The Canadian government plans to cut postgraduate work permits by 175,000 over the next three years by implementing stricter regulations, while also reducing spouse work permits by an additional 50,000 during the same period.
The Canadian government has announced new measures to tighten regulations on international student permits and foreign worker programs. In an effort to manage immigration and address labor market changes, Canada plans to reduce postgraduate work permits (PGWP) by 175,000 over the next three years. Additionally, spouse work permits will be cut by 50,000 within the same period.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed the changes on Wednesday, continuing Canada’s recent trend of tightening rules for international workers and students. “We’re granting 35% fewer international student permits this year, and next year that number will drop by another 10%. While immigration strengthens our economy, we must prevent the exploitation of the system by bad actors,” Trudeau wrote on X.
He also announced a reduction in low-wage temporary foreign workers and shorter work terms, urging businesses to invest in the domestic workforce. The move follows adjustments made during the pandemic, with the labor market now requiring further reforms.
Decrease in Student Permits
In 2024, Canada issued approximately 485,000 student permits, down from over 500,000 in 2023. This number is expected to decrease further to 437,000 by 2025. Canadian authorities have also enhanced the visa application process to prevent fraudulent asylum claims, a tactic previously used by some students.
The upcoming immigration levels plan for 2025-2027, set to be released by November 1, 2024, will reflect the government’s goal of reducing temporary residents from 6.5% of Canada’s population to 5%.
New Requirements for Postgraduate Work Permits (PGWP)
PGWPs for international graduates, postgraduates, and students enrolled in master’s or doctoral programs remain valid for up to three years. However, students applying for a PGWP will now be required to pass the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) test, with a score of 7 for university undergraduates and 5 for college undergraduates. This requirement takes effect on November 1, 2024.
Furthermore, 12% of university and college seats will be reserved for advanced degree students. Those pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees must present a Provincial Allotment Letter (PAL) before enrolling, a rule previously only applied to undergraduate students.
Impact on Immigration and Future Job Markets
Immigration consultant Vinay Hari from Punjab commented, “The rules are becoming tougher for students aspiring to study in Canada. Students may want to consider other destinations such as Europe or Australia. It is essential for them to be competitive in order to succeed abroad.”
PGWPs will still be available for graduates of public college programs linked to fields experiencing long-term job shortages. However, the recent changes have left the future of over 300,000 diploma holders uncertain, especially those in fields like business administration and IT, which may not meet Canada’s long-term labor needs. Experts warn that Canadian colleges could face challenges if they fail to offer new, relevant programs.
Language Proficiency and New Testing Requirements
Prospective students must pass the IELTS exam, with a minimum overall score of 6 for undergraduate programs, 6.5 for postgraduate programs, and 7 for nursing and engineering courses. The CLB test, previously required only for permanent residency applications, is now mandatory for PGWP applications as well.
Students skilled in areas such as plumbing, refrigeration, air conditioning, mechanics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, carpentry, healthcare, and nursing are likely to have a better chance of securing a PGWP.
These stricter immigration rules reflect Canada’s effort to balance immigration benefits while addressing domestic concerns about the labor market and residency system integrity.
