Canada Reduces Study Permits in 2026, Halves New International Student Intake

Post by : Mina Rahman

In a significant policy shift, Canada will issue approximately 408,000 study permits in 2026, marking a 7% reduction from the current year as it aims to moderate the growth of temporary residents. The primary impact will be felt by new international students, with permits for them dropping sharply to just 155,000—a stark contrast to the 305,900 issued this year. Conversely, returning students seeking extensions will represent 253,000 of the total permits.

As stated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the upcoming 2026 target is 7% below the 2025 goal of 437,000 and 16% less than the 2024 target of 485,000. This decision is viewed as a strategic approach to manage Canada's temporary resident influx while still ensuring avenues for high-skilled international talent.

The count of valid study permits has already seen a decline, falling from over one million in January 2024 to approximately 725,000 by September 2025. Notably, IRCC has reaffirmed its dedication to attracting exceptional international students who will support Canada's economic and innovative landscape.

To bolster the appeal for highly skilled scholars, starting January 1, 2026, master's and doctoral candidates at public designated learning institutions (DLIs) will not be required to provide provincial or territorial attestation letters (PAL/TAL) when applying for a study permit. This change recognizes the vital role that graduate-level students play in Canada’s innovation and economic advancement. A comprehensive list of eligible public DLIs will be accessible on the government’s website soon.

Canada remains a prominent center for international education, hosting the second-largest number of international students globally—around 800,000 enrolled for the 2024–2025 academic year, as indicated by the Institute of International Education’s Open Doors report.

The government's strategy aims to strike a balance between limiting the total count of temporary residents and creating an environment that continues to attract top-tier international students, thereby contributing to Canada’s long-term economic and research goals.