The recent reforms announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are set to reshape the landscape for international students and their spouses, particularly those from India.
The reforms, slated to take effect in 2024, aim to address concerns surrounding program integrity, resource allocation, and spousal immigration.
Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and their implications:
Temporary Cap on Study Permits: To manage resource strain and maintain program integrity, Canada has imposed a temporary cap on new study permit applications for 2024 and 2025. This move, expected to reduce new permits by 35% compared to 2023, may lead to increased competition and stricter processing for Indian applicants.
Increased Financial Requirements: Starting January 1st, 2024, international students must demonstrate a minimum of $20,635 to cover living expenses. This heightened financial requirement could pose challenges for students supporting dependents, including spouses.
Revised Spousal Open Work Permit Eligibility: Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) will now only be available to spouses of international students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, or professional programs. Spouses of undergraduate and other college-level students are no longer eligible, potentially impacting family reunification and employment opportunities.
Extended Post-Graduation Work Permit: Graduates of master’s programs will now be eligible for a three-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), up from the previous two-year limit. This enhancement aims to incentivize higher-level studies and attract more Indian students pursuing specialized fields.
Exclusion of Public-Private Partnerships from PGWP Eligibility: Minister Miller announced that international students enrolled in public-private partnerships will no longer be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) starting September 1st, 2024. This change advises students seeking work experience or permanent residency to avoid studying at private colleges offering affiliated courses from other universities, unless intending to return home immediately after studies.
Provincial Attestation Letter Requirement: Going forward, study permit applications must be accompanied by a “provincial attestation letter,” expected to be provided by provinces and territories no later than March 31st, 2024. This requirement aims to streamline the application process and ensure adherence to provincial regulations.
These reforms signify a significant shift in Canada’s approach to international education and immigration. While they may present challenges for some, they also signal opportunities for those pursuing advanced studies and specialized fields. As Canada continues to evolve its policies, prospective students and their families are advised to stay informed and plan accordingly for their educational and immigration endeavors.
Anuj Gupta, CEO of Youngrads said, “As of 2023, Canada has 1,040,985 international students with active study permits in Canada, representing a significant part of the country’s global talent pool. The new reforms have impacted the family dynamic for many international students, ultimately impacting the overall immigration to Canada. With the current regulations, it is expected that more families will be forced to live apart for extended periods, causing even more significant challenges.”
Youngrads is an online student recruitment platform that provides students with extensive guidance on overseas education.
Impact on Indian Spouse Visas:
Reduced SOWP Availability: The most immediate impact is the limited SOWP eligibility. Indian spouses of undergraduate students can no longer obtain work permits, potentially reducing income opportunities and impacting family finances.
Increased Competition: The study permit cap intensifies competition for all applicants, including Indians. Stringent processing criteria and potential delays are anticipated, making securing a visa more challenging.
Targeted Master’s Opportunities: For spouses of Indian students pursuing master’s degrees, the extended PGWP duration presents a potential upside. The longer work authorization period facilitates career development and Canadian experience, improving prospects for permanent residency.
Uncertainty and Adaptation: The temporary nature of the reforms adds another layer of uncertainty. Applicants must navigate these evolving regulations and adjust their plans accordingly. Adaptation strategies may include exploring alternative study programs within the eligible categories or considering other countries with more open spouse visa policies.
“The revised regulations aim to protect students against exploitation and fraud and ensure the integrity of the Canadian immigration system. While the reforms may bring some challenges for international students and their spouses, they ultimately aim to create a fair and secure immigration system for all,” added Anuj Gupta.
Alternatively, Indian students willing to pursue overseas education can consider countries like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Germany, etc. These countries offer not just a straightforward visa process but also excellent education, diverse cultures, and ample job opportunities, making them top choices for Indian students.
However, it is essential to research and consider various factors, such as admission procedures, eligibility criteria, cost of living, etc. before making a final decision.
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