The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced plans to issue 437,000 study permits in 2025, reflecting a 10% reduction from last year’s cap of 484,000. This decision aligns with the government’s strategy to manage increasing demand for housing, healthcare, and other essential services in student-heavy regions.
This marks a continuation of the significant policy changes introduced in 2024, when the IRCC implemented a cap on processed study permits. The move aimed to uphold the integrity of immigration programmes, support sustainable growth, and ease pressures on rental markets and public services. These measures resulted in a 40% drop in international student arrivals last year.
In 2025, stricter application requirements will apply, with most applicants now needing to submit a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL). These requirements have been extended to include master’s and doctoral candidates, as well as applicants already in Canada. Exceptions remain for primary and secondary school students, specific government-priority groups, and extensions for existing permit holders at the same institution and level of study.
The revised policy seeks to maintain Canada’s global appeal as an educational hub while ensuring adequate resources for students and residents. The government emphasises its commitment to balancing growth with sustainability.