Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, has unveiled crucial details regarding the allocation of study permits for international students in 2024. The recent announcement sheds light on the implementation of a cap on study permits, aiming to regulate the influx of international students into Canadian universities and colleges.
This move comes in response to what the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) terms as “unsustainable growth” in the international student program.
Cap Details and Objectives
The Trudeau government has designated approximately 292,000 study permits for undergraduate and postgraduate students for the year 2024. Initially, the cap was set at around 360,000, to reduce approved study permits by 35% over two years.
However, Minister Miller clarified during a meeting of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM) that he has the authority to cap applications but not the actual issuance of visas.
Key Points
1. Limited Applications, Not Visas: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can only limit the number of study permit applications processed, not the final number of visas issued.
2. Reduced Intake Levels: The initial cap aims for approximately 360,000 approved study permits in 2024, a 35% decrease from previous years.
3. Provincial Allocation: The cap distributes permits by population across Canada, with each province managing its own allocation.
4. New Requirement: Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs): In addition to a letter of acceptance (LOA), international students will now need a PAL from their chosen province to apply for a study permit.
Also Read: 7 Must-Have Documents For Canada Student Visa Applications
Implementation and Responsibilities
The responsibility for implementing the study permit cap lies with provincial governments, who are expected to issue Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) to eligible international students.
These PALs signify the student’s authorization to contribute to the province’s study permit allocation. Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in each province will play a crucial role in providing PALs to students.
Changes in Application Process
Under the new system, applicants seeking study permits must provide both a letter of acceptance (LOA) from a Canadian institution and a PAL from the provincial government.
Previously, only the LOA was required. The number of allocations given to each province or territory is determined by their respective populations.
Also Read: Canada Study Permit: Attestation Letters, Caps, and PGWP Changes for 2024
Understanding the Cap
The study permit cap is designed to regulate the number of international students entering Canada. This approach aims to ensure the program’s sustainability and system integrity.
Applying for a Study Permit in 2024
The application process now requires both a letter of acceptance (LOA) from a designated learning institution (DLI) and a PAL from the student’s chosen province. Each province will have its system for issuing PALs, with details expected by March 31, 2024.
Impact on International Students
This new cap and PAL requirement represent a significant shift for international students seeking to study in Canada. Students must stay updated on individual provincial PAL issuance processes and deadlines.
Looking Forward
The implementation of the study permit cap and PAL system will be closely monitored. Its effectiveness in addressing program growth and its impact on international student opportunities in Canada remains to be seen.
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