Canada is set to roll out major immigration updates, including new language proficiency rules for work permits and tighter restrictions on spousal work permits. The changes aim to reduce temporary resident numbers while addressing labor shortages in critical sectors.
Canada is set to introduce significant updates to its immigration system and work permit rules, focusing on international students, foreign workers, and permanent residents.
These changes aim to reshape the country’s approach to managing temporary residents, especially as the number of international students and temporary foreign workers has surged in recent years. Below are the key updates you should be aware of.
Proposed Rules for Temporary Residents
Canada is introducing five major changes to work permit rules for temporary residents, including new language requirements and stricter eligibility starting November 2024.
1. New Immigration Levels Plan by November 1
By November 1, 2024, Canada will unveil its latest Immigration Levels Plan for the years 2025 to 2027. This will outline the government’s approach to adjusting immigration targets and ensuring a balanced intake of international students, temporary foreign workers, and permanent residents.
2. Language Proficiency Requirement for Work Permits
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a minimum language proficiency requirement for anyone applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Starting November 1, 2024, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in either French or English.
This is aimed at helping temporary residents transition more smoothly to permanent residency and adapt to Canada’s evolving economic conditions.
• University Graduates: Must achieve Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7.
• College Graduates: Must achieve CLB level 5.
3. Reducing Temporary Resident Numbers
To better manage its population, Canada plans to reduce the number of temporary residents. The current level of 6.5% of the total population will be brought down to 5%. This reduction will be part of the upcoming 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan.
4. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Restrictions
Graduates from programs not linked to occupations in long-term shortage will see their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility reduced to two years. Canada will be implementing stricter eligibility rules for the PGWP program:
• Canada expects this change to result in 175,000 fewer PGWPs over the next three years.
• Graduates from public colleges in fields linked to long-term labor shortages will continue to be eligible for up to a three-year PGWP.
5. Spousal Open Work Permit Changes
Another major change involves the spousal open work permit. Eligibility will be restricted to the spouses of highly skilled workers in sectors with critical labor shortages, such as:
• C-suite executives
• Scientists
• Engineers
• Lawyers
• Technicians
Spouses of students in specific doctoral, master’s, and professional programs will also see limited work permit eligibility. However, those in the healthcare and construction sectors will continue to qualify.
The government anticipates around 50,000 fewer work permits for student spouses and 100,000 fewer work permits for spouses of workers in non-critical sectors.
Canada’s Future Immigration Strategy
Immigration Minister Marc Miller will provide further insights into Canada’s future immigration policies as he rolls out these updates through the annual Immigration Levels Plan, set for release by November 1, 2024.
Key Takeaways
• Canada’s new rules focus on reducing temporary residents, particularly through stricter work permit requirements.
• Language proficiency in French or English will be a key factor for post-graduation work permit applicants.
• Spousal work permit eligibility will be narrowed to focus on critical sectors.
• The changes aim to create a more sustainable and balanced immigration system.
These adjustments highlight Canada’s long-term strategy to manage its immigration flow while addressing labor shortages in key sectors. Keep an eye out for the official announcement on November 1, 2024, for more details.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/canada-proposes-5-major-changes-to-work-permit-rules-starting-november/
