How Canada's 2024 immigration policy changes may affect you as an international student.
Proof of Funds Increase
- Effective January 1, 2024, the financial requirements for students have increased to reflect the cost of living.
- For one person, you now require CAN $20,635 to study in Canada.
- This amount is reviewed annually and will apply when requesting a study permit extension.
Online Learning and PGWP Eligibility
If you began your program of study between September 1, 2022, and August 31, 2024
- Your online studies completed from outside Canada can count towards the length of a future PGWP, provided they constitute less than 50% of the program.
If you begin your program on or after September 1, 2024,
- You must complete at least 50% of your studies in person (in a classroom) in Canada. Any semesters spent studying from abroad will be deducted from the length of a future post-graduation work permit.
Spouses of International Students
- As of April 30, 2024, open work permits are no longer available for spouses of new international students at Camosun College.
- If your spouse already holds a work permit, they are not affected by this policy change and can continue working.
- If your spouse already has a work permit and needs to apply to extend it while you complete your studies, they will be eligible for an extension and are not affected by this policy change.
Work Hours
- The temporary public policy allowing students to work more than 20 hours per week off-campus ended on April 30, 2024.
- As part of your study permit conditions, full-time students can work up to 20 hours per week off-campus.
- This limit may increase in September 2024; please check IRCC’s website for updates.
Applying for a PGWP at the Border
- As of June 21, 2024, applying for a PGWP at the Canada-U.S. border via "flagpoling" will no longer be an option.
- Applicants must now submit their applications online.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
- Starting January 22, 2024, all study permit applications submitted from outside Canada (including extensions) require a PAL.
- If you need to extend your study permit from outside Canada, please contact Camosun International to obtain a PAL.
BC Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Graduates with a degree or a diploma from Camosun College may be eligible to apply for several BC PNP streams, including the International Graduate stream, if you meet the eligibility criteria.
- For more information, please watch this BC PNP video
- International students can connect with the Government of BC’s Ministry of Municipal Affairs at: pnpinfo@gov.bc.ca
Need Assistance? We’re Here to Help!
- In person: Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm
- Lansdowne campus – Isabel Dawson (ID), Room 201
- Interurban campus – Liz Ashton Campus Centre (LACC), Room 251
- By email: international_advisors@camosun.ca
- By phone: 250-370-4812, Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm