Canada experienced a surge in international student arrivals in 2023 with a 29% increase. To streamline admissions, a cap of 600,000 study permit applications is set for 2024. Focus areas include STEM programs, high-demand sectors, and application timing.
Canada has improved the way it calculates processing times for immigration applications, aiming to enhance predictability. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will now use forward-looking processing times for several high-volume immigration programs, such as Express Entry and citizenship grants. This change follows recommendations from an Auditor General report, focusing on improving communication with applicants. Updated service standards are anticipated by the end of the year.
As per the earlier rule, international students were allowed to work for more than 20 hours every week while they were off campus. The rule came to an end on April 30, 2024.