Big news for anyone holding or applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) in Canada! The Canadian government has introduced significant reforms to manage the growing number of temporary residents and protect the integrity of the immigration system. These changes, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aim to bring down the temporary resident population from 6.5% to 5% by 2026.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. International Student Permit Cap
Canada has always been a top destination for international students, but there’s a cap on the number of study permits being issued. By 2025, the government plans to reduce the number of student permits to 437,000. This is part of an effort to control the volume of temporary residents, with a 10% cut in new student intake. If you’re planning to study in Canada, you’ll want to apply early to avoid being affected by the limit.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
2. New Language Requirements for PGWP Applicants
Starting November 1, 2024, if you’re applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), there will be new language requirements. These changes depend on the type of institution you graduate from:
- University graduates must now meet a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7.
- College graduates will need to meet a CLB level 5.
This means you will need to prove your English or French language skills when applying. But there’s a silver lining—if you graduate from a public college in a field with long-term labor shortages (like healthcare or technology), you may still qualify for a PGWP of up to three years.
3. Stricter Work Permit Rules for Spouses
Canada is tightening the rules for spouses of international students and foreign workers who want to work in the country. Moving forward:
- Only spouses of master’s degree students enrolled in programs of 16 months or longer will qualify for open work permits.
- Similarly, only the spouses of foreign workers in management roles or jobs experiencing significant labor shortages will qualify for these permits.
This change could impact many families planning to move to Canada together. If you or your spouse are planning to apply for a SOWP, it’s important to check if your situation fits within these new guidelines.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
4. Asylum System and Visa Reforms
The Canadian government is also cracking down on asylum system abuse and enhancing fraud detection in visa processing. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of partial visa requirements for Mexican nationals, who previously could travel to Canada without a visa. This step aims to reduce the number of unfounded asylum claims and ensure that those entering the country are doing so through proper channels.
Travel for Free: Apply Yourself Guide
What Does This Mean for You?
2024 has already seen significant shifts in Canadian immigration policies, and these new changes will affect many people aiming to work or study in the country. For international students, meeting the language requirements and navigating stricter work permit rules will be essential. For those applying for SOWPs, ensuring you qualify under the new guidelines is crucial.
These reforms are meant to balance the country’s need for skilled workers with its desire to maintain immigration integrity, but they also mean that applicants will face more challenges. Make sure to stay updated on the latest rules and start preparing your applications early to avoid any surprises.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
What Are Your Thoughts on These Changes?
Do you think these reforms will help Canada manage its temporary resident population better, or will they create more obstacles for international students and workers? Stay tuned for more updates on Canadian immigration policies.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
Disclaimer
Source : Strengthening temporary residence programs for sustainable volumes
