Important Updates in Immigration Policies for International Students

In the dynamic landscape of international education, staying abreast of immigration updates is paramount for students aspiring to study abroad. Recent changes in Canada's immigration policies bring forth crucial adjustments that directly impact the journey of international students.

In addition, it's important to note that these changes are scheduled to be in effect from January 2024 unless stated otherwise. This timeline provides clarity for prospective international students and stakeholders, allowing them to plan and adapt to the updated immigration policies in a timely manner.

Verification of Letter of Acceptance:

In a move aimed at ensuring the authenticity of the admission process, all letters of acceptance submitted by applicants will now undergo verification. This verification process will be conducted collaboratively by the issuing institution and the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This step underscores the commitment to maintaining the integrity of the admission process and fostering a transparent environment for international students.

Financial Requirements Adjustment:

Financial viability is a cornerstone of a successful international education experience. Recognizing this, adjustments have been made to the financial requirements for single applicants arriving in Canada for study. The minimum required amount has been significantly increased from 10,000 CAD to 20,635 CAD. Prospective students must now demonstrate their ability to possess and manage these funds throughout their one-year stay in Canada. This change reflects a proactive approach to ensuring that students have the financial means to sustain themselves during their educational journey.

Off-Campus Work Hour Expansion:

Responding to the evolving needs of international students, there is a potential expansion of off-campus work hours on the horizon. If implemented, this adjustment would increase the limit from 20 hours per week to 30 hours per week, effective after April 30, 2024. Concurrently, the full-time work policy for international students is extended until April 2024. It's imperative to note that this extension is conditional; students who discontinue their studies or transition to part-time status will be ineligible for off-campus work opportunities.

Updated Study Permit Application Form:

A procedural change comes into effect as of December 1, 2023, with the introduction of a new version of the study permit application form, IMM1294. To ensure a seamless application process, applicants are advised to use the updated form. The use of the old version of the form will not be accepted, emphasizing the importance of staying current with the latest application requirements. Extension of Distance Learning Measures:

Acknowledging the continued impact of global circumstances on education delivery, the measures allowing distance learning for international students have been extended. This extension offers students the flexibility to engage in academic pursuits through distance learning modalities. The decision to prolong these measures reflects a commitment to supporting international students in navigating the challenges posed by the evolving landscape of education.