Stabilizing International Student Influx

In a recent news release, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced pivotal changes to Canada's international student immigration system. The measures aim to address challenges posed by unsustainable growth, revenue-driven intakes by some institutions, and the resulting pressure on housing, healthcare, and other services. 

International Student Permit Cap

One of the key announcements is the introduction of an intake cap on international student permit applications for a two-year period. For 2025, the intake cap on study permits issued to international students was reducedc to 437,000 - down from 485,000 in 2024. The cap will then be stabilized for 2026 such that the number of study permits issued remains the same as 2025. Provinces and territories will have individual caps based on their population, leading to more significant reductions in areas experiencing unsustainable growth. However, study permit renewals, master's and doctoral degree pursuits, and elementary and secondary education are exempt from the cap. 

Attestation Letters

To implement the cap effectively, provinces and territories play a crucial role. Starting January 22, 2024, every study permit application must include an attestation letter from the respective province or territory. This collaborative approach aims to ensure a fair distribution of international students across the country.

Eligibility for Open Work Permits

In alignment with the changes to the international student permit cap, adjustments are made to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. Starting September 1, 2024, international students enrolled in programs under curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer be eligible for a post-graduation work permit. This move addresses concerns about oversight and eligibility loopholes associated with private colleges.

Additionally, graduates of master's and other short graduate-level programs will soon be eligible for a 3-year work permit, providing them with more time to gain work experience and potentially transition to permanent residence. This change addresses a limitation in the current criteria tied solely to the length of the study program.

In addition to the narrowed PWGP criteria, spousal open work permits (SOWP) are only available to spouses of international students in master's degree programs of at least 16 months' duration as well as doctoral programs and limited professional degree programs such as Bachelor's of Engineering, Law, Science, Education, or Pharmacy. Spouses of students in other study levels, including undergraduate and college programs, are no longer eligible. 


The recent measures announced by the Canadian government demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the integrity of the international student immigration system. By implementing an intake cap, involving provinces, and adjusting the criteria for open work permits, the government seeks to strike a balance between supporting genuine students and addressing the challenges posed by rapid growth. These changes, coupled with recent reforms to the International Student Program, are part of a broader strategy to create sustainable pathways for international students, safeguarding the Canadian immigration system for the future. Contact us to navigate these recent changes and master your study permit application!

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