Canada Announces Major Updates to Study Permit Requirements

Canada has long been a popular destination for international students, attracted by its high-quality education system, diverse society, and post-graduation opportunities.

However, some students have faced challenges, including finding adequate housing and managing the rising cost of living. To address these concerns, the government has announced important changes to the International Student Program.

Financial Adjustments for Study Permit Applicants

The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, declared a significant change set to take effect from January 1, 2024. The cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants will be increased to ensure international students are financially equipped for life in Canada.

“Starting January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants will be raised to ensure that international students are better prepared for life in Canada. This threshold will be adjusted each year, similarly to other immigration programs,” said the IRCC in a tweet on X.

This threshold will be annually adjusted based on Statistics Canada’s low-income cut-off (LICO), representing the minimum income needed to maintain a reasonable standard of living.

Addressing Outdated Financial Requirements

The cost-of-living requirement for study permit applicants has remained unchanged since the early 2000s, failing to keep pace with the rising cost of living.

For 2024, a single applicant must demonstrate $20,635, representing 75% of LICO, in addition to their first-year tuition and travel costs. This change applies to new study permit applications received on or after January 1, 2024.

Focused Efforts to Support Underrepresented Cohorts

Acknowledging potential impacts on applicants, the government plans to implement targeted pilots in collaboration with partners. These pilots aim to test innovative ideas to assist underrepresented cohorts of international students, ensuring a more inclusive educational experience in Canada.

Holistic Approach to Student Support

This announcement follows recent reforms to the International Student Program, emphasizing the need for learning institutions to provide top-quality services, including housing, to international students.

The government emphasizes its commitment to supporting international students, including measures such as limiting visas if necessary, to ensure adequate student support from designated learning institutions.

Must Read: New Study Permit Application Form and Rules for International Students in Canada

Updates on Temporary Policies for International Students

Minister Miller also provided updates on three temporary policies affecting international students:

1. Extension of Off-Campus Work Hours: The waiver on the 20-hour-per-week limit for off-campus work during class sessions is extended to April 30, 2024, with considerations for potential future expansions.

2. Continuation of Online Study towards Post-Graduation Work Permit: Students starting a study program before September 1, 2024, can continue to count online study time towards the length of a future post-graduation work permit, up to 50% of the program.

3. Expiration of Additional 18-Month Work Permit Policy: The temporary policy providing an additional 18-month work permit to post-graduation work permit holders, in response to pandemic-related labour market disruptions, will not be extended beyond December 31, 2023.

Also Read: Canada Study Permits: IRCC Eases IELTS Requirement for SDS Program

Commitment to International Students

Canada values the social, cultural, and economic contributions of international students. These measures aim to address vulnerabilities and uphold the integrity of the International Student Program, ensuring that students arriving in Canada are on a solid financial footing for their studies.