In 2024, Canada announced a change in its migration policy. In particular, the state plans to reduce the number of foreigners in the next few years. Find out which key immigration programs Canada has suspended in November 2024, and which ones it has closed completely

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The leadership of Canada is actively working on improving its migration legislation. In particular, a few days ago, the country temporarily suspended the operation of key immigration programs, and closed some altogether forever. What is known about Canada's new immigration policy?

Canada's key migration programs that have been temporarily closed

The Ministry of Immigration, Francophonie and Integration of Quebec (MIFI) presented to the National Assembly a new immigration plan for 2025. According to the document, as of October 31, 2024, applications for two main programs have been suspended: the Quebec Experience Program and the Regular Skilled Worker Program.

- Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) for graduates

The graduate PEQ suspension will continue until June 30, 2025. Applications that have already been submitted will be processed, and candidates selected by Quebec will be able to continue on the path to obtaining a permanent residence permit through the federal immigration service. However, no more applications will be accepted until the end of June.

Reviving the program also has some downsides, however, as many foreigners will no longer be eligible for PEQ when it reopens at the end of June next year. The program, aimed at recent graduates of Quebec higher education institutions, requires applicants to have earned a degree within 36 months of applying. Anyone approaching the 36-month mark for their application this year runs the risk of not meeting the eligibility criteria for PEQ by the time they return.

- Regular Skilled Worker Program (PRTQ/PSTQ, Program for skilled workers)

The PRTQ/PSTQ program has stopped inviting applications for permanent residence. Invitations issued before October 31, 2024 will remain valid for 60 days. Previously submitted applications will be considered according to the current rules. Confirmed job offers will be valid for 18 months.

Quota under Canada's immigration programs for 2025

In addition, it became known that the quota for the issuance of Quebec certificates of selection for PEQ graduates will decrease from 14,500 in 2024 to 4,500-5,700 in 2025.

In total, Quebec plans to welcome 48,500 to 51,500 immigrants in 2025:

- According to the family reunification program – 10,200–10,600 people,

- Reception of refugees – 6,600–7,200,

- 500 business investors.

All these immigration lines will continue to operate as usual.

By May 2025, Quebec plans to launch a new multi-year plan covering both permanent and temporary immigration.

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Canada's immigration programs that the country has closed forever

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has closed the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) programs effective November 8, 2024.

IRCC will continue to process relevant SDS and NSE applications submitted by 14:00 (local time) on November 8, 2024; however, study permit applications submitted at this time or later will be considered in accordance with the normal study permit application process.

- What kind of programs are these?

IRCC launched SDS in 2018 to enable faster processing of study permits for eligible tertiary students of selected nationalities (including China and India). Students from Nigeria had a similar process during NSE.

- New rules for foreign students

As a result of the closure, students who planned to apply for SDS and NSE should now plan for longer processing times (which vary by country).

According to IRCC, the closure aims to provide all students with equal and fair access to the application process and strengthen the integrity of international student programs.

We will remind you! Canada has released its 2025-2027 immigration plan, which aims to reduce the number of permanent residents. For the first time, it includes targets for both temporary residents, including international students and workers, and permanent residents. We have already talked about the main changes in Canada's migration policy in the next 3 years that expats should know about.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.