As international students navigate their path to Canadian education, staying informed about policy changes is essential. With revised cost-of-living requirements announced in December 2023, Minister Miller further clarified the fate of three temporary policies impacting you. Let’s break it down:
- Extended Off-Campus Work Flexibility: Good news for existing students! If you were studying in Canada and applied for a study permit before December 7, 2023, you can breathe a sigh of relief. The 20-hour-per-week limit on off-campus work has been extended until April 30, 2024! This means you can now focus on your studies and gain valuable workplace experience without worrying about exceeding the original limit.
- Online Study Counts for Your PGWP (for now): The Distance Learning Facilitation Measure gets a reprieve! Students who began their programs before September 1, 2024, can still count online study towards eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). However, note that this doesn’t apply to programs starting on or after this date. Make sure to confirm your program’s start date within these guidelines!
- PGWP Extension Ends – Prepare Accordingly: Acknowledging pandemic-related market fluctuations, the temporary policy offering an additional 18 months on PGWPs has come to an end. Those whose PGWPs expire by December 31, 2023, remain eligible to apply for the extension, but no further extensions will be granted. If you’re hoping for a PGWP in the future, plan your studies accordingly!
Navigating These Updates with iCanada Experts:
Feeling overwhelmed by these changes and their implications? Worry no more! iCanada experts are here to guide you through it all. We offer comprehensive consultation and support, answering your Canada study permit questions and demystifying the application process. Don’t let updates become obstacles. Connect with our team today and simplify your journey to studying in Canada!
References:
CIC NEWS – Extended Off-Campus Work Flexibility
