What are the new rules for international students wanting to study in Canada in 2024? Canada has long been a popular destination for international students seeking to further their education. With its reputable educational institutions, stunning natural landscapes, and opportunities for cultural immersion, students from around the globe have been drawn to various Canadian cities with the hopes of studying, working, and possibly settling in Canada, or utilizing their Canadian education to advance their career back in their home country.
What are the new rules for international students wanting to enter Canada in 2024? Immigration Law
The Canadian government has introduced a yearly cap on the issuance of new study permits to international students.
On January 22, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that the cap for new study permits in 2024 will be approximately 360,000 permits. This number is 35% lower than the permits issued in 2023. The quota will be allocated among all provinces and territories based on their respective populations. Each province or territory will then determine how to distribute their share among the schools designated as Learning Institutions.
This new policy will be in effect for two years, with the 2025 cap to be decided at the end of 2024.
What is the Reason for Immigration Canada’s Policy Change?
Previously, the Canadian government had not imposed limitations on international student admissions. Typically, all that was required for an application was a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (along with other standard documents).
However, concerns have arisen regarding international students, including:
- Some schools may be admitting too many students without providing adequate support, solely for financial gain.
- Issues related to housing and public services due to the rapid influx of international students in Canada.
What do these new rules mean for students who want to apply for a study permit?
For international students wishing to study in Canada, starting January 22, 2024:
- Every new study permit application must include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province where the school is located.
- Each PAL represents a spot in the province’s quota allocated by IRCC.
- The PAL must be submitted along with other required documents, including the Letter of Acceptance from the school.
- Applications without the PAL will be deemed incomplete and not processed.
Unfortunately, late applicants may not obtain one of the limited PALs issued annually by each province, rendering them unable to apply to study in Canada for that year.
While the PAL requirement became effective on January 22, 2024, IRCC has granted provinces and territories until March 31, 2024, to establish procedures for issuing PALs. Consequently, new international students may have to wait until their chosen province starts issuing PALs, which could extend until March 31, 2024.
What can I do if I don’t get a Provincial Attestation Letter?
If you are unable to obtain a PAL, an immigration lawyer could explore exemptions on your behalf. Alternatively, for students aiming to immigrate to Canada after studying, an experienced immigration lawyer could help you explore alternative pathways to Canadian permanent residence beyond your original study plan.
Other potential immigration/permanent residence avenues include:
- Working in Canada instead of studying
- Family sponsorship for those in qualifying relationships with Canadian citizens or permanent residents aiming to reunite in Canada
- Skilled immigration categories for individuals with foreign work experience or job offers in Canada
- Starting a business in Canada
An immigration lawyer can offer guidance and assistance in navigating these immigration options. Contact us today to discuss your possibilities.