Canada has implemented significant changes to its International Student Program, effective November 15, 2024. These new regulations aim to address the challenges posed by the rapid growth in international student numbers while maintaining Canada’s position as a premier destination for global education
Key Changes in the International Student Program
1. Work Hour Limitations
- New Limit: Eligible students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions.
- Full-Time Work: Students may work full-time during scheduled breaks in their academic calendar.
2. Study Permit Requirements
- Institutional Change: Students must now apply and be approved for a new study permit before changing learning institutions.
- Compliance: This change aims to strengthen the integrity of the International Student Program.
3. Designated Learning Institution (DLI) Responsibilities
- Reporting Requirements: DLIs must submit compliance reports and verify acceptance letters.
- Consequences: Failure to provide required information could result in suspension from welcoming new international students for up to a year.
4. Enrolment Cap
- Extension: The cap on foreign enrolment has been extended through 2025 and 2026.
- Reduction: The cap for 2025 and 2026 will be set at 10% less than the 2024 level.
- Inclusion of Advanced Degrees: The cap now includes master’s and doctoral students, previously exempt.
5. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes
- University Graduates: Remain eligible for a PGWP of up to three years.
- Public College Graduates: No longer automatically eligible for a three-year PGWP unless their program is linked to high labour market demand.
Objectives of the New Regulations
- Sustainable Growth: Managing the influx of international students to ensure quality education and support services.
- Labour Market Alignment: Ensuring that international graduates contribute to areas of high labour market demand.
- Program Integrity: Strengthening oversight and compliance measures for educational institutions.
- Student Protection: Improving support systems and safeguarding students from potential exploitation.
Impact on Stakeholders
For Students:
- More regulated work opportunities during studies
- Clearer pathways for those in high-demand fields
- Potential limitations on post-study work options for some college graduates
For Educational Institutions:
- Increased responsibility in reporting and compliance
- Potential reduction in international student intake
- Need for stronger alignment with labour market needs
For the Canadian Labour Market:
- Better alignment between international student skills and workforce needs
- Potential reduction in labour supply in certain sectors
Conclusion
Canada’s new regulations for international students represent a significant shift towards a more sustainable and targeted approach to international education. While these changes may pose challenges for some stakeholders, they aim to ensure the long-term viability of Canada’s international education sector. Students, institutions, and employers will need to adapt to these new realities, focusing on programs and pathways that align closely with Canada’s economic needs and labour market demands
