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What is the new immigration policy in Canada in 2024?

SUMMARY

You will get to know the most important updates pertaining to Canada’s 2024 immigration policy. The various updates include the caps applied on international student admissions into the country, stricter rules on financial requirements, changing work permits for spouses as well as students, and further details as to the updates in the Citizenship Act that allow individuals adversely affected by the first generation of the cut-off rule to receive citizenship. The blog addresses improved rules for the Start-up Visa Program, the suspended Self-Employed Persons Program, and a new PR-on-arrival program for caregivers. It also covers innovative work permits for tech professionals, humanitarian policies for conflict zones, and the reopening of the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program. Improved pathways for Francophone immigration, as well as new travel requirements for Mexican nationals, are mentioned. These changes bring both opportunities and challenges and careful planning and informed decision-making will be required to navigate the changing landscape of immigration in Canada in 2024.

You will get to know the most important updates pertaining to Canada’s 2024 immigration policy. The various updates include the caps applied on international student admissions into the country, stricter rules on financial requirements, changing work permits for spouses as well as students, and further details as to the updates in the Citizenship Act that allow individuals adversely affected by the first generation of the cut-off rule to receive citizenship. The blog addresses improved rules for the Start-up Visa Program, the suspended Self-Employed Persons Program, and a new PR-on-arrival program for caregivers. It also covers innovative work permits for tech professionals, humanitarian policies for conflict zones, and the reopening of the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program. Improved pathways for Francophone immigration, as well as new travel requirements for Mexican nationals, are mentioned. These changes bring both opportunities and challenges and careful planning and informed decision-making will be required to navigate the changing landscape of immigration in Canada in 2024.

  • 11 min read
  • September 13th, 2024
Canadian LIC

By Pushpinder Puri

CEO & Founder

  • 11 min read
  • September 18th, 2024

Introduction

Historically, Canada’s attitude toward immigrants was not welcoming; however, with changing times, policies had to change to ensure an immigration system that was balanced and sustainable. In 2024, the Canadian government brought several key updates to their immigration policies that would affect international students, caregivers, tech workers, and many others. These changes are also expected to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers, further support humanitarian efforts, and better regulate the intake of immigrants. But what happens to these changes, and how will they affect people wanting to enter Canada or those already present with a temporary visa? Let’s break it down.

The Struggles of Understanding New Immigration Policies in 2024

It is unquestionable that the immigration process in Canada is very cumbersome and overwhelming, especially considering the endless changes in rules. Many people, including international students, caregivers, and those looking for permanent residency, have found themselves caught in confusion. One of them is now visible from our experience at Canadian LIC: one family was trying to sponsor their grandparents via Canada’s immigration system but was thwarted by changes in the rules. The immigration policies in Canada change every year. However, this year, 2024, has thrown in a couple of layers of complication. Everything from international student caps to changes in citizenship rules can feel like a maze for those who want to make Canada their home.

Here, we navigate the most prominent changes in Canadian immigration into 2024 and help you understand what has changed and what might be impacted as far as you and your loved ones are concerned.

Changes to the International Student Program

Perhaps one of the greatest changes is to Canada’s International Student Program. IRCC introduced a cap on international students admitted into the country in January. For many students, this has proved to be quite surprising and disappointing. The government set a maximum intake of 360,000 international students for the year. Most students are now required to submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), which, this time, has something to do with the province chosen as part of the application process. It was done for a more sustainable program.

Changes in financial requirements are one common pain point for many families represented by Canadian LIC. Students who once needed proof of $10,000 had funds, while in 2024, it doubled more than two-fold to $20,635. Pre-entry preparations to study are no longer enough to meet the new financial threshold for most of them. Another feature added to the open work permits for spouses of students is now restricted, as they would only be eligible if studying for Masters, Doctorate, or professional degrees, hence reducing employment opportunities for families when in Canada.

And it does not stop there. Work is no longer allowed off campus for more than 24 hours per week; again, the rules have reverted to the old COVID levels, another change that students should be prepared for. For prospective students applying to the country, such limitations would need extra planning and probably more resources.

Proposed Amendments to the Citizenship Act

Updates are also on the way to the Citizenship Act. One such amendment does benefit the people who lost due to the first-generation cut-off rule. In December 2023, the Ontario Superior Court declared this cut-off rule unconstitutional. What this means is that anyone who would have been a citizen if not for the cut-off can now gain citizenship.

At Canadian LIC, families affected by this rule can now finally start claiming their Canadian roots. Bill C-71, introduced in May 2024, automatically brings forth citizenship for the effects of this regulation. This offers new hope to generations going forward as well. The government is establishing a framework whereby children, even the second generation, will stand a chance of becoming citizens if they can prove to have a significant connection to Canada.

This change becomes especially meaningful for those whose family members are abroad and could not transmit their citizenship previously. If such is the case for you or your family, it is now time to look into these new opportunities.

Changes to the Start-up Visa and Self-Employed PR Programs

Entrepreneurs and business owners who seek to call Canada home will also be in the midst of the changes the 2024 immigration rules bring about. The Start-up Visa Program has tightened up its requirements, with a limit on each designated organization sponsoring no more than ten start-ups with permanent residence applications.

Meanwhile, the Self-Employed Persons Program is currently being put on hold until 2027. This is a major disappointment for many of our clients here at Canadian LIC, who rely upon this program for permanent residence. Processing times had stretched to over four years, causing the IRCC to block new applications while they reformed the program. However, if you have an application in the system already, that will continue.

If your start-up is supported by a Canadian and/or part of a Tech Network, there is much cause for optimism. Businesses such as these can be processed with priority under the SUV program, shortening pathways to permanent residence. Our team at Canadian LIC often assists clients on just how many entrepreneurial routes to possible immigration success.

PR on Arrival for Caregivers

One of the most welcome changes in 2024 is the introduction of PR on Arrival for caregivers. Caregivers were essentially required to have at least one year of work experience in Canada before submitting their application for permanent residence. Now, if you are a caregiver and hold a Canadian work permit, you may be eligible to obtain PR soon after your arrival to the country. Especially to those families giving important care services to individuals who require it, as their anxiety over waiting in the sometimes very long and unpredictable line for PR has come to an end.

Changes have also opened up job opportunities for caregivers. They can now be permitted to seek employment in temporary and part-time care organizations. For caregivers who, in the past, have benefited from Canadian LIC, this means they no longer have to wait for a full year of practical life before settling down permanently into Canadian life. If you are a caregiver intent on immigrating, this program provides a better, less circuitous way to permanent residence.

PR on Arrival for Caregivers

One of the most welcome changes in 2024 is the introduction of PR on Arrival for caregivers. Caregivers were essentially required to have at least one year of work experience in Canada before submitting their application for permanent residence. Now, if you are a caregiver and hold a Canadian work permit, you may be eligible to obtain PR soon after your arrival to the country. Especially to those families giving important care services to individuals who require it, as their anxiety over waiting in the sometimes very long and unpredictable line for PR has come to an end.

Changes have also opened up job opportunities for caregivers. They can now be permitted to seek employment in temporary and part-time care organizations. For caregivers who, in the past, have benefited from Canadian LIC, this means they no longer have to wait for a full year of practical life before settling down permanently into Canadian life. If you are a caregiver intent on immigrating, this program provides a better, less circuitous way to permanent residence.

Reopening of the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program

Here, the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program, suspended in 2019, is now reopened. This will give you a good investment opportunity if you are in Canada and possess a net worth of over $2,000,000. The five-year investment called for in this provincial investment program is only for people with a minimum net worth of over $2,000,000.

While many investors will welcome such a chance, we have observed that the conditions of residence place difficulties. Successful applicants must spend at least 12 months within a two-year period of receiving their work permit in Quebec. In this span of time, the investor must complete six months, and the rest can be fulfilled either by him or her or his/her spouse.

This program entails a lot of monetary investment. You have to commit a $200,000 non-refundable contribution to Investissement Québec. The government will then return you $1,000,000 after five years, but you will not be charged any interest. For many, the route has remained attractive because one would eventually end up acquiring permanent residence in Canada.

New Innovation Stream Employer-Specific Work Permit

It’s time to take a seat on the bench of global leaders in the tech world as Canada introduces its new Innovation StreamWork Permit. Introduced last March 2024, this work permit is in the Canadian Tech Talent Strategy and presents an exciting opportunity for some of the most technically skilled workers in that sector. Applicants who have received job offers in the TEER 0 or 1 categories from an employer in the Global Hyper Growth Project can apply for an LMIA-exempt, employer-specific work permit for up to five years.

This is often a faster processing route and a straightforward one for those working in the cutting-edge tech sectors to gain entry into Canada. We have seen clients at Canadian LIC who work in AI, software development, and other fields thrive under programs similar to this. If you are working in a tech field, this may be your ticket to getting that work permit and eventually permanent residence.

Crisis Responses: Immigration Support for Conflict Zones

While conflict continues driving people out of many countries around the world, it is no doubt that Canada continues supporting humanitarian causes. In 2024, the state introduced regional-based policies for victims of war or internal conflict from places like Sudan, Israel, Palestine, Haiti, Iran, and Ukraine.

Such stopgap policies have served as a comfort to many people caught in crises and have acted as a lifeline towards resettlement into Canada or extension of stay. For example, Sudan nationals who have family members residing in Canada can make an application under the family-based permanent residence pathway, a stopgap measure that is valid until 2025 or until 3250 applications are processed. Similarly, the people of Haiti who are presently living in Canada can also apply for fee-exempt study or work permits that provide much-needed stability to those who can’t go home because of the situation in Haiti.

The IRCC introduces temporary measures to facilitate the stay of Iranian nationals in Canada. As such, the exemption from payment for work and study permits for these Iranians will ensure their longer stay in the country. These measures shall be implemented until February 28, 2025. It has thus proven a lifeline for Iranian nationals to stay in Canada during these challenging times. In addition, Ukrainian citizens who are eligible for the Canada–Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program were also provided an extension of time to travel to Canada and submit applications for study or work permits exempt from fees, and this deadline was now July 31, 2024.

They have really helped our clients at Canadian LIC a lot, especially when they have family there in these war-torn zones. For purposes of bringing them to Canada or extending their stay, they have provided consolation in such times. For such people, the thing is to act fast and be well-informed so that you don’t miss a particular quota for applying at a specific time.

New Requirements for Mexican Nationals

Applicable from February 2024, the new travel requirements apply to Mexican citizens entering Canada using a valid US non-immigrant visa or who have been issued with a Canadian visa within the last ten years. Such travellers must hold an electronic Travel Agreement or eTA while entering Canada. The change also cancels any eTAs already in place except in situations where the arriving traveller has a valid work or study permit.

For Mexican nationals with a valid visa in the United States, visa-free travel to Canada remains an option. One must be aware of the new rules in the air, though, as they may hinder a trip or study in Canada. Changes like these really do complicate things and mar travel plans, especially for those who depend on business trips or personal ones that fly back and forth between Canada and Mexico.

It is, therefore, important to apply in advance for the appropriate travel authorization and ideally before the date of travel. If you need help with navigating your way through the eTA process, or if you have further questions regarding the visa requirements, our team at Canadian LIC is at hand to answer all your queries.

Parents and Grandparents Intake

For many families, sponsoring parents or grandparents for permanent residency is a top priority. In 2024, the Canadian government has set an intake target of 35,700 applicants for this program. According to the Canadian government, this year, 2024, it will admit 35,700 applicants into this program. The applicants chosen will be randomly selected from the pool that submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020. Once invited, their application is due by the date stipulated by the IRCC.

We have seen here at Canadian LIC just how hard this process is, especially in scenarios where families cannot wait to see a loved one. The randomness of the selection process does feel like a waiting game; however, with this year’s increase in intake numbers, the hope has changed for those who have been waiting since 2020. Suppose you are that kind of person hoping to sponsor your parents or grandparents. In that case, you have to prepare all your documents and your financial information and have them ready for submission once an invitation is sent.

Prioritizing Francophone Immigration

In January 2024, Canada launched a statement outlining its Policy on Francophone Immigration. This step is part of the effort that the country is taking to raise the number of French-speaking immigrants arriving in Canada. To implement that, it has come up with a 5-year plan, taking into account considerations to strengthen collaboration within the community as well as the broadening of French-speaking talent capacity within and outside Canada.

The policy further utilizes programs such as the Francophone Mobility Program, which was increased in 2023, and the language-based system utilizes the Express Entry system that favours French-speaking applicants. For the calendar year 2024, the number of intakes for French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec aims at 26,100 applications.

At Canadian LIC, we envision and see firsthand how policy measures impact such families who may want to preserve their language and cultural heritage yet are compelled to relocate to Canada. This may be an excellent opportunity for someone interested in reconnecting with his/her native language or for a French speaker who may be interested in exploring potential avenues to permanent residence. Such support for linguistic diversity continues to make Canada an increasingly more accessible destination for Francophone immigrants.

Recent Updates and Changes in Canadian Immigration Policies

How Canadian LIC Can Help You with These Immigration Policy Changes

At Canadian LIC, we realize how overwhelming and confusing the changes in Canadian immigration policy can be. Most of our clients face identical challenges: students looking for new financial requirements, other families seeking reunification through sponsorships, and workers who are trying to make sense of the new work permits.

Here is how we can assist you:
  • International Students: If you’re dealing with the challenges of the new intake cap or increased financial proof requirements, we can help you plan ahead and prepare your application, ensuring you meet all the new criteria.
  • Citizenship Act Changes: If the first-generation cut-off rule has impacted you and you are now eligible for citizenship, we can guide you through the application process to reclaim your Canadian status.
  • Entrepreneurs: If you’re a start-up founder or a self-employed individual, we can help you understand the new rules and how they affect your application for permanent residence.
  • Caregivers: The new PR on-arrival programs offer a faster route to permanent residence, and we’re here to ensure you meet the qualifications and take advantage of this opportunity.
  • Crisis Responses: If you or your family members have been affected by global conflicts, we can help you navigate the temporary immigration policies that offer a lifeline to those in need of safety and stability in Canada.
  • Francophone Immigration: If you’re a French speaker, we can help you explore the programs designed to increase Francophone immigration and make sure your application is well-positioned for success.

Understanding the 2024 policies on immigration shouldn’t be stressful. Canadian LIC is your trusted partner that knows the system inside out, and years of experience mean we can anticipate challenges and guide you through every step along the way to make your journey to Canada as smooth as possible.

Therefore, whether you’re an international student, caregiver, entrepreneur, or someone planning to sponsor your loved one, Canadian LIC will make the new policies clear to you and bring you one step closer to your dream of becoming a Canadian.

Therefore, summarizing all of it, the new changes in immigration policy in Canada for 2024 seem to present some potential opportunities and challenges. Whether it is placing a cap on international students, a new work permit for tech workers, or expansion of Francophone immigration, there is much to take in. Proper planning and guidance could well enable a smooth maneuvering of these changes. Canadian LIC is the best insurance brokerage here to walk you through the process, ensuring that, at every step of the way, you are given all the information and tools you need to succeed in Canada’s changing and dynamic immigration environment.

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FAQs About the New Immigration Policy in Canada in 2024

In 2024, Canada placed a cap of 360,000 international students for the year. Many students now need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) as part of their application. At Canadian LIC, we’ve seen students struggle with the new financial requirement, which has increased from $10,000 to $20,635. Families planning to bring their spouses also face new challenges, as open work permits are now only available to spouses of students in Master’s, Doctoral, or professional programs.

Canada’s first-generation cut-off rule was declared unconstitutional, meaning anyone who would have been a citizen if not for this rule could now gain citizenship. At Canadian LIC, we’ve helped many clients affected by this change, and it’s been life-changing for families hoping to claim their Canadian citizenship.

In 2024, the Start-up Visa Program now limits each designated organization to supporting 10 start-ups for permanent residence. This is something we’ve seen clients struggle with at Canadian LIC, as the competition for these spots is tough. However, if your start-up has Canadian backing, you could qualify for priority processing, which helps fast-track the process.

Caregivers can now receive permanent residence (PR) as soon as they arrive in Canada with a valid work permit. This is a big change from the previous requirement of one year of work experience. Many caregivers we work with at Canadian LIC have found this update gives them more stability and security as they settle in Canada.

This program is back in 2024 and requires applicants to have a net worth of over $2,000,000. Applicants must make a $1,000,000 investment for five years and contribute an additional $200,000. At Canadian LIC, we’ve seen investors find the residency requirement manageable as long as they plan for the 12-month stay within two years of arriving in Quebec.

Canada introduced special policies for people from countries affected by conflicts, like Sudan, Haiti, Iran, Israel, Palestine, and Ukraine. These policies allow for temporary resident permits, work and study permits, and even family-based permanent residence pathways. Clients at Canadian LIC who have family members in these areas have benefitted from these policies, helping them bring their loved ones to safety in Canada.

Since February 2024, Mexican nationals who hold a valid US visa or have previously held a Canadian visa must apply for an electronic Travel Agreement (eTA) to enter Canada. At Canadian LIC, we’ve seen some confusion around this, especially with clients whose travel plans were disrupted due to cancelled eTAs. It’s important to apply for the correct authorization before travelling.

Yes, in 2024, 35,700 applicants will be invited to sponsor their parents or grandparents. Applicants from the 2020 pool will be selected at random, and if chosen, you’ll have to submit your sponsorship application by the given deadline. Canadian LIC has worked with families through this process, and while the selection is random, having everything prepared can make the application smoother.

Canada is prioritizing Francophone immigration in 2024, with a goal of accepting 26,100 applications from French-speaking immigrants outside of Quebec. We’ve worked with several French-speaking clients at Canadian LIC who have used this as a fast-track opportunity to settle in Canada.

At Canadian LIC, we understand how these policy changes can affect your immigration plans. Whether you’re a student, caregiver, entrepreneur, or someone trying to sponsor a family member, we help our clients understand the system and ensure they’re on the right path. From preparing documents to understanding new rules, we’re here to support you in making Canada your home.

These FAQs address the most significant questions relating to the new immigration policy that will come into play in Canada by 2024. For even more detailed questions or simply for clarification, feel free to explore all of your options as part of this year’s changes.

Sources and Further Reading

  1. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
    Visit the official IRCC website for detailed updates on immigration policies, program changes, and new application processes in 2024.
    https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
  2. Quebec Immigration Investor Program
    For more details on the reopening of the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program and its requirements.
    https://www.immigration-quebec.gouv.qc.ca 
  3. Government of Canada – Start-up Visa Program
    Learn about the latest changes to the Start-up Visa Program, including designated organizations and eligibility.
    https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/start-visa.html 
  4. Canadian Citizenship Act Amendments
    Information on the recent amendments to the Citizenship Act and Bill C-71.
    https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/csj-sjc/pl/charter-charte/citizen.html 
  5. Francophone Immigration Strategy
    Find out more about Canada’s strategy to increase Francophone immigration and how it impacts new applicants.

These sources provide in-depth information about the new immigration policies and how they can affect your journey to Canada.

Key Takeaways

  • International Student Changes: Canada introduced a cap of 360,000 international students for 2024, with new financial requirements and work-hour limitations.
  • Citizenship Act Amendments: Individuals previously excluded by the first-generation cut-off rule can now gain citizenship under the new changes.
  • Start-up Visa Limits: Designated organizations can now support a maximum of 10 start-ups, and the Self-Employed Persons Program is paused until 2027.
  • PR on Arrival for Caregivers: Caregivers can now receive permanent residence upon arrival without needing a year of Canadian work experience.
  • Quebec Investor Program Reopens: High-net-worth individuals can invest $1,000,000 in Quebec and apply for permanent residence.
  • Tech Talent Innovation Stream: A new work permit for highly skilled tech workers offers employer-specific, 5-year permits.
  • Crisis Response Policies: Temporary immigration policies support nationals from conflict-affected regions, including Sudan, Haiti, Iran, and Ukraine.
  • New Requirements for Mexican Nationals: Mexican nationals with US visas need to apply for an eTA to travel to Canada.
  • Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship: 35,700 applicants will be invited to sponsor their parents or grandparents in 2024.
  • Francophone Immigration: Canada aims to increase French-speaking immigrant intake with 26,100 applications targeted for 2024.
Canadian LIC

By Pushpinder Puri

CEO & Founder

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