Navigating Recent Changes in Canadian Immigration Policies: What You Need to Know

In December, the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada unveiled a series of pivotal changes set to reshape the landscape for temporary students and workers seeking entry into Canada. These alterations, coupled with recent announcements, carry significant implications, particularly for international students and employers alike. Here's a breakdown of the key points and how they might impact your immigration plans:

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For International Students:

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1. Study Permits and Caps:

A cap on study permit approvals for both 2024 and 2025 has been instituted as a temporary measure. In 2024, the cap stands at approximately 360,000 study permits, marking a 35% reduction from the previous year. Renewals and existing study permit holders remain unaffected by the cap. Notably, the cap excludes applications for master's and doctoral degree programs, as well as elementary and secondary education.

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2. Changes to the Application Process:

IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) will allocate a cap per province/territory, with subsequent allocations per Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Effective January 22, 2024, all study permit applications submitted to IRCC necessitate an attestation letter from a province or territory. Provinces and territories are tasked with establishing processes for issuing these attestation letters to students by March 31, 2024.

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3. PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit) Amendments:

As of September 1, 2024, the PGWP program will exclude certain students:

- Those enrolled in study programs under curriculum licensing arrangements.

- Students attending private colleges licensed to deliver associated public college curricula.

Open work permits will see restricted issuance to spouses of international students, primarily those enrolled in master's and doctoral programs. Additionally, graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will qualify for extended PGWP periods, allowing for a 3-year work permit.

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For Temporary Foreign Workers:

If you're seeking to apply as a temporary foreign worker, we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to navigate potential upcoming changes effectively.

Employers seeking to hire international workers are advised to proceed with their applications before further changes are announced.

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Why Act Now?

For those aspiring to apply as international students or temporary foreign workers, time is of the essence. With impending changes on the horizon, swift action is advisable to navigate the evolving immigration landscape effectively.

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Why Choose Ann Arbour Consultants?

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As seasoned experts with a proven track record spanning 22 years, Ann Arbour Consultants stands ready to be your trusted partner in realizing your Canadian residency dreams. With our wealth of experience and commitment to excellence, we offer:

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- Expert Guidance: Our consultants possess unparalleled expertise in Canadian immigration laws and policies.

- Tailored Solutions: We craft personalized strategies to address your unique immigration needs and objectives.

- Comprehensive Support: From initial consultations to application processing and beyond, we provide comprehensive support every step of the way.

- Proactive Approach: We stay ahead of regulatory changes, ensuring that your immigration journey is seamless and hassle-free.

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In conclusion, as the immigration landscape transforms, Ann Arbour Consultants remains steadfast in our commitment to guiding you toward a brighter future in Canada.

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Together, let's turn your Canadian residency dreams into reality.

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Sharmila Perera

RCIC R417167

CEO and President of Ann Arbour Consultants Inc.