Ontario Initiative Open Doors for International Students to In-Demand Jobs

There is exciting news for international students in Canada. Ontario is moving to facilitate graduates' entry into high-demand job sectors that offer promising careers.

The initiative aims to meet the province's labour market needs. It comes in response to the federal government's recent restriction on the number of study permit applications from international students over the next two years.

Ontario has introduced a new allocation plan for study permits, directing 96% of applications to publicly funded colleges and universities. The remaining 4% will be allocated to private universities, language schools, and other institutions. However, the career colleges will not be eligible for any permits as per the new directives from the federal government.

Ontario’s Evaluation Criteria for Institutions

There are criteria for institutions to follow, and they will be evaluated by the following factors:

• Institutions must focus on high-demand fields, including skilled trades, STEM, healthcare, childcare and hospitality.
• They must comply with the 2023 permission levels.
• Adoption of policies to ensure that domestic enrollment does not make up more than 55% of international students in 2023, with exceptions for high-demand sectors
• They must emphasise French-language programs to meet the growing need for French-speaking professionals in Canada.

The federal government will work closely with colleges and universities to help them adapt their programs to meet labour market demands and support Ontario's economic growth.

Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)

The Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is a vital document required for international students applying to study in Canada. It confirms that the student falls within the federal cap on international students.

From January 2024 onwards, the federal government imposed a cap on the number of international students to manage immigration and address the housing crisis. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that it will accept 35% fewer international students than in 2023.

The PAL indicates that a student's application falls within the national cap, as allocated by the province or territory.

Each province and territory in Canada will determine their capacity for international students and issue PALs accordingly. Once a province or territory reaches its allocated limit, it will cease issuing PALs.

Ontario PAL

It is a crucial document for most international students who wish to study in Ontario. It verifies to immigration authorities that the applicant is within federal quotas.

After accepting admission offers and intending to enrol in a postsecondary institution, students should contact their admissions office to obtain a PAL.

For the upcoming academic year, 22 of the 23 universities will maintain their application levels from 2023, with Algoma University being the only one to experience a reduction.

Only 11 of the 24 colleges will continue to accept applications at the 2023 quota, while institutions like Conestoga College and other public-private college partnerships will see notable decreases.

Moreover, starting this May 15, international students enrolling in programs at publicly subsidized colleges run by private partners will not be eligible for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

PGWP is a temporary work permit for international students who graduated from Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)in Canada. These open permits allow graduates to work anywhere in Canada after they adhere to each province or territory's specific laws and regulations.

Measures to Improve Safety and Support for International Students

The Ontario government has introduced several key measures to enhance the safety and satisfaction of international postsecondary students:

• All publicly funded schools and institutions must provide accessible accommodation options for international students.
• The government has allocated over $32 million for 2023–24 to bolster mental health support for all postsecondary students, providing direct financial assistance to institutions through various grant programs.
• The government has proposed the Strengthening Accountability and Student Supports Act of 2024 to enhance the student experience further.
• The passing of the proposed Act of 2024 will introduce measures to support mental health, create safer and more inclusive campuses, and promote greater fee transparency. These reforms will benefit all students, including international students.

Connecting International Students with In-demand Jobs

Ontario's initiative to connect international students with in-demand job opportunities marks a crucial step in enhancing job prospects. By tailoring programs to meet local industry requirements, Ontario ensures that international students gain the skills and knowledge needed for today's workforce.

Students will have access to relevant opportunities aligned with their career goals. As a result, it enriches the educational experience of international students and contributes to the economic growth of Ontario by addressing local labour market needs.

Ontario is fostering success for international students by creating solid partnerships between educational institutions, government bodies, and businesses. All these initiatives will ultimately lead to solid career prospects for international students after their studies in Ontario.

ImmiLaw Global is ready to assist you in navigating Canada’s immigration pathways. From selecting study programs in Ontario to obtaining a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) and handling visa filing, our expert immigration lawyer will provide personalized guidance tailored to your needs.

Contact us to ensure a successful career and a smooth immigration journey in Canada.

Read to Know: How to Overcome Canadian Student Visa Rejections and Avoid Denial