If you are planning to Study in Canada under a Study Permit in 2024, this will affect you.
The Minister of Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada announced on December 7, 2023, that the proof of living allowance is going up to $20,635 as of January 1, 2024. He mentioned that the reason why they increased this financial requirement is because the $10,000 requirement is outdated and does not align with the real situation in Canada. With the cost of living going up, a lot of International Students (IS)are getting shocked once they get to land in Canada.
If you have been paying attention to the news recently, a lot of IS are turning to food banks. IS should be self-supporting that is why there is a proof of living allowance required. This increase will benefit the IS because it serves a cushion against any possible shock they would experience once they are landed here.
Expect that this financial requirement would also be updated from time to time to adjust with the economic reality in Canada.
Along with this announcement, the Minister also mentioned updates on the following measures:
- IS will continue to be able to work off-campus for more than 20 hours per week until April 30, 2024.
- Time spent for online learning with less than 50% of the program of study will continue to be counted for the length of Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for IS who begins study before September 1, 2024
- The additional 18-month PGWP extension will continue to be offered for IS who holds PGWP expiring on or before December 31, 2023. After which, the measure will expire.
So what do you think about this measure? Do you think it is fair? Write your comments below.
