Canada is a great place for students from other countries, thanks to good schools, a friendly and diverse community, and chances for work or permanent immigration after finishing studies. But, international students often face challenges like finding a place to live. The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, shared that starting January 1, 2024, the money needed for living expenses when applying for a study permit in Canada will go up. This will help students be financially ready for life in Canada.
The cost of living requirement for study permit applicants hasn’t changed since the early 2000s, and it’s time to update it. In 2024, a single applicant needs to show they have $20,635, which is 75% of the low-income cut-off (LICO), along with the first year’s tuition and travel costs. This change is for new study permit applications received on or after January 1, 2024.
To support international students, the government plans to test new ideas in collaboration with partners. The goal is to help underrepresented groups of international students in Canada. The Minister also talked about reforms to recognize quality services and support, including housing, from learning institutions.
To ensure that students get the support they need, the government is ready to take action before the September 2024 semester, including limiting visas. Minister Miller also extended some temporary policies, like allowing students to work more hours off-campus and counting online study time for future work permits. These policies help students during the pandemic and post-pandemic recovery.
The government values the benefits international students bring to Canada, both socially and economically. By increasing the cost-of-living requirement, students arriving in Canada will have a better financial start to their studies. The Minister emphasizes that these changes aim to protect international students from financial difficulties and exploitation.