Canada Government Announce Changes to PGWP and Study Permit Caps for 2025

On September 18, 2024, the Canadian government announced significant changes to the Canadian International Student Program and the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which will impact international students in Canada over the next few years. These updates are crucial for anyone planning to apply for a Canada study visa or a PGWP in 2025 and beyond.

Changes to the Canada Study Visa Process for 2025 and 2026

1. In 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a cap on study permits for select programs. The 2025 changes build on that foundation with further adjustments.

2. Capped Study Permits: For 2025, the number of Canada study permits will be reduced by 10% compared to 2024. This means the government will cap study permits at 437,000 for the year.

3. Stabilized Intake for 2026: In 2026, the number of study permits issued will remain the same as in 2025, ensuring stability in international student enrollment.

4. Provinces to Receive Details Soon: Provinces and institutions will receive more specific guidelines soon, helping them prepare for the incoming student population.

5. Changes to Graduate Programs: Students pursuing master’s or PhD programs will now be included in the capped study permit levels, marking a shift from previous years.

6. K-12 Students Exempt: Students in primary and secondary schools (K-12) will not be subject to these study permit caps.

7. 12% Reserved for Graduate Students: Approximately 12% of study permits will be allocated for master’s and doctoral students. These students must also provide a provincial or territorial attestation letter, a new requirement starting in 2025.

Updates to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP)

The PGWP is an essential pathway for international graduates to stay and work in Canada, but key changes will be implemented starting in 2025. Here’s what you need to know:

Current Students: For those already studying in Canada or with an approved study permit, the government has assured support, but specific details regarding the changes to their PGWP eligibility are still pending. Expect updates later this fall.

Future Students (Starting in 2025): Students enrolling in 2025 will face new criteria for PGWP eligibility:

1. Labour Market Demand Programs: PGWP eligibility will be limited to public college programs that align with Canada’s long-term labour market needs. The government is working on identifying these programs, and updates will be available soon.

2. Language Proficiency: Graduates applying for a PGWP on or after November 1, 2024, will need to meet minimum language proficiency requirements. University graduates must achieve a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7, while college graduates will need CLB level 5.

Changes to Spousal Work Permits for International Students

The spousal open work permit is another important feature for international students and their partners. Changes coming later this year include:

1. Eligibility for Master’s Degree Students: Partners of students in master’s programs of at least 16 months will continue to be eligible for a work permit. However, shorter master’s programs will no longer offer this benefit.

2. Eligibility for PhD Programs: Partners of students pursuing PhD and doctoral programs are expected to retain their current eligibility for spousal work permits.

3. Changes for PGWP Holders: For graduates on a PGWP, their spouses or partners will only qualify for an open work permit if the graduate is employed in a management or professional role or a sector with a recognized labour shortage, such as healthcare or construction.