On September 18, 2024, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced significant updates.
Key Updates from the Announcement
The federal government is taking steps to reduce the number of temporary residents from 6.5% to 5% of Canada’s total population by 2026.
1. International Student Study Permits
The intake cap on international student study permits will be reduced by 10% for 2025,
The minister announced this will remain in 2026. This reduction is intended to manage the increasing number of temporary residents while still welcoming students who can meet Canada’s labour market needs.
2. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes
The PGWP will undergo significant updates this fall to align better with immigration goals. All applicants will soon require a minimum language proficiency: CLB 7 for university graduates and CLB 5 for college graduates. Graduates from programs linked to long-term labour shortages will still be eligible for work permits of up to three years.
Eligibility for Spousal Work Permits
Recent changes to Canada’s immigration policy have introduced specific eligibility criteria for spousal work permits. Here’s a breakdown:
- Spouses of International Students: The eligibility for work permits will now be restricted to the spouses of master’s degree students whose programs are at least 16 months in duration.
- Spouses of Foreign Workers: For those whose partners hold work permits, eligibility will be limited to spouses of foreign workers in management or professional occupations, as well as those in sectors facing significant labour shortages.
Implications for Spousal Work Permit Eligibility
This new restriction raises important questions regarding the definition of “management” and “professional occupations.” For instance, will this include all managers and executives? How will the government categorize professionals on specific treaties, such as those related to IT or engineering?
It’s crucial to understand that while positions in health and construction are clearly prioritized due to labour shortages, there are ambiguities surrounding other sectors. For example, will highly skilled analysts in IT qualify under these new guidelines?
The details of how these regulations will be implemented will significantly impact families and individuals looking to establish their lives in Canada. The success of these changes hinges on transparency and clarity from the Immigration Department.
Conclusion
While these updates aim to create a more sustainable immigration framework, they also highlight the need for further clarification on eligibility criteria, particularly concerning spousal work permits. As the situation develops, it is crucial for potential immigrants and stakeholders to stay informed about the implications of these changes.
The ongoing dialogue between the government and community leaders will be key to ensuring that Canada remains a welcoming and fair environment for newcomers.
At Jain Immigration Law, we are here to guide you through the immigration process and provide support. Contact us today if you have any questions about these new updates and learn more about how we can assist you.