Changes for international students

Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, announced on 7/12/2023, a series of changes that affect international students.

Changes that impact students in Canada:

International students who are already in Canada and have submitted a study permit application by today, December 7, 2023, will be permitted to work more than 20 hours per week until April 30, 2024. The Public Policy that allowed the extension of the Post-Graduation Work Permit - PGWP, a break as an aid in the post-pandemic economic recovery, will not be extended for those whose PGWP expires from January 1, 2024. Only those with a PGWP expiring by December 31, 2023, can also request the OWP (Open Work Permit) valid for 18 months, as stipulated by the current Public Policy.

Change that impacts students who will apply for a study visa in 2024:

From January 1, 2024, there will be a change to the financial proof requirements for study visa obligations. Considering only a study visa application, the new minimum value for financial proof is CAD$20,635, previously it was CAD$10,000.

This adjustment has not been carried out since 2000 and represents the minimum income necessary to cover basic living expenses during studies. From now on, this value will be updated annually, in line with LICO updates from Statistics Canada.

New improvement proposals: To maintain the quality of international students, Canada has a responsibility to ensure that all students receive the support they need upon arrival in the country.

And so, in 2024, Canada's immigration plans to implement specific pilot programs for international students, with the aim of testing innovations and providing assistance to specific groups.

Additionally, the government will continue to work on developing a new system to recognize institutions that offer high-quality services and support, including more accommodation options across the country that meet students' needs.

Minister Marc Miller also mentioned that the possibility of increasing the nurmbe of hours a student can work weekly is being studied, considering the change from 20 to 30 hours per week. However, there is still no defined date for the implementation of this change.

Up Immigration is always with you and we are in direct contact with Canada's official immigration department for comprehensive details on recent changes.

Including points not yet completely clarified, such as the adjustment in the amount required for dependents in the financial proof of the visa.

Stay tuned to our social media to find out more or contact us.