Event, News by admin Dec 09, 2023
Important - Study Permit Financial Requirement Update
On December 7, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shared some important updates affecting international students. These changes impact study permit applications and GIC requirements. Read on for key highlights.
Minimum Financial Requirement Increase
Starting on Jan. 1, 2024, Canadian study permit applications' minimum financial requirement will increase. Next year, students must show access to C$20,635 (up from C$10,000), plus the cost of their travel and first-year tuition fees. This amount more accurately reflects the current cost of living in Canada.
This change also applies to Student Direct Stream (SDS) study permits, which show proof of financial support with a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). The minimum GIC amount will increase to C$20,635 from C$10,000 in January.
If your students wish to apply without needing to meet this new financial requirement, you must submit their application before January 1.
Extended Waiver on Off-Campus Work Limits
The current waiver on working hour limits was extended to April 30, 2024. This waiver allows international students to work off campus during their winter semester for more than the standard 20 hours/week.
IRCC also mentioned the possibility of permanently raising the off-campus working hours limit to 30 hours per week in the future.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program Updates
Students who begin a Canadian study program before Sept. 1, 2024may continue to study remotely online up to a maximum of 50% of their study program, while still counting that study time towards a future PGWP.
This measure was originally introduced to address mobility restrictions during COVID-19, but will end next September.
Source: www.canada.ca
Leave a Comment