Canada’s Federal Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, has announced significant immigration policy changes for the years 2024 and 2025, with a particular focus on tightening rules around international students and open work permit holders. These changes are set to affect a range of stakeholders, including international students, their spouses, and foreign workers. Below, we break down the key updates and what they mean for future applicants.

Reduced Cap on International Student Permits

Starting in 2025, the Canadian government will reduce the number of international student study permits issued by 10%, compared to the 2024 target of 485,000 new permits. This translates to an expected cap of 437,000 new study permits in 2025. The government plans to stabilize this number for 2026, meaning no further growth in international student admissions for the foreseeable future.

Aspiring international students will face stiffer competition for a reduced number of available study permits.

Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) Program Updates

Changes to the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) program have been made. Applicants of graduating from a Master’s degree program will require to demonstrate a CLB course of 7 and College graduates must acquire CLB 5 effective Nov 01, 2024.

Restrictions on Spousal Work Permits for Master’s Degree Students

In a move that could affect families of international students, the government will limit work permits for spouses of master’s degree students. Only those whose programs are at least 16 months long will be eligible for spousal open work permits, and this change will take effect later this year.

Master’s degree students enrolled in shorter programs may no longer be able to bring their spouses on work permits. This could impact the financial and living situations of international students who rely on dual incomes while studying in Canada.

Limits on Spousal Open Work Permits for Foreign Workers

The government will impose new restrictions on spousal open work permits, limiting eligibility to spouses of foreign workers in management or professional roles or in sectors with labour shortages. These changes will affect both the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP).

Spouses of foreign workers in lower-skilled or non-management roles may no longer qualify for open work permits.

Why These Changes Matter

The Canadian government appears to be tightening immigration pathways in response to growing concerns over housing shortages, labour market dynamics, and the increasing demand for public services. While these changes may help manage immigration numbers and address labour market needs, they could also reduce Canada’s attractiveness as a destination for international students and skilled foreign workers.

Recommendation

If you’re an international student or a foreign worker considering Canada, now is the time to review your plans in light of these upcoming policy changes. Make sure your program of study or occupation meets the new eligibility criteria to avoid any disruptions to your immigration process.

Stay Informed As further details about these policy changes emerge, it will be important to stay informed and seek professional guidance to navigate the evolving landscape of Canadian immigration.

For review of your plans and profile, contact us!