As of May 1, 2025, international students hoping to study in Canada will face a new set of visa requirements introduced by the Canadian government. These sweeping changes are designed to curb the rapid growth of student visa approvals, ensure international students are financially and academically prepared, and relieve pressure on Canada’s housing and public services.
If you’re planning to study in Canada, here’s everything you need to know about the latest reforms:
🎯 1. Cap on Study Permits: 437,000 Limit for 2025
Canada has implemented a national cap of 437,000 study permits for 2025, which is 10% lower than 2024. The number of permits is being distributed across provinces and territories, with each region responsible for issuing an attestation letter confirming the applicant is within their quota.
What This Means: Applicants must now secure an attestation letter before applying for a study permit—making early application and strategic choice of institution even more critical.
📜 2. Attestation Letters Become Mandatory
Whether you’re applying for a college diploma, university degree, or postgraduate study, all students must now submit a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL).
Tip: Your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) should guide you through this process, but getting in early is vital due to limited quota spots.
💰 3. Increased Financial Requirements
To prevent financial hardship among students, Canada has raised the minimum proof of funds requirement. Students must now show they have enough money to cover:
-
One year of tuition
-
Living expenses (more than previous years)
-
Return travel costs
Advice: Be prepared to show solid bank statements or other credible proof of financial support.
🎓 4. Stricter Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Rules
The Post-Graduation Work Permit program is now stricter:
-
Students must meet language requirements (CLB 7 for university, CLB 5 for college)
-
Graduates from public-private partnership colleges are no longer eligible
-
Master’s students (even from one-year programs) now qualify for 3-year PGWPs
Impact: This increases opportunities for master’s students, but limits pathways for those in certain programs or schools.
🕒 5. More Off-Campus Work Time – 24 Hours/Week
International students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions (increased from 20 hours). This provides some relief in covering living costs but is still restricted to ensure students focus on their studies.
💼 6. Spousal Open Work Permits – Tighter Rules
Previously, spouses of most international students could obtain open work permits. Now, only students in:
-
Master’s or Doctoral programs
-
Certain professional degrees
-
Designated pilot programs
are eligible to bring their spouses on open work permits.
Effect: This change may affect family planning and discourage some applicants with dependents.
🚫 7. Removal of Expedited Student Visa Streams
Canada has cancelled Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express, which previously allowed for faster visa processing for eligible applicants.
Result: Expect longer processing times and increased competition.
📌 Final Thoughts: Is Canada Still Worth It?
Despite the tighter regulations, Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students—with world-class education, post-study work opportunities, and a pathway to permanent residency.
However, it’s more important than ever to:
-
Apply early
-
Choose DLIs and programs wisely
-
Meet the updated financial and academic standards
These changes are about quality over quantity—and if you’re well-prepared, Canada still offers a fantastic educational and career journey.