What International Students in Canada Need to Know About New Rules in 2025
December 30, 2024 Amritpal Kaur
For international students in Canada, 2025 brings a set of crucial changes that will impact everything from work permits to study permit applications. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced these new measures to streamline processes, ensure fairness, and better align education with Canada’s job market needs. Here’s a breakdown of the six most important updates:
1. Changes to PGWP Eligibility
Starting November 1, 2024, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria are getting tougher:
Language Proficiency: University graduates will need to meet a CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) level. For those in college or other programs, a CLB 5 or NCLC 5 is required.
Field of Study: Only graduates from specific fields like STEM, healthcare, agriculture, and trades will be eligible for a PGWP. This ensures that graduates can contribute to Canada’s labor market needs.
2. Off-Campus Work Hour Increase
As of November 2024, international students can now work up to 24 hours per week during the academic term, up from the previous limit of 20 hours. This change offers students a chance to gain more work experience and earn more while balancing their studies.
3. No More Flagpoling for PGWP Applications
International students can no longer apply for a PGWP by temporarily leaving Canada and re-entering, a practice called flagpoling. This will officially end as of June 2024. Students will now need to submit PGWP applications online or through regular immigration channels within Canada, helping reduce inefficiencies in the process.
4. End of the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, which expedited processing for students from countries like India, China, and the Philippines, was officially discontinued in November 2024. By ending this program, IRCC aims to ensure fairer treatment for all applicants and eliminate any vulnerabilities within the system.
5. New Spousal Open Work Permit Rules
From 2024, only spouses or common-law partners of students in professional degree programs (such as medicine, law, engineering, or nursing) will be eligible for an open work permit. This change is designed to align Canada’s immigration policies with labor market needs by attracting highly skilled professionals.
6. Study Permit Applications Online
As of December 2024, international students will no longer be able to apply for a study permit at Canadian ports of entry. All applications for study permits or extensions must be completed online. Additionally, if a student leaves Canada with maintained status, they will need to wait until their application is approved before returning to resume their studies.
Preparing for the Changes
Check Your Program: Make sure your program qualifies for the updated PGWP criteria, especially if you plan to work after graduation.
Submit Early: With all permits moving online, it’s important to apply well in advance to avoid delays.
Stay Informed: Consult your school or an immigration expert regularly to ensure you’re up-to-date on any changes that may affect your status.
Need Help? We’re Here for You!
If you’re unsure about the new rules or need assistance with your application, feel free to reach out to us for expert guidance. We’re here to help make your experience in Canada as smooth as possible.
Call: 647-222-6795
Email: info@zandbimmigration.ca | amritpal@zandbimmigration.ca
Book an appointment directly on our website: www.zandbimmigration.caStay informed, and make the most of your opportunity in Canada!