms are designed to ensure that genuine students receive the necessary support and resources for a fulfilling study experience in Canada. They aim to stabilize student arrivals and mitigate the strain on crucial services such as housing and healthcare. As these policies take effect, Canada reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a robust and sustainable international student system, fostering an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.