Canada is making significant changes to its immigration policies, focusing on enhancing the system to better support economic growth and address ongoing challenges. As part of its 2023-2025 Immigration Levels Plan, which aims to welcome approximately 550,000 new permanent residents by 2025, the country has introduced several key updates. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the recent visa rule changes:
Stricter Study Permit Regulations
To tackle the misuse of study permits, Canada implemented new rules in July 2024. The government now requires foreign students to apply for a new study permit whenever they change educational institutions. This permit must be obtained before the student can start their new program. These measures aim to ensure that foreign students are actively enrolled in their courses, reducing the chances of permit misuse.
Extended Work Visa for Israeli Nationals
In light of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Canada extended its work visa program for Israeli nationals. Initially launched in February 2024 and set to end in June, the program now runs until July 31, 2025. This extension provides Israeli nationals with more opportunities to work in Canada during this challenging period.
End of PG Work Permits at Port of Entry
In June 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced the termination of post-graduation work permit (PGWP) applications at Canadian borders. This change aims to curb the practice of “flagpoling,” where temporary residents leave Canada briefly to reenter and expedite immigration processes. Moving forward, all PGWP applications must be processed through the standard channels.
Immediate Permanent Residency for Foreign Caregivers
Canada has introduced two new pilot programs that grant qualified foreign caregivers permanent residency upon arrival. These initiatives simplify the process for caregivers to secure employment and residency in Canada, making it easier for them to integrate into Canadian society.
Super Visas for Parents and Grandparents
Starting May 21, 2024, Canada began issuing Super Visa invitations to about 35,700 potential sponsors who applied as early as 2020. The Super Visa program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents (excluding those in Quebec) to sponsor their parents and grandparents, helping them become Canadian residents.
Reduced Processing Times for Start-Up and Self-Employed Visas
On April 30, 2024, Canada implemented changes to streamline federal immigration programs, including the Start-Up Visa Program. These updates are designed to reduce processing times and address application backlogs, making it easier for innovative entrepreneurs to establish themselves in Canada.
Increased Work Hours for International Students
To address labor shortages and support foreign students, Canada announced that starting in September 2024, international students will be allowed to work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week, up from the previous limit of 20 hours. This change is part of a broader effort to boost the country’s economy, which continues to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
These changes reflect Canada’s commitment to refining its immigration system to better meet the needs of its economy and society, while also ensuring that the process is fair and efficient for all applicants. For further information on the topic, check out the Immigration and Citizenship section at canada.ca.
