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Canada Extends Online Study Policy for Post-Graduation Work Permits

Canada Extends Online Study Policy for Post-Graduation Work Permits

Ottawa, Canada – The Canadian government has announced the extension of a key policy for international students. Until September 1, 2024, students can count online study towards their post-graduation work permit eligibility, provided that less than 50% of their program is completed online.

This policy, initially implemented in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, was designed to support students facing travel restrictions. The latest announcement marks a significant decision for students planning their education in Canada, ensuring they remain eligible for work permits despite the shift to online learning during the pandemic.

However, this facilitation will not apply to students starting their programs on or after September 1, 2024, aligning with the return to in-person education across Canada. The decision reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting international students while adapting to the changing educational landscape.

Note: Before making any decisions based on this news article, it is strongly advised to consult relevant laws and refer to official sources from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Policies and regulations can change, and it is important to have the most current and accurate information.

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New GIC/Living Expense Requirement for Canada Study Permit Application

New GIC or Living Expense Requirement for Canada Study Permit Application

What is the New GIC/Living Expense Requirement for Canada Study Permit Application?

Effective 1st January, 2024 the new requirement for GIC/ living expense for Canada Study permit will be set at $20,635 for a single applicant, previously it was only $10,000.

Ottawa, Canada – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced a crucial update to the financial requirements for study permit applicants in Canada. Effective January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living financial threshold for international students will be increased to better align with the current living expenses in Canada.

This significant policy change comes after years of the requirement remaining static. Since the early 2000s, international students have been required to prove they have $10,000, aside from tuition and travel expenses, to cover their living costs in Canada. However, this amount has not been revised in over two decades, leading to a disconnect between the required funds and the actual cost of living.

To address this, the new requirement will be set at $20,635 for a single applicant, representing 75% of the low-income cut-off (LICO) as determined by Statistics Canada. LICO is a benchmark that reflects the minimum income level required to avoid spending a disproportionate amount of income on necessities. This adjustment will ensure that international students are better equipped financially to handle life in Canada.

The policy update will apply to all new study permit applications received on or after January 1, 2024. It aims to ensure that international students are not placed in financially vulnerable positions upon their arrival in Canada, reducing the risk of exploitation and financial stress.

The Canadian government recognizes that this change might have varied impacts on applicants from different backgrounds. In response, the government plans to collaborate with partners in 2024 to launch targeted pilots. These pilots will explore innovative solutions to support underrepresented groups of international students, enabling them to pursue their studies in Canada more effectively.

This proactive step by the Canadian government reflects its commitment to the welfare of international students and the recognition of their valuable contribution to the country’s cultural and economic fabric. By aligning the financial requirements with the actual cost of living, Canada continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for international education.

If you have applied for study permit and still waiting for your decision or got refusal, please get GCMS notes to know where is your application is stuck or the exact reason for your canada visa refusal.

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Latest Express Entry Invitation Round Summary – December 06, 2023

Latest Express Entry Invitation Round Summary - December 06, 2023

In a recent news report, the focus is on the latest Express Entry draw for Canada Immigration, highlighting the essential details of the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score and other relevant information. The report covers the Ministerial Instructions regarding invitations to apply for permanent residence under the Express Entry system, specifically addressing draw #272, which occurred on December 6, 2023.

Key points of the report include:

  • Date and Time of Round: The draw took place on December 6, 2023, at 16:27:26 UTC.
  • Number of Invitations Issued: A total of 4,750 invitations were sent out.
  • Rank Requirement for Invitation: Candidates required a rank of 4,750 or above to be invited.
  • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: The lowest CRS score among those invited was 561.
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: In case of candidates having the same lowest score, the tie-break was based on the date and time of their Express Entry profile submissions, with the specific tie-breaking rule timestamp being November 08, 2023, at 06:00:13 UTC.
  • Programs Involved: Invitations to apply were sent for various programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Provincial Nominee Program.

This report is crucial for individuals seeking immigration to Canada, as it provides insights into the latest trends and requirements in the Express Entry system. The CRS score, in particular, is a vital factor, as it determines the likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence. With the detailed information provided, candidates can better understand their chances and prepare accordingly for future draws.

If you have applied through Express Entry and still waiting for your decision, please get GCMS notes to know where is your application is stuck.

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Important Update: New IMM1294 Canada Study Permit Application Form Effective December 1, 2023

New IMM1294 Canada Study Permit Application Form Effective December 1, 2023

Ottawa, Canada – In a significant update for international students, the Canadian Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the release of a new version of the study permit application form (IMM1294). This change, effective December 1, 2023, mandates all applicants to use the latest version of the form for their study permit applications.

The IRCC has been actively working towards streamlining the application process for international students. This new form is part of these efforts, designed to make the process more efficient and user-friendly.

Applicants who are planning to apply through the IRCC secure account must ensure they are using the updated version of the form. The IRCC has clearly stated that any applications submitted on or after December 1, 2023, using the old version of the IMM1294 form will not be processed.

The updated form and additional details about the application process are available on the official website: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html. Applicants are encouraged to visit the site for the most current information and guidance.

The IRCC’s commitment to facilitating a smooth transition for international students is evident in this update. The new form is expected to reduce processing times and improve the overall experience for applicants.

International students contribute significantly to Canada’s cultural diversity and economic vitality. The government’s focus on enhancing the application process underscores Canada’s position as a welcoming destination for students from around the globe.

The IRCC advises all potential applicants to review the new form and related instructions carefully to ensure their applications meet all the necessary requirements. For assistance, applicants can reach out to IRCC support services or consult with educational consultants specializing in Canadian study permits.

As the December 1 deadline approaches, students and educational institutions are gearing up to adapt to this change, marking a new chapter in Canada’s approach to international education.

Click here download latest Study Permit Application Form IMM1294

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Canada to Reinstate 20-Hour Work Week Limit for International Students in 2024

Canada to Reinstate 20-Hour Work Week Limit for International Students in 2024

UPDATE: All Study Permit Holders can Now Work Full Time – Apply GCMS Notes from IRCC [Official site]] (gcmsapply.com)

Ottawa, Canada – The Canadian government will be reinstating the 20-hour per week work limit for international students from January 1, 2024. This follows the conclusion of a pilot program that temporarily allowed eligible students to work beyond this limit.

Background of the Pilot Program In the fall of 2022, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Sean Fraser introduced a pilot program that lifted the 20-hour work week cap for eligible post-secondary students. This initiative, aimed at providing international students with more opportunities to gain work experience in Canada and to support the country’s post-pandemic economic growth, started in November 2022 and is set to conclude on December 31, 2023.

Who Could Work More Than 20 Hours Per Week From November 15, 2022, until December 31, 2023, international students could work more than 20 hours per week off campus during class sessions if they met certain conditions:

  1. For those who applied for a study permit (or extension) on or before October 7, 2022:
    • Study permit holders.Those with expired permits but maintaining status and studying full-time (or part-time in the final academic semester).Approved for a study permit but haven’t arrived in Canada yet.
    Additional Requirements:
    • Present in Canada or re-entered by December 31, 2023.
    • Specific work conditions printed on the study permit.
  2. For study permit extension applicants after October 7, 2022:
    • If the original study permit expires between November 15, 2022, and December 31, 2023, they could work more than 20 hours until the permit’s expiration.
    Additional Requirements:
    • Application for the original permit received on or before October 7, 2022.
    • Full-time (or part-time in final semester) study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
    • Specific work conditions on the study permit.

Return to Pre-Pandemic Rules With the program ending, international students will again be limited to working 20 hours per week during school terms. This reinstatement may impact students financially, as the cost for international students for an undergraduate degree program in Canada is significantly higher compared to Canadian students.

No Official Confirmation on Permanent Policy Changes As of now, there has been no official confirmation regarding any permanent changes to this policy. The program’s future, including any potential extensions or expansions, will be communicated publicly by the Canadian government. International students and employers are advised to stay informed about any updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Advisory for International Students Students are encouraged to plan accordingly and keep abreast of any new information regarding work permit regulations and study permits in Canada.

Note: This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

If you have applied through Express Entry and still waiting for your decision, please get GCMS notes to know where is your application is stuck.

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