International Students

The International Student Advising team at the Global Engagement Office is here to support you throughout your entire journey.

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Latest Update

The information below is a brief overview and current at the time of publication. As this policy announcement has just been announced and will continue to be clarified in the coming weeks, we will update this page when more information becomes available. 

On Jan 22, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced:

  • A temporary measure will be in place to stabilize the number of new study permits issued for two years. For 2024, the cap will be 360,000 across the country. This cap does not apply to Master’s or Doctoral students.
  • As of Jan 22, 2024, new study permit applications require a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from the province of British Columbia. A process is expected to be in place by Mar 31, 2024. Some students are exempt from the PAL, such as Master’s and PhD students, visiting and exchange students, as well as work permit holders. 
  • If you have received an offer to attend UBC and are not exempt from the PAL, you should not apply for a study permit until the process for getting a PAL has been determined since your application will be returned. However, you can start to prepare your study permit application, such as gathering required documents and writing a study plan.  See IRCC’s page for the latest updates.
  • If you have received an offer to attend a Master’s or PhD program, or are exempt from the PAL, you can apply for a study permit as soon as you receive your offer letter
  • If you are a current student, your study permit validity, study permit extension application from inside Canada and PGWP eligibility will not be impacted by these changes.
  • IRCC has indicated that in the weeks ahead only spouses of students in Master’s and PhD programs will be eligible for a spousal open work permit while pursuing studies.
  • Graduates of Master’s degree programs who are eligible for the PGWP will soon be able to apply for a 3-year PGWP, even if the length of the program is less than 16 months. 

Review the Jan 21, 2024 backgrounder and Jan 22, 2024 news release for more details.

Last updated Jan 24, 2024 at 4:20 pm PT

FAQ for international students

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Taxes

Understand how taxes work in Canada and get a SIN for awards and scholarships, or to work.

Planning ahead

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Step-by-step tutorials

Browse the complete list of tutorials for  instructions on a range of topics, such as applying for or amending your study permit, BC Medical Services Plan, and more.

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Online application reviews

Before applying, review your study permit extension, temporary resident visa, or post-graduation work permit application with an International Student Advisor.

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International Student Advising

International Student Advisors are Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) who can help support you in your experience as a UBC international student.

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Other UBC support and resources

UBC staff are here for you throughout your studies. See resources and services for help with academics, money, health, and more.

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