Canada Tightens Student Permit Intake as International Enrolment Declines

Ottawa, Canada: The Canadian government plans to issue up to 408,000 study permits in 2026, marking a significant reduction in the number of international students allowed to enter the country. The new target represents a 7% decrease from 2025 levels and a 16% decline compared to 2024, reflecting Ottawa’s ongoing efforts to manage temporary immigration and ease pressure on housing, healthcare, and public services.

Recent government data shows that the number of new international student arrivals has dropped sharply over the past year. Study permit approvals have also declined as authorities implement stricter controls on temporary resident programs and increase scrutiny of applications.

Federal officials say the measures are intended to create a more sustainable immigration system while ensuring educational institutions can adequately support international students already in Canada. The government has argued that rapid growth in temporary residents has contributed to housing shortages and rising living costs in several major cities.

The changes are expected to have a significant impact on prospective students, particularly those from countries such as India, which has traditionally been the largest source of international students in Canada. Education experts warn that increased competition for study permits could make admissions and visa approvals more challenging.

Despite the reductions, Canada remains one of the world’s most popular destinations for higher education. Government officials say they will continue to welcome qualified students while balancing economic needs and infrastructure capacity.

Students planning to apply for upcoming intakes are being encouraged to prepare applications early, ensure documentation is complete, and verify that their chosen institution meets federal eligibility requirements.

courtesy – AI