Reforms for international students in Canada include PAL and PGWP

Canada is implementing reforms to its International Student Program to ensure sustainable growth, system integrity and a positive student experience. The recent announcement on January 22 this 2024 sheds light on significant changes and includes the introduction of a cap on study permit applications, alterations to post-graduation work permits (PGWP) and adjustments to eligibility for open work permits for spouses. This is a topic that is gaining more and more interest among international students and their spouses since this year. Below are 4 aspects of the changes implemented by the government and their implication for the PAL (Provincial Attestation Letter) and the PGWP (Post Graduation Work Permit), as well as our views on these new measures and how foreign applicants can approach them.

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1. Limit on the number of international students and provincial attestation letter (PAL) requirement.

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Effective January 22, 2024, a cap was put in place for most new international post-secondary students at the college or undergraduate level, who will now be required to provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) along with their study permit application, confirming their inclusion in a provincial or territorial assignment within the national boundary. This move is intended to manage the unsustainable student growth observed in recent years. Now, this change does not affect the entire international student population equally, as there are certain categories that are exempt from this requirement, such as elementary and high school students, master's or doctoral students, and permit holders in Canada.

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2. PGWP update for master's graduates.

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A new change was also introduced to the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), which runs from February 15, 2024; graduates of master's programs with a duration of less than two years will now be eligible for a three-year PGWP, aligning with the extended time to accumulate the Canadian work experience required for permanent residency. This update recognizes the potential for graduates of master's programs to contribute to the Canadian labor market and transition to permanent residency. 

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3. PGWP Eligibility for public-private partnership college programs

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Concerns about the quality of education and student support in public-private partnership college programs have led to changes in PGWP eligibility. In this change, current students are not affected and will remain eligible, i.e. students in Canada and their partners are not subject to the limitations and do not have to apply for the PAL.

The change does affect new students in these programs, therefore, they will no longer qualify for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). It is hoped that this adjustment will address concerns raised by the Auditor General of Ontario and reduce international student enrollment at these institutions.

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4. Changes in open work permit eligibility for spouses.

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Eligibility for open work permits by spouses and domestic partners of international students is scheduled to change. After the reforms take effect, only spouses and domestic partners of students in graduate and doctoral programs will be eligible for open work permits. Those in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will lose eligibility unless they already have an open work permit under this category. You can supplement this information with the recent video Open work permit for student partner. I Immiland LAW CHANGE.

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How to deal with these new measures as you prepare for your trip to Canada?

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The first recommendation that Immiland consultants always suggest is to remain calm, in addition to being well informed so that you can understand these changes. There are many migratory routes to arrive to the country legally, the important thing is to know well which is the plan that adapts to your profile and that of your family.

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Reforms in Canada's International Student Program indicate a strategic approach by the government to balance the benefits of international education with sustainable growth. If you are looking for a country like this, it is most likely because you have a strong desire for personal and professional growth. So, focus on raising your profile financially, i.e., save enough funds to comfortably support yourself during your first year of study, prepare yourself beyond the level you have already achieved, think about keeping a logical thread of your studies and become a competitive professional in your field, Canada values this decision very much. Improve your English and/or French, this requirement is indispensable to study in any Canadian program, evaluate the elements of roots that you have in your country of origin so that you can use them as proof that you will return after your studies, this beyond the fact that you really want to stay, remember that all these are factors that the government takes into account when granting your visa.

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At Immiland Canada, we are attentive to the announcements and new measures that the government is giving, while this happens and comes into effect, you should stay informed so that no change will take you by surprise. We always insist on getting things right from the start.

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If you have questions about your study program or immigration status, you can write to us at Info@immilandcanada.com one of our certified Immiland advisors can assist you to guide your path to Canada. You can request a free evaluation from one of our consultants or schedule a consultation. 

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With love,

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Immiland

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