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Canada Introduces New Limits on Foreign Enrolment & PGWP: Key Updates for 2025-26

Sep 25, 2024

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As of 2024, the Canadian Government has been taking proactive steps to enhance the integrity of its international student program. To address the growing concerns about the system’s sustainability and transparency, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a temporary cap on study permits earlier this year. This cap was aimed at managing foreign enrolment numbers and ensuring that international students get the best facilities during their study tenure. 

In a recent follow-up to these efforts, Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller announced additional changes on September 18th, 2024. These updates will have significant implications for prospective international students planning to study in Canada.
 

Key Changes Impacting International Students in 2025 & Beyond

1. New Study Permit Cap for 2025-2026 with a 10% Reduction

In 2025 and 2026, the Canadian Government will further implement a cap on the number of study permits issued. In 2024, approximately 485,000 study permits were issued. However, the new target is set at 437,000 study permits annually, which is a 10% reduction compared to 2024 levels. 

Another major change is that this cap will now include both Master's Degree and PhD students. So, international students planning for these levels of study will now be required to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) as part of their study permit application. 

This requirement aims to ensure that enrolment numbers remain aligned with the country's ability to support international students while maintaining high standards of education and accommodation.
 

2. Adjustments to Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) 

A significant shift is coming to PGWP eligibility. At present, international students are eligible for a PGWP of up to three years. However, in the coming months, the eligibility criteria for PGWPs will change for public college graduates.

International students graduating from public college programs will no longer automatically qualify for the full three-year PGWP unless their field of study is tied to areas with significant labour market demand. The good news is that the duration for university graduates will remain unaffected. 
 

3. New Language Proficiency Requirements for PGWP

In a move aimed at increasing employability and enhancing pathways to permanent residence, Canada has introduced mandatory language proficiency requirements for the PGWP program. Later this year, all PGWP applicants will be required to prove a minimum language proficiency in English or French.

University graduates will need to achieve a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 7, while college graduates will need a CLB score of 5 to apply for a post-graduation work permit. These changes will ensure that international graduates are better equipped to integrate into the Canadian workforce and adapt to the country’s economic landscape. 
 

4. Updated Work Permit Rules for Spouses of Masters Students

Another important update pertains to work permits for spouses of international students. Under the new regulations, spouses of international students pursuing masters in Canada will only be eligible for an open work permit if the student’s program is at least 16 months long. 

All of these are the latest changes introduced by the IRCC for its international students. By refining the rules and eligibility, the government aims to ensure that international students are both academically successful and well-positioned for life after graduation in Canada. 

For international recruiters, it is important to keep your students informed of these developments, ensuring they are prepared for the 2025 intakes and beyond. Let’s work together to secure brighter futures for students across the globe!

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