Canada Study Visa Update: IRCC Announced New Changes July 2024

July 9, 2024 Mary

Hello everyone! Welcome back to our channel about Canada immigration. We hope you’re doing great. In this article, we will discuss the new changes announced by IRCC for international students in Canada for July 2024.

To get all the information, please read through to the end.

Overview of Changes for International Students in Canada

In July 2024, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) announced significant changes impacting international students in Canada, especially those seeking a pathway to permanent residence (PR). This article will explain these changes and their effects on international students pursuing studies in Canada.

Challenges in Attaining Permanent Residence (PR) for International Students

International students graduating from designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada face several hurdles in their journey to PR. Despite their academic achievements and contributions to the Canadian economy and society, obtaining PR involves navigating complex immigration policies and meeting specific criteria.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Its Role

A crucial step towards PR for international graduates is obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows graduates to work in Canada after completing their studies, gaining valuable Canadian work experience that boosts their eligibility for various economic immigration programs.

Changes and Potential Reforms to PGWP

The terms and conditions of the PGWP are subject to changes reflecting Canada’s evolving immigration priorities. Recent discussions suggest possible reforms to the PGWP framework, which could affect how graduates plan their transition from temporary to permanent status in Canada.

Pathways to Permanent Residence (PR)

International graduates typically apply for PR through pathways such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) within the Express Entry system. This stream is designed for individuals with Canadian work experience, including those gained during their PGWP period.

Requirement and Eligibility Criteria

PR pathways may also include Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which allow provinces and territories to nominate individuals based on local labor market needs and other criteria. PNPs often have streams specifically for international graduates, providing a route to PR within certain provinces or territories.

Impact on International Graduates

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be challenging for international graduates. Factors such as waiting periods, priority occupations, and language proficiency requirements influence their chances of securing PR. Those unable to obtain PR within the validity of their PGWP may have to leave Canada unless they secure an alternative legal status.

Strategies to Enhance PR Eligibility

To maximize their chances of securing PR, international graduates should focus on gaining relevant work experience, especially in high-demand sectors like healthcare, STEM fields, trades, transportation, and agriculture. Proficiency in French can also enhance eligibility, aligning with Canada’s preference for bilingual candidates in certain immigration streams.

Provincial Programs Targeting International Graduates

Several provinces offer specific immigration pathways for international graduates. Here are some key programs:

Alberta

Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Alberta Opportunity Stream

British Columbia

International Graduate Category
International Post-Graduate Category

Manitoba

Manitoba Work Experience Pathway
Employer Direct Recruitment Pathway
International Education Stream
Graduate Internship Pathway

Newfoundland and Labrador

International Graduate Category
International Graduate Entrepreneur Category

Nova Scotia

International Graduate In-Demand Stream
International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream

Ontario

Human Capital Category
Masters or PhD Category
Employer Job Offer Category

Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan Experience Category
Student Sub-Category
International Graduate Entrepreneur Category

Conclusion

Canada continues to be a popular destination for international students aiming to build their careers and lives. The recent changes highlight the importance of strategic planning and staying informed about evolving immigration policies. International graduates should keep updated on PGWP regulations, PR pathways, and provincial programs to navigate their journey towards permanent residence in Canada effectively.

Key Provincial Programs for International Graduates

Province	Program Name	Description
Alberta	Graduate Entrepreneur Stream	For recent graduates looking to start a business
	Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream	For foreign graduates with entrepreneurial experience
	Alberta Opportunity Stream	For various work experience and educational backgrounds
British Columbia	International Graduate Category	For graduates with a valid job offer
	International Post-Graduate Category	For graduates with advanced degrees in high-demand fields
Manitoba	Manitoba Work Experience Pathway	For graduates with local work experience
	Employer Direct Recruitment Pathway	For graduates with employer support
	International Education Stream	For graduates with innovative ideas
	Graduate Internship Pathway	For research-focused graduates
Newfoundland and Labrador	International Graduate Category	For recent graduates from local institutions
	International Graduate Entrepreneur Category	For entrepreneurial graduates
Nova Scotia	International Graduate In-Demand Stream	For graduates in high-demand occupations
	International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream	For business-minded graduates
Ontario	Human Capital Category	For highly skilled graduates
	Masters or PhD Category	For advanced degree holders
	Employer Job Offer Category	For graduates with job offers
Saskatchewan	Saskatchewan Experience Category	For graduates with local experience
	Student Sub-Category	For recent graduates
	International Graduate Entrepreneur Category	For graduates starting a business