latest updates in Canadian immigration
Here are the latest updates in Canadian immigration as of September 2024, highlighting Canada’s evolving immigration policies and ongoing efforts to balance economic needs with humanitarian commitments.
1. Express Entry System
One of the most notable latest updates in Canadian immigration involves the Express Entry System. On September 19, 2024, Canada conducted a new Express Entry draw, issuing 4,000 invitations to apply for permanent residency under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 509, reflecting the high competitiveness of this round.
Canada remains committed to transitioning temporary residents with Canadian work experience into permanent residents, and the Express Entry system is a central mechanism for achieving this goal. This strategy allows Canada to address labor shortages in key sectors while ensuring that those selected have already integrated into the Canadian labor market. This remains one of the most significant latest updates in Canadian immigration, as it demonstrates Canada’s focus on retaining skilled talent.
2. International Student Policy Changes
Another major latest update in Canadian immigration is the policy shift concerning international students. In 2024, Canada is introducing new measures to manage the growing influx of international students, which has led to housing shortages and other resource pressures in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
A new cap on study permits will limit the number of international students admitted each year. This cap is intended to alleviate the strain on infrastructure while ensuring the quality of services available to students and residents alike. Additionally, changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria will focus on aligning student programs with labor market needs, ensuring that students are graduating into fields where their skills are in high demand. This shift marks an important latest update in Canadian immigration, aimed at managing resources while maintaining Canada’s attractiveness as a global education hub.
Furthermore, the government is tightening rules on spousal work permits for international students. This policy change aims to regulate the labor market impact of these permits, ensuring they are linked to high-demand occupations. These changes are reflective of the latest updates in Canadian immigration designed to address both immediate economic concerns and long-term sustainability.