In a significant policy shift, the Canadian government has introduced new restrictions on work permits for international students and their spouses. These changes, announced by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, are set to reshape the landscape of international education in Canada, particularly affecting Public College-Private Partnerships.
Effective September 1, international students graduating from programs offered under these partnerships will no longer be eligible for postgraduate work permits. This decision targets the growing trend of international students enrolling in public colleges, which offer shorter, more affordable programs compared to universities but still provide a gateway to coveted postgraduate work permits.
The reform extends beyond the graduates themselves. Spouses of international students, barring those in graduate schools or professional programs like medicine or law, will also face restrictions in obtaining work permits. This move aims to address concerns over the potential abuse of the international student program.
Canada is planning to limit the duration of international study permits to two years. This aims to cut the number issued by 35% from the 2023 level, bringing the total to 364,000. The limit will be allocated among provinces, with each getting a fixed quota based on its population. Provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, which have the most international students, are likely to be most affected.
A recent investigation by The Star highlighted the disproportionate growth in international student enrollment at public colleges, often through Public College-Private Partnerships. These partnerships, particularly prevalent in Ontario, allow public colleges to offer their curriculum through private career colleges. Graduates from these private institutions receive public college credentials, making them eligible for postgraduate work permits and, potentially, a pathway to permanent residence.
As these new measures come into play, it’s evident that the landscape of international education in Canada is set for a significant transformation. The implications for students, educational institutions, and the broader Canadian society are yet to be fully understood. However, what’s clear is the government’s intent to refine and regulate the system to prevent its exploitation while maintaining the integrity of Canada’s educational offerings.
At NPZ Law Group, our U.S. and Canadian lawyers seek to assist clients with regard to employment and family immigration issues. If you or your friends or family should have any questions about any aspect of U.S. and Canadian Immigration Law, please feel free to contact us at info@visaserve.com or you can call our office at 201-670-0006 (ext. 104). We look forward to being able to assist you.Â