Studying in Canada: New rules for international students implemented in 2024

Canada has long been a popular destination for international students, thanks to its world-class education system and opportunities for post-graduation work.

However, increasing pressure on housing, resources, and infrastructure has led the Canadian government to implement new rules for international students starting in 2024.

These changes aim to balance the growing demand with sustainable development. 

New Rules for International Students in Canada 2024 

Canada has introduced several important changes to its International Student Program to better manage the growing number of foreign students. These new rules are designed to address various challenges faced by both students and educational institutions. 

Study Permit Caps for 2024 and 2025: 

• A two-year cap on study permits has been introduced, limiting the number of international students allowed to enter Canada. 
• In 2024, the number of study permits issued will drop by 35 per cent. 
• The cap for 2025 will be reduced by a further 10 per cent, to 437,000. 

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program Updates: 

• Starting November 1, 2024, graduates from public colleges will only qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if they have studied in fields related to occupations with labor shortages. 
• Graduates with bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees will still be eligible for a PGWP of up to three years, regardless of their field of study. 

Changes to Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Eligibility: 

• The Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) eligibility for spouses of international students is being restricted. Spouses of students enrolled in master’s programs will only qualify for a work permit if the program lasts at least 16 months. 

Increased Financial Requirements for International Students in Canada 

Starting January 1, 2024, new rules for international students in Canada set stricter financial requirements: 

Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) Increase: 

• The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) requirement has doubled from $10,000 to $20,635, reflecting the rising cost of living in Canada. 
• This new financial burden could be a challenge for students from lower-income countries and may limit access to higher education in Canada for some. 

Impact of New Rules on International Students 

The 2024 international student rules offer both advantages and challenges for students and institutions alike. 

Advantages: 

• Improved housing conditions as fewer students will alleviate overcrowding. 
• Smaller class sizes will lead to a better quality of education and more personalized academic environments. 

Challenges: 

• The higher financial requirements may limit access to study permits for students from low-income backgrounds. 
• Canada’s global reputation as a top choice for international education may suffer as students explore other countries like the US and the UK, which have seen increased demand. 

Provincial Reactions to Canada’s New International Student Rules 

The new rules have prompted provinces like Ontario and British Columbia to reconsider their approach to international student enrollment: 

Ontario: 

• Ontario is reviewing programs with large numbers of international students to ensure they meet quality standards and align with the labor market. 

British Columbia: 

• British Columbia has temporarily halted new post-secondary institutions from enrolling international students for the next two years. The province is also setting higher standards for designated learning institutions to ensure compliance with the new rules. 

How Canadian Institutions Are Affected by New Student Regulations 

Canadian universities and colleges, which have come to rely heavily on international student tuition, will face significant financial impacts: 

Institutions like Toronto Metropolitan University have voiced concerns about potential program closures, layoffs, and fewer services for students. According to Isaac Garcia-Sitton, executive director of international student enrollment at the university, these new caps will create financial risks for institutions, particularly colleges that rely heavily on international student tuition. 

Universities and colleges in Canada are not allowed to raise tuition fees without provincial approval. As a result, many institutions have depended on revenues from international students to offset the cost of education. The new rules for international students in Canada 2024 could force these institutions to rethink their business models and financial structures. 

Long-Term Effects of Canada’s International Student Policy Changes 

In the long run, Canada’s new international student policies could lead to: 

• A more balanced and sustainable intake of students, which reduces strain on housing and infrastructure. 
• Better academic experiences for both international and domestic students, as the focus shifts from quantity to quality. 
• Enhanced infrastructure that can better accommodate future growth in international student enrollment. 

However, the success of these policies will depend on how effectively Canada can maintain its global appeal as a top destination for international education while managing its resources. 

Prospects for International Students in Canada 

Despite the challenges, Canada remains an attractive destination for international students, with some potential changes and revisions to the 2024 rules anticipated in the future. Prospective students should plan carefully by: 

• Understanding the new visa requirements and ensuring they meet the higher financial thresholds. 
• Choosing institutions and programs aligned with their career goals and labor market demands in Canada. 

International students will continue to play a vital role in Canada’s education system and economy, and the country’s policies will likely evolve to meet the changing needs of both students and institutions. 

The new rules for international students in Canada 2024 signal a significant shift in how the country manages its growing international student population. While these changes aim to improve the overall educational experience and alleviate infrastructure pressures, they also introduce new challenges for students and institutions alike.  

As Canada continues to refine its approach, international students will need to navigate these changes carefully to ensure their study experience remains rewarding and aligned with their career aspirations. 

Canada International Student Rules FAQ