Canada’s New International Student Regulations in 2024


In response to the increasing number of international students, Canada has introduced significant changes to its International Student Program, effective in 2024. These new regulations aim to manage the challenges that arise from accommodating a growing foreign student population while ensuring quality education and sustainable infrastructure.


Study Permit Restrictions

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of caps on study permits for the next two years. Specifically, in 2024, Canada will issue 35% fewer study permits, reducing the total from approximately 485,000 to around 315,000. The following year, this cap will decrease further by 10%, allowing for a maximum of 437,000 permits. This strategic move is intended to alleviate pressure on housing markets and educational institutions across the country, addressing concerns about overcrowding and resource allocation.


Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Adjustments

Starting November 1, 2024, new eligibility criteria will be enforced for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Graduates from public colleges will only be eligible for a PGWP if they have studied in fields directly related to occupations facing labor shortages. Conversely, those with bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees will still qualify for a PGWP lasting up to three years, regardless of their field of study. This change aims to align education with labor market needs and ensure that graduates contribute effectively to the Canadian economy.


Changes Affecting Spousal Work Permits

The eligibility for the Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) has also been revised. Under the new rules, spouses of international students enrolled in master’s programs must ensure their program lasts at least 16 months to qualify for a work permit. This adjustment is designed to streamline applications and focus on longer-term educational commitments.


Financial Requirements: A New Challenge

Effective January 1, 2024, international students will face stricter financial requirements aimed at ensuring they can support themselves while studying in Canada. The amount required for a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) has doubled from $10,000 to $20,635. This increase reflects the rising cost of living in Canada and may pose significant challenges for students from lower-income backgrounds, potentially limiting their access to Canadian higher education.


Positive Impact on International Students

While these regulations present challenges, they also offer several potential benefits:

  • Reduced Overcrowding: With fewer international students entering Canada, housing shortages may ease, leading to improved living conditions.

  • Enhanced Learning Environments: Smaller class sizes could foster more personalized interactions between students and instructors, promoting better educational outcomes.


Potential Drawbacks on International Students

However, there are considerable challenges:

  • Financial Barriers: The increased financial requirements could deter many prospective students from applying or securing necessary funds.

  • Global Competition: Canada risks losing its status as a preferred destination for international education as students may turn to countries like the U.S. or U.K., which are perceived as more accessible.


Provincial Responses and Institutional Impacts

The new regulations have prompted varying responses from Canadian provinces:

  • In Ontario, authorities are reviewing programs with high international student enrollments to ensure they meet quality standards and are aligned with labor market demands.


  • Meanwhile, British Columbia has paused new enrollments of international students at post-secondary institutions for two years while implementing stricter compliance measures for designated learning institutions.


These changes could significantly impact Canadian educational institutions that rely heavily on tuition fees from international students. For example, universities like Toronto Metropolitan University have raised concerns about potential program closures and layoffs due to reduced enrollment numbers.


Long-Term Outlook and Future Considerations

In the long term, these policy changes may lead to:

  • A more sustainable approach to managing international student enrollment that reduces pressure on housing and educational infrastructure.

  • Improved academic experiences for both domestic and international students as institutions focus on quality rather than quantity.

  • Enhanced infrastructure capable of supporting future growth in international student numbers.


Despite these new challenges, Canada continues to be an attractive destination for many international students. Prospective applicants should stay informed about evolving regulations and carefully plan their educational journeys by understanding visa requirements and selecting programs that align with their career aspirations.


As Canada navigates these changes in its International Student Program, it remains crucial for both students and institutions to adapt effectively. The landscape of international education in Canada is evolving, promising a future where quality education can thrive alongside sustainable growth. This version aims to provide a unique perspective while expanding on various aspects related to the new regulations affecting international students in Canada.