Canada has introduced a significant and temporary measure, implementing a 35% reduction in its annual international student intake for the current year. Approved study permits are now limited to approximately 3.60 lakh, a notable decrease from the 5.51 lakh new international students welcomed in 2022. Notably, India contributed significantly, with 2.26 lakh students, constituting 41% of the total international student intake. The Canadian government emphasizes that these measures are in response to the need for a temporary adjustment and will be reassessed in 2025.
These restrictions, while impactful, are designed to be temporary and will not affect current study permit holders, renewals, or students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. Additionally, elementary and secondary education students are exempt from these limitations. However, the new measures will bring changes to the choices available to students, as territorial caps have been introduced, and a province or territory attestation letter will be required for each study permit application. The process for this requirement is expected to be established by March 31. These caps aim to address unsustainable growth in specific provinces.
Starting from September, postgraduation work permits will be withheld from international students entering programs under curriculum licensing arrangements. The government’s rationale is based on the assertion that these arrangements offer less oversight compared to public colleges, creating a potential loophole for postgraduation work permit eligibility. However, graduates of master’s and other short graduate-level programs will still be eligible for three-year work permits.
These measures represent a strategic response by the Canadian government to manage and balance the intake of international students, taking into account both the economic contributions and the need for sustainable growth. The reassessment in 2025 indicates a commitment to regularly review and adapt policies based on evolving circumstances, ensuring that Canada continues to be an attractive destination for international students while maintaining the integrity of its education system and labor market.
