Information for current international students regarding recent study permit caps

Friday, February 2, 2024

NOTE: This information is for current international students. If you're a prospective international student looking for more information, please visit the new Canadian study permit requirements webpage.

Last updated March 26, 2024 

We know you likely have questions or concerns about  the Government of Canada’s recent announcementissuing a cap on new international student study permits. 

 
First, and most importantly, please know that you are a valued member of the University of Waterloo and our campus community. We are committed to supporting you and providing the relevant resources and information you need. Review our frequently asked questions (FAQs) and support resources below. 
  
Current students at Waterloo will not be impacted by these changes. Study permit renewals will not be impacted, and study permit holders will not be affected. We encourage you to visit IRCC’s website regularly to ensure you have the latest information. UWaterloo will email you directly if there is impact from any major announcements.  
 
If you have concerns about your immigration status, contact the Immigration Consulting team.  

FAQs

Current students

Does this policy change affect my study permit or future study permit renewals?

No. These changes have no impact on current Waterloo students. The cap does not impact your current study permit, or future study permit extensions. 

Who does the cap apply to?

The cap will be applied to new undergraduate students applying for their initial study permit for the upcoming Fall 2024 term. The cap does not apply to Masters or PhD students.  

International students whose applications were received by IRCC before 8:30 AM ET on January 22, 2024, as well as those who have already been approved for a study permit and intend to travel to Canada for an upcoming program, do not need to take further action as a result of the cap. 

Do I need to get an attestation letter when applying for my study permit extension?

No. Current students do not need an attestation letter when applying to extend your study permit. 

I am an undergraduate student, am I still eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP)?

Yes. All current students (undergraduate and graduate level) who complete their program at Waterloo are still eligible to apply for a PGWP. 

I am a graduate student; am I still eligible to apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP)?

Yes. All students (undergraduate and graduate level) who complete their program at Waterloo are still eligible to apply for a PGWP as long as they meet all other eligibility criteria.

I am a masters graduate student; would the length of my post-graduation work permit (PGWP) be affected?

Starting on February 15, 2024, 3-year post-graduation work permits will be available to those who are graduating from a Masters degree program that is less than 2 years and who meet all other PGWP eligibility criteria. 

Is my spouse/common-law partner eligible for a spousal open work permit?

Effective March 19, 2024, the eligibility criteria has changed for spousal/common-law partner open work permits.

Starting March 19, 2024, the spouse/common-law partner of an international student may be eligible for an open work permit if the international student has a valid study permit and is studying in either:

  • A Masters or PhD degree program, or
  • One of the specified professional degree programs listed by IRCC

If your spouse/common-law partner either applied for an open work permit before March 19, 2024, or is applying to extend their existing open work permit under this stream, then you must meet 3 requirements:

  • You have a valid study permit, and
  • You’re eligible for a PGWP, and
  • You’re a full-time student at Waterloo

Exchange students

I’m coming to Waterloo on exchange. Does this change impact me?

Resources and support

The uncertainty political decisions like this cause are stressful. There are resources both on and off campus to support you.

Campus resources

Community resources