Canada to stabilize growth and decrease number of new international student permits issued to approximately 360,000 for 2024
Canada has announced new measures to stabilize the growth of international student permits, setting an intake cap at approximately 360,000 for 2024. This represents a 35% decrease from 2023 levels. The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, stated that these changes aim to protect the integrity of the international student system and support sustainable population growth.
The cap will be distributed among provinces and territories based on population, with more significant decreases in areas with unsustainable growth. Exceptions include those pursuing master's and doctoral degrees, as well as elementary and secondary education. Current study permit holders are not affected.
To implement the cap, study permit applications will require an attestation letter from a province or territory starting January 22, 2024. These temporary measures will last two years, during which the government will work on a sustainable path forward for international students, including developing a recognized institution framework and ensuring adequate student housing.
Additionally, eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program are changing. From September 1, 2024, students in curriculum licensing arrangements will not be eligible for post-graduation work permits. Master's graduates will soon qualify for a 3-year work permit, and open work permits for spouses of international students will only be available to those in master's and doctoral programs.
These measures, along with other recent reforms, aim to ensure genuine students receive necessary support while stabilizing student numbers and alleviating pressures on Canadian services. The government is also working on clear pathways to permanent residence for skilled students and transitioning international students to the labor force.
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