In a September 18 news release, IRCC announced additional measures to manage the volume of temporary resident arrivals, mainly changes related to the international student cap, Post Graduation Work Permit application requirements, and Spousal Open Work Permit eligibility.

For PGWP application requirements, see How to apply.

For SOWP eligibility, see Help your spouse or common-law partner work in Canada.

In a June 21 news release, IRCC announced applications for post-graduation work permits would no longer be processed at the border – a practice commonly known as “flagpoling.” All applications must be made online. For application and additional information, see About the PGWP.

To enhance the integrity of the international student system in Canada, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced on January 22, 2024 that a provincial attestation letter (PAL) would be required for most new study permit applications. The Government of Ontario now has a PAL process in place. 

Learn more about PALs and whether you will need one.

IRCC has announced revised requirements to better protect international students.

• Effective Jan. 1, 2024 the minimum requirement for the proof of daily living expenses in new study permit applications will increase to align with 75% of Statistics Canada’s low-income cut-off. On Jan. 1, 2024, this will mean individuals must show a minimum of $20,635 for their daily living expenses for 1 year in Canada.
• The waiver on the 20-hour limit to off-campus work hours has been extended to April 30, 2024 for those eligible students.
• Online studies may continue to count towards PGWP-eligibility for students who start their program prior to September 1, 2024.
• Former students with PGWPs expiring up to December 31, 2023 may be eligible to apply for an 18-month extension. Find out if you are eligible

Keep an eye on the IRCC website clarifications on the measures announced in the news release.

See the full news release from IRCC

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