Canada Visa Updates: New Rules on Fees, Work Permits, and Entry Requirements

Canada’s immigration and visa policies are undergoing significant changes that could affect millions of visitors, students, and foreign workers.

From increased visa fees to new work limits for international students, these updates are reshaping the landscape for anyone planning to travel, study, or work in Canada. With longer processing times and tighter entry requirements, staying informed about these changes is crucial to avoid delays and ensure smooth applications.

Let’s dive into the key updates you need to know to navigate Canada’s evolving visa system.

6 Key Canada Visa Updates

Canada is implementing several changes to its visa system. These include fee hikes for visitor, worker, and student visas, new work-hour restrictions for international students, and modifications to multiple-entry visa validity.

1. Canada to Increase Visa Fees for Visitors, Workers, and Students

Starting December 1, 2024, Canada will raise visa application fees for visitors, workers, and students. This change comes as part of ongoing efforts to align with rising operational costs.

• Visitor Visa Fees: Increased for short-term stays.
• Work Permit Fees: Adjusted for various work categories.
• Study Permit Fees: New pricing structure for international students.

2. New 24-Hour Work Limits and Study Permit Rules for Students

In a bid to support work-life balance and academic focus, Canada now limits international students to work a maximum of 24 hours per week during term time. This rule aims to prioritize academic progress.

• 24-Hour Work Limit: Affects students working while studying.
• Study Permit Rules: Stricter enforcement of full-time study status.

3. Canada Ends Student Direct Stream

Canada has ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for certain countries, requiring students to follow the regular study permit application process. This move aims to streamline applications but could lead to longer processing times for some applicants.

• SDS Ended: Affected countries must apply via standard routes.
• Impact: Potential delays for students seeking faster approval.

4. No Automatic 10-Year Visa to Tourists

Canada has tightened its tourist visa policy, eliminating the automatic issuance of 10-year multiple-entry visas. Now, applicants will need to meet specific criteria for a multiple-entry visa.

• No Automatic 10-Year Visas: Applicants must meet stricter requirements.
• Revised Entry Conditions: Short-term and long-term visitors must apply more carefully.

5. Stricter Rules for Foreign Workers and Reduced Immigration

Canada has introduced new, stricter rules for foreign workers, including more stringent eligibility criteria. The immigration rate has also been reduced, impacting the entry of skilled workers.

• Tighter Work Visa Regulations: Foreign workers face higher barriers to entry.
• Reduced Immigration Targets: Fewer immigrants will be accepted in the coming years.

6. Visa Backlog Hits 1.1 Million, Longer Wait Times for Citizenship

As of late 2024, Canada’s visa processing backlog has reached 1.1 million applications, leading to delays in issuing visas, including citizenship and permanent residency.

• Processing Delays: Longer wait times for visa approvals.
• Impact on Applicants: Citizenship and residency applications may take months longer to process.

Final Words

In conclusion, Canada’s recent visa updates are set to impact travellers, students, and workers. Staying informed about these changes is crucial to avoid delays and ensure compliance. Be proactive in understanding the new rules to navigate Canada’s evolving immigration system smoothly.

I hope this article is helpful!