From January 1 to August 31, 2023, IRCC received over 608,000 applications for new study permits (excluding extensions) and processed approximately 600,000. For the same period in 2022, the Department received approximately 477,000 applications and processed 445,000. This represents a 28% increase in the number of applications received and a 35% increase in the number of applications processed from 2022 to 2023.
Most new regular study permits are processed within the 60-day service standard (57 days, as of August 31, 2023). Likewise, new study permit applications under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) are processed within the 20-day service standard (18 days, as of August 31, 2023).
In 2022, nearly 367,000 individuals held a post-graduation work permit, nearly double the number compared to 2018. Historically, about half of international students obtain a post-graduation work permit within five years of their study permit expiring.
Key Messages
We are reviewing the International Student Program to address a number of challenges, including issues related to program integrity and student vulnerability, which have been caused by the growth of illegitimate actors within the program.
A recognized postsecondary institutions framework (previously “trusted institutions”) could offer expedited study permit processing to applicants destined to institutions that demonstrate they are meeting a higher standard. IRCC will use feedback from institutions, provinces and territories and national education associations to determine next steps. However, no decisions have been made at this point.
In addition, to help protect prospective students from fraud, IRCC will implement an automated tool to systematically verify all letters of acceptance issued from post-secondary Designated Learning Institutions before a study permit is issued. This solution will be launched in the near future.
Supplementary information
Among some Canadian economists, suppression of domestic wages has been linked to the growing number of temporary residents with authorization to work. Since PGWPs are open work permits, data is limited on PGWP holders' wages and occupations. However, there are some indications that international students and graduates may face additional barriers related to language, professional networks, and employer biases when transitioning to work in their field of study.
