Canada immigration news for international students 2017

Here are some key Canada immigration news updates for international students in 2017:

  1. Express Entry System Update: In January 2017, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a new Express Entry draw system, which prioritizes candidates with higher language proficiency and education levels. This change affected international students who were already in the Express Entry pool.
  2. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Extension: In February 2017, IRCC extended the PGWP program, allowing international students to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduating from a Canadian institution. This change aimed to attract more international students to Canada.
  3. International Student Visa Processing Time Reduction: In March 2017, IRCC announced a reduction in international student visa processing times, aiming to process applications within 30 days or less.
  4. New Language Requirements for Express Entry: In April 2017, IRCC introduced new language requirements for Express Entry candidates, including a minimum language proficiency of CLB 7 in English or French.
  5. International Student Entrepreneur Pilot Program: In May 2017, IRCC launched the International Student Entrepreneur Pilot Program, allowing international students to start their own businesses in Canada and potentially become permanent residents.
  6. Changes to the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): In June 2017, several Canadian provinces, including British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, introduced changes to their PNP streams, including new categories for international students and entrepreneurs.
  7. New Study Permit Requirements: In July 2017, IRCC introduced new study permit requirements, including a requirement for international students to demonstrate proof of sufficient funds to support themselves during their studies in Canada.
  8. International Student Job Bank: In August 2017, IRCC launched the International Student Job Bank, a new online platform connecting international students with job opportunities in Canada.
  9. Changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program: In September 2017, IRCC introduced changes to the PGWP program, including a new requirement for international students to have a valid study permit when applying for a PGWP.
  10. New Immigration Levels Plan: In November 2017, IRCC announced its new Immigration Levels Plan, which aims to welcome 310,000 new permanent residents to Canada in 2018, including an increase in international students and entrepreneurs.

These updates demonstrate Canada's continued efforts to attract and retain international students, as well as to streamline the immigration process for students and entrepreneurs.