Canada has long been recognized as a hospitable country that welcomes newcomers who contribute significantly to our economy and enrich our cultural fabric. Acknowledging the challenges posed by labor shortages and the pandemic’s lasting effects, the federal government has stepped up its efforts to meet the urgent demands of businesses and facilitate economic recovery. As our nation’s economic landscape continues to transform, Canada’s immigration framework must also evolve to face new hurdles, especially within a dynamic labor market.
Earlier this year, Canada’s Immigration Department declared ambitious plans to decrease the proportion of temporary residents—from the current 6.5% of the population to 5% by the year 2026. To achieve this objective, the government is enacting a series of strategic measures aimed at better managing the influx of temporary residents and ensuring that the system is utilized correctly by employers. These measures include an overhaul of the International Student Program, stricter eligibility criteria for temporary foreign workers, improved employer compliance checks, and more rigorous labor market impact assessments to curb fraudulent activities.
To provide essential support to temporary residents and to preserve the integrity of Canada’s immigration system, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, has initiated several additional actions. These steps are designed to effectively manage the number of incoming temporary residents, safeguard vulnerable individuals, and uphold system integrity.
Upcoming Adjustments in Study and Work Permit Policies for International Students
PL Immigration is set to implement a series of new adjustments to its policies regarding international student study permits and work permit programs, aiming to enhance the integration and success of foreign nationals in Canada.
Reduction in 2025 Study Permits
A strategic decision has been made to decrease the number of study permits issued to international students in 2025. Initially set at a target of 485,000 for 2024, the issuance will be cut by 10%, bringing the number to 437,000 new permits. This revised cap will remain consistent throughout 2026, allowing for stabilization and assessment of impacts.
Enhancements to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program
In alignment with our commitment to meet immigration objectives and adapt to labor market demands, changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program will be introduced this fall. These adjustments aim to offer graduates improved pathways to extend their stay and contribute to Canada’s workforce.
Updated Work Permit Rules for Spouses of Master’s Degree Students
Later this year, the eligibility criteria for work permits for spouses of master’s degree students will become more specific. Only those whose partners are enrolled in programs lasting 16 months or longer will qualify, thus aligning with the broader goals of educational and economic integration.
New Criteria for Work Permit Eligibility for Spouses of Foreign Workers
To better manage labor market needs, the eligibility for work permits will be confined to spouses of foreign workers who are employed in managerial or professional roles, or in sectors experiencing labor shortages. This will be applicable under both Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP), ensuring that the workforce is supported in critical areas.
The global rise in displaced people has led to a notable increase in asylum seekers arriving in Canada, mirroring trends observed in numerous countries around the world. Consequently, there has been a significant rise in the number of temporary residents within our borders. As part of our commitment to humanitarian principles, the Canadian government has rolled out a series of strategic initiatives aimed at addressing integrity challenges and refining the asylum process in Canada. These efforts include:
- Introducing targeted visa requirements for Mexican nationals to enhance border security
- Streamlining the asylum application process to ensure it remains both efficient and just, in line with enhancements planned for 2024
- Reevaluating visa decision protocols to equip our dedicated officers with advanced tools for identifying fraudulent applications and minimizing entry by non-genuine visitors
- Exploring further strategies to strengthen the integrity of the visa system
These measures, in conjunction with newly announced initiatives, are designed to fortify our immigration infrastructure and meet the dynamic requirements of our nation. We have actively sought input from Canadians across various sectors, including those at the provincial, territorial, and local levels, as well as insights from community leaders. Our ongoing dedication is to uphold the integrity of our immigration system while supporting the sustainable growth of our country.
Revised Content: Enhanced Guidelines on Canadian Immigration Policies
PL Immigration is excited to shed light on the forthcoming modifications to Canada’s immigration landscape, set to launch with the Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027. A significant goal of this plan is to reduce the proportion of temporary residents from the current 6.5% of Canada’s total population to a more manageable 5%. Details of this plan are anticipated to be unveiled by November 1, 2024.
Recent graduates from public colleges are encouraged to note that they will continue to qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to three years. Eligibility depends on completing a study program aligned with occupations facing sustained shortages. As part of the refinements to the PGWP Program, commencing November 1, 2024, candidates must meet a minimum proficiency in either French or English. This is to enhance their prospects to transition to permanent residency and better navigate economic changes. The new language requirements stipulate that university graduates must achieve a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7, while college graduates need a CLB level of 5 to apply for a PGWP.
Furthermore, the allocation system for study permits for the academic years 2025-2026 will see adjustments, integrating spaces for master’s and doctoral candidates. These students must present an attestation letter from a provincial or territorial authority, with approximately 12% of study permit spaces earmarked for them, acknowledging their valuable input into the Canadian labor market.
Starting January 1, 2024, there will be an update in the cost-of-living stipulation for study permit seekers. This aims to more accurately reflect the real expenses of living in Canada, thus reducing the vulnerability and exploitation of international students.
Addressing Canada’s asylum framework, the 2024 Budget outlines a significant investment of $743.5 million across five years, starting in 2024-2025. This is complemented by an ongoing pledge of $159.5 million to bolster the system’s resilience and integrity.
