Tough times for Nigerians, other foreign nationals as Canada announces new visa requirements

SAJIDA DANGADO~

Tough times await foreign students from Nigeria and other countries wishing to relocate to Canada for further studies beginning from January 2024 following the recent review of the country’s visa policy.

In a statement by Marc Miller, the Canadian Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship on Thursday, the country announced an upward record of its proof of funds from $10,000 to $20,000.

“Starting January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants will be raised so that international students are financially prepared for life in Canada,” the statement indicated.

“For 2024, a single applicant will need to show they have $20,635, representing 75% of LICO, in addition to their first year of tuition and travel costs. This change will apply to new study permit applications received on or after January 1, 2024,” it added.

Politics Nigeria reports that Canada has remained a choice destination for Nigerian wishing to study abroad due to its friends work policy for students in the country.

For close to twenty years, study permit applicants for international students have remained at $10,000.

According to the Canadian government, this review, which takes effect from January 1, “will help prevent student vulnerability and exploitation”.

Earlier this week, the United Kingdom announced new rules for international students wishing to school in the country.