Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced more stringent requirements for international students and employment visas. These changes aim to address system abuses while supporting the economy. Trudeau revealed that Canada will issue 35% fewer international student permits this year, with a further 10% reduction next year. This change comes in response to concerns about individuals exploiting the system. Trudeau emphasized the importance of immigration for the economy but stated that it must be managed effectively.
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Changes to Temporary Foreign Workers
The government is also tightening rules regarding low-wage temporary foreign workers. The duration of their work terms will be shortened, reflecting changes in the labour market post-pandemic. Trudeau called for businesses to invest in Canadian workers instead.
Permit Statistic Expectations
Canada issued about 4,85,000 student visas in 2024, down from over 5,00,000 in 2023. This number is expected to decline further to 4,37,000 by 2025. Some students previously applied for asylum upon arrival, prompting the government to enhance verification processes for travel visas to detect fraudulent claims.
Canada plans to reduce short-term residents from 6.5% to 5% of the population. This change will be in the 2025–2027 immigration levels plan, coming out by November 1, 2024.
Updates to the Postgraduate Work Permit Specifications
The Postgraduate Work Permit will remain valid for three years for international graduates, but students must now pass the Canadian Language Benchmark test. A score of 7 is required for university undergraduates, while college undergraduates need a score of 5 for applications submitted from November 1, 2024, onward.
Changes to Degree Program Enrollment
Starting in 2025, 12% of university and college seats will be reserved for advanced degree students. Those pursuing master’s and doctoral programs must provide a provincial allotment letter (PAL) to enrol, a requirement previously limited to undergraduate students.
Impact on Work Permits
The government aims to reduce PGWP issuance by 175,000 over the next three years and spouse work permits by 50,000. Spouse work permits will only be available if the partner enrolls in a master’s program lasting at least 16 months.
Expert Opinion
Vinay Hari, an immigration consultant, commented on the new rules, suggesting that students may want to consider other countries like Europe or Australia for their studies, given the increasing competitiveness in Canada. For those who do wish to travel back to India, securing cheap flights from Amritsar to Toronto will be crucial to managing costs.
Eligibility for PGWP
Graduates from public colleges can still apply for a PGWP of up to three years if they complete programs related to occupations in long-term shortage. However, students must first pass the IELTS exam, with overall band score requirements set at 6 for undergraduate courses, 6.5 for postgraduate courses, and 7 for nursing and engineering programs.
Conclusion
The recent revisions to the PGWP and international student visas have left many diploma holders concerned about their futures. With over 300,000 diploma holders having difficulty passing Canada’s job standards, these new restrictions represent a substantial shift in Canada’s attitude to international education and labour. You can easily book last minute flight to India from Canada through Flyopedia to catch up with family or explore your roots.
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