Canada announces updates for foreign enrolment cap and post-study work rules (2025–2026)

Overview of the News:

Canada’s immigration policies have undergone several changes, especially concerning international students. The country has introduced a study permit cap, adjusted rules for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP), and spousal work permits. These changes aim to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada while ensuring that the country can better manage its immigration system. The adjustments will be most significant in the years 2025 and 2026.

Example Breakdown:

1.Study Permit Cap (2025-2026)

• What It Means for Pakistani Students: Suppose a Pakistani student is planning to apply for a study permit for a master’s degree program in Canada in 2025. Under the new rules, this student will now be part of the study permit cap that limits the total number of international students who can be admitted in any given year. The study permit cap will be 10% lower than in 2024, meaning fewer international students, including those from Pakistan, can be admitted.

Impact: There will be more competition for study permits. Pakistani students might find it harder to get approved for a study permit as Canada reduces the number of overall spots available.

2. Graduate Students Now Counted in the Cap
   • What It Means for Pakistani Students: Previously, students applying for master’s or PhD programs were exempt from the cap. But from 2025, even Pakistani students pursuing graduate degrees will be included in the cap, meaning their admission will be counted in the total number of international students allowed to come to Canada.

Example: If you’re a Pakistani student applying for a PhD program in engineering in 2025, your application now faces additional restrictions. More applications will be rejected due to the overall cap.

Impact: This could make it more challenging for Pakistani graduate students to secure admission, as the cap will limit the number of international students. Universities in Canada, especially those in competitive fields, may have to reduce their intake of graduate students or make it harder to get in.

3. Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
   • What It Means for Pakistani Students:
     • For undergraduate or college-level graduates from Canada, the eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) will be limited if the course is not in a high-demand labor market sector (e.g., healthcare, tech, engineering).
     • Master’s degree graduates will still be eligible for a PGWP of up to 3 years.

Example: A Pakistani student completing an undergraduate program in arts or business might only get a shorter PGWP or none at all, unless they are in a field like technology or healthcare. On the other hand, a Pakistani student completing a master’s degree in engineering will still get the full 3-year work permit, provided they meet other requirements.

Impact: Pakistani students pursuing non-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields may be at a disadvantage when applying for PGWPs. Those pursuing demand-driven fields, however, will benefit from clearer paths to work after graduation.

4.Spousal Work Permits

• What It Means for Pakistani Students: The spouses of students who are pursuing graduate degrees of less than 16 months will no longer be eligible for open work permits starting later in 2024.

Example: Suppose a Pakistani student plans to study a one-year master’s program in Canada. Under the old system, their spouse could apply for an open work permit. However, under the new rules, if the program is under 16 months, the spouse will no longer be allowed to work in Canada during their partner’s studies.

Impact: This may be a deterrent for Pakistani students who are considering bringing their spouse along. Without the ability to work, their partner might find it harder to contribute financially while they are studying. It might also reduce the overall appeal of studying in Canada for those with family obligations.

5.Language Requirements for PGWP

• What It Means for Pakistani Students: Starting in November 2024, all PGWP applicants will need to show proficiency in either English or French (Canadian Language Benchmark – CLB).

Example: A Pakistani student finishing their degree in Canada will need to prove that their English or French skills meet the required level (CLB 7 for university grads, CLB 5 for college grads) if they want to apply for a PGWP. If their language proficiency is below the required level, they will not be eligible for the work permit.

Impact: This could affect Pakistani students who may not meet the language benchmark. Students may need to invest more time and effort into improving their language skills to qualify for a PGWP and ultimately transition to permanent residence.
Overall Impact on Pakistani Students:

1. Increased Competition for Study Permits: With the cap in place and reduced overall admissions, fewer Pakistani students may be granted study permits, making it harder to study in Canada.
2. Fewer Work Opportunities After Graduation: The new PGWP rules could reduce the chances of finding work after graduation, especially for students in non-demand sectors. This is a key concern for Pakistani students who hope to stay in Canada and gain work experience.
3. Impact on Family Planning: The restriction on spousal work permits means that some Pakistani students may choose not to bring their spouses, as they will not be able to work during the study period.
4. Language Proficiency Requirements: Pakistani students will need to ensure that their English (or French) skills meet Canadian standards, or they will face obstacles in obtaining post-study work permits.