Canada's Six New Regulations for International Students in 2025

3 January 2025 | Canada

Are you an international student navigating your academic journey in Canada in 2025, or do you have plans to study there as well?

Although 2024 has seen substantial changes to the regulations governing the International Student Program (ISP), Canada is still a popular choice for overseas students.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unveiled these new policies with the goals of improving program integrity, guaranteeing equity, and expediting student procedures.

The comprehensive guide will cover every new regulation that international students need to be aware of in 2025, including modifications to study permit applications, new limitations on off-campus work hours, and adjustments to post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility.

1. New PGWP Eligibility Criteria

International students wishing to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) must fulfill updated qualifying standards as of November 1, 2024.

These modifications are contingent upon your program of study and the date on which you filed for your study permit.

Students Applying for Study Permits on or after November 2024:

University Graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Degrees):
- Language Requirement: Minimum CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French) in all language skills.
- Field of Study: No restrictions; all fields are eligible.
Graduates from Other University Programs:
- Language Requirement: Minimum CLB 7 (English) or NCLC 7 (French).
- Field of Study: Must be in a high-demand area in Canada.
College Graduates or Other Programs:
- Language Requirement: Minimum CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French).
- Field of Study: Limited to programs aligned with long-term labor market shortages.

Eligible Fields of Study:

The new standards place a strong emphasis on matching studies to professions that are in demand. The following fields are eligible:

Healthcare occupations
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) occupations.
Trade occupations
Transportation occupations
Agriculture and agri-food occupations

2. Off-Campus Work Hour Restrictions for International Students

New regulations that go into effect last November 2024 restrict how many hours overseas students can work off campus during the academic year.

The former cap of 20 hours per week has been raised to a maximum of 24 hours for students.

In order to assist students concentrate on their studies and obtain useful work experience, this move attempts to strike a balance between their academic and professional obligations.

3. End of Flagpoling for PGWP Applications

As of June 21, 2024, international students can no longer apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at the border, a process commonly referred to as “flagpoling.”

What is Flagpoling?

Flagpoling was leaving Canada for a short time and then coming back to get same-day border immigration services.

In order to improve system integrity and decrease inefficiencies, this practice has since been discontinued.

PGWP applications from overseas students must now be submitted online or through Canada’s standard immigration procedures.

4. Termination of Student Direct Stream (SDS)

In November 2024, IRCC officially ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) visa programs.

Why Were These Programs Discontinued?

The SDS, introduced in 2018, expedited study permit processing for students from countries such as India, China, and the Philippines. However, concerns about vulnerabilities and fairness led to its discontinuation.
By terminating these programs, IRCC aims to create a more level playing field for all applicants and reduce exploitation within the system.

5. New Rules for Spousal Open Work Permits

New requirements for spouses or common-law partners of international students seeking open work licenses have been implemented as of 2024.

Spouses of students participating in university professional degree programs, such as master’s or doctoral degrees, are now the only ones eligible:

Dental Surgery Doctor (DDS, DMD)
Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Law (LLB, JD, BCL)
Medical doctor (MD)
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm), Doctor of Optometry (OD)
Veterinary medicine doctor (DVM)
Nursing Bachelor of Science (BScN, BSN, or BNSc)
Education Bachelor’s Degree (B. Ed.)
Engineering Bachelor’s Degree (B. Eng., BE, BASc)

6. New Rules for Study Permit Applications at Ports of Entry

Last December 23, 2024. The ability of foreign students to apply for a study permit at a Canadian port of entry will be eliminated.

The majority of foreign nationals already in Canada are impacted by this law.

Key Changes:

Study permit applications and extensions must now be submitted online.
If a student on maintained status (formerly called implied status) leaves Canada, they lose their ability to study upon return. They must wait for their study permit application to be approved before resuming studies.

This change ensures better oversight of study permit applications and reduces processing inconsistencies.

How These Changes Affect International Students

Enhanced Academic and Work-Life Balance:

The reduction in off-campus work hours helps students prioritize their education while still gaining work experience in Canada.

Greater Alignment with Canada’s Labor Market Needs:

The updated PGWP eligibility criteria and field-of-study requirements encourage students to pursue programs aligned with in-demand occupations, increasing their chances of securing employment post-graduation.

Increased Oversight and Fairness:

The termination of SDS and NSE, along with the new application processes, reflects Canada’s commitment to a transparent and fair immigration system.

Why You Should Choose Simard & Associates as Your Immigration Lawyer?

At Simard & Associates, we bring expertise, dedication, and a personalized approach to every immigration case. With a proven track record of success, we guide you through the complexities of immigration law with confidence and care. Our team is committed to providing tailored solutions, ensuring your application process is smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Whether you’re pursuing residency, citizenship, or visas, Simard & Associates is your trusted partner for achieving your immigration goals.

For more details & questions, Kindly contact us and one of our Immigration Consultants & Immigration Lawyers will respond to you.

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