Canada Tightens International Student Visa Rules, Introduces New Study Permit Cap

Canada has introduced new international student visa rules, including a study permit cap, mandatory Provincial Attestation Letters, higher financial proof requirements, and updated post-graduation work permit policies.

The new measures, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), are part of efforts to manage rising international student enrolment, ease pressure on housing and public services, and strengthen the integrity of the country’s study permit system.

Among the most significant changes is the introduction of a national cap on study permits. For 2026, Canada will process a maximum of 309,670 study permit applications, reducing the number of permits available and increasing competition among applicants.

The government has also made it mandatory for most undergraduate and college applicants to obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) before submitting their study permit applications. The document, issued by the province or territory where the applicant’s designated learning institution is located, confirms that the applicant falls within the institution’s approved allocation. Applications submitted without the required attestation letter will not be considered.

However, students applying for master’s and doctoral programmes have been exempted from the PAL and TAL requirement. Canadian authorities said the exemption is intended to encourage advanced research and attract highly skilled international talent.

Another major adjustment is the increase in financial proof requirements. Applicants must now demonstrate they have sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, travel and other costs throughout their studies without relying on employment in Canada. The revised financial threshold, which took effect in September 2025, will be reviewed annually.

Canada has also revised its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) policy to better align with labour market demands. Greater priority will now be given to graduates in sectors facing workforce shortages, including healthcare, engineering, technology, skilled trades and social services, improving their prospects for employment and permanent residency.

Despite the tighter regulations, Canada remains one of the world’s leading destinations for international students because of its quality education system, post-study employment opportunities and established immigration pathways. The new rules, however, mean applicants will need to prepare stronger applications and begin the admission process much earlier than before.