What are the rumors about Canada's student immigration policy?

Recently, new rumor has been heard about Canada's immigration policy. Due to these kind of news, confusion has increased among students and parants. What are the real facts about this policy ?, a short conversation with Ajit Narayan Singh, Director of Operations of AECC, the largest educational consultancy service provider in Nepal. 

What is happening with the rumors surrounding Canada's student immigration policies?

In January 2022, Canada's Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a temporary two-year cap that will reduce the number of new international student permits by 35%, aiming for 364,000 new approved permits in 2024. This measure is intended to decrease the inflow of foreign students and promote an even distribution across provinces, mainly affecting undergraduate students. However, graduate-level program applicants, such as those for master's and PhD programs, as well as elementary and primary levels, will be exempt from this cap.

Is it true that Canada no longer offers Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)?

This is incorrect. Starting September 1, 2024, only international students enrolled in programs under curriculum licensing arrangements with private colleges (PPP model) will be ineligible for PGWP. This decision was made due to concerns about the quality of education in these institutions. International students at all other Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) will still have the PGWP option.

Can you explain the 3-year PGWP option for master's degree graduates?

Graduates from master's degree programs will be eligible to apply for a 3-year post-graduation work permit. This change aims to retain talented students in Canada, as the government views them as a valuable talent pool. The duration of the PGWP was previously determined by the length of the study program.

What are the concerns regarding PGWP, part-time jobs, and accommodation in Canada?

The PGWP duration for undergraduates is set at 2 years, and students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. Wages may vary by province. The introduction of a Provincial attestation Letter (PAL) is expected to address issues related to job availability and accommodation by ensuring a balanced distribution of international students across provinces. Canada's low unemployment rate of 5.7% suggests that finding employment should not be a significant concern for students.

How does the PAL system work?

The PAL system allows provinces to determine the distribution of student caps among their schools. The federal government collaborates with provinces to refine this policy. Colleges and universities will manage PAL issuance alongside Letters of Acceptance (LOAs), which are necessary for visa processing.Student neednot approach government directly they have one window solution.

Have provinces started issuing PALs?

British Columbia has begun issuing PALs since March 4, 2024, targeting a reduction in applications from 97,000 in 2023 to 83,000, with an anticipated 50,000 visa grants. Quebec and Alberta are also issuing PALs, with updates from Ontario still pending. Quota policy primarily affects Ontario and British Columbia but is seen as beneficial for other provinces.

What should students do in light of these policy changes?

Students are encouraged to apply early, especially those targeting Ontario and British Columbia, where competition for seats is expected to increase. The redistribution of international students and the 35% reduction in permits are likely to create more part-time job opportunities and reduce accommodation costs, making Canada an attractive study destination. Prospects for permanent residency in Canada and other major English-speaking countries also appear favorable.

What is the benefit for students who are applying through aecc Nepal ?

Aecc has partnerships with 43 colleges and 37 universities, totaling 80, and this number frequently changes as new partnerships are formed. aecc is among the few education consultancies with its own office and employees in Canada to support students. we maintain ties across all provinces with colleges and universities accepting international students so we have wide range of options for students.

We are among few consultancies with Tie-up to offer master's degree course-work which is exempted from PAL restrictions, doesn’t need consent from Facility supervisor to enroll & has opportunities for a 3-year PGWP. We also don’t charge students for consultancy or application to Canadian universities or colleges. Our services for students are Free of cost.