Canada is taking significant steps to tighten its immigration policies for international students. As of September 18, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced new measures that will reduce the number of study permits and spousal work permits for 2025 and 2026. These changes follow an earlier cap announced in January 2024, aimed at moderating the influx of international students and their families.
Table of Contents
- Further Reduction in Study Permits
- A New Focus on Graduate Students
- Stricter Rules for Spousal Open Work Permit Eligibility Criteria
- Already Fewer International Students in 2024
- A Shift in Canada’s Immigration Strategy
- What These Changes Mean for Prospective International Students
Further Reduction in Study Permits
The September announcement sets a stringent cap for 2025 and 2026, with Canada issuing up to 437,000 study permits annually—around 10% fewer than in 2024 and 36% fewer than in 2023. This cap now includes master’s and doctoral students, who were previously exempt, leading to increased scrutiny across all applicants.
A New Focus on Graduate Students
Canada is prioritizing high-potential graduate students, reserving 12% of the capped study permits for those in master’s and doctoral programs. This strategy aligns with the country’s economic needs, particularly in research and technology [5].
Stricter Rules for Spousal Open Work Permit Eligibility Criteria
New rules will narrow eligibility for spousal work permits. Spouses of international students in doctoral and certain master’s programs will no longer automatically qualify. This change aims to reduce temporary residents entering the workforce through this route, potentially resulting in around 50,000 fewer work permits being issued.
Already Fewer International Students in 2024
Early indications show that the cap introduced in January 2024 has significantly impacted international student arrivals, with a 38% decrease observed compared to 2023.
A Shift in Canada’s Immigration Strategy
The latest changes represent a significant shift in Canada’s immigration strategy, balancing the benefits of international students against the challenges of managing infrastructure and labor market demands. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program will also be adjusted to focus on high-demand skills.
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What These Changes Mean for Prospective International Students
Prospective students will face intensified competition for study permits, particularly in fields not aligned with Canada’s economic needs. Students must adapt to a more competitive environment as the government’s policies evolve, focusing on priority sectors