On January 22, 2024, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced significant modifications to Canada's international student program. These changes involve the implementation of a new cap on study permit approvals for 2024 and the introduction of a provincial attestation letter policy for international students applying for study permits.

  In the aftermath of these announcements, prospective international students are grappling with numerous questions regarding the implementation of these changes and their potential impact on study permit approvals.

When will these changes take effect?

The new study permit cap and attestation letter process came into effect on January 22nd, following the initial announcement by the IRCC. This implies that, for the remainder of the year, only 360,000 study permit applications will be approved.

However, there is some uncertainty surrounding the attestation letter process, as provincial and territorial governments have until March 31st to finalize this procedure.

How do these changes affect those with acceptance letters planning to arrive in Canada soon?

The revised regulations apply to individuals who did not submit their study permit applications before January 22nd, 2024. Even if you have a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you will be subject to these new policies unless you apply for your study permit before the specified date.

Do I need to wait until March 31st to apply for my study permit?

The timeline for when international students can apply for study permits remains unclear at this point. Provinces and territories are responsible for establishing a process to issue attestation letters to international students, and if this framework is established before March 31st, students may be able to apply for their study permits sooner.

Are there any exemptions to the new cap and process for study permit applications after January 22nd?

According to the IRCC, specific study permit applications will not be subject to the new changes. These include applications from minor children attending primary or secondary school, students enrolling in masters, PhD, or other post-graduate programs, and those applying to extend or renew their study permits.

Will I need IRCC approval to change my educational institution in 2024?

The process for international students wishing to change their Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in the coming year remains unclear. Further clarification from IRCC may be provided as the year progresses.

Is this a permanent alteration to the international student program?

As per the January 22nd release, the new international student cap and attestation letter process is a temporary measure set to be in effect for the next two years. IRCC has announced its intention to reassess the cap on international students for 2025 at the end of this year.