In 2025, Canada is making significant changes to the international student program to manage its growing number of international applicants, while easing pressure on housing, healthcare, and other services. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has finalized provincial and territorial allocations for study permits under the 2025 cap, building upon the changes introduced in 2024.
Key Highlights:
- Total Study Permits Issued: 437,000 study permits for 2025, marking a 10% decrease from the 2024 cap.
- Graduate Student Allocations: The graduate student sector has grown steadily, with 73,282 study permits planned for graduate degree students.
- Provincial Allocations: Each province and territory will have its own allocations for students requiring provincial attestation letters (PAL/TAL). Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec are expected to see the largest share of study permits.
What’s New for 2025:
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) Requirement: As of 2025, master’s and doctoral students, along with most applicants applying from within Canada, are required to submit a PAL/TAL. This requirement aims to better manage study permits and address local demands.
- Increased Focus on Graduate Students: Graduate students will be given dedicated spaces, with allocations based on 2023 study permit issuances. This cap will help maintain a sustainable number of graduate international students across Canada.
- Exemptions: Certain groups, including primary and secondary school students, and some vulnerable cohorts, will remain exempt from the PAL/TAL requirement.
- Impact of Allocations by Province:
- Ontario: Expected to receive 181,590 study permits (graduate and PAL/TAL-required cohorts combined), the highest number across the provinces.
- British Columbia: With an expected 76,087 study permits, BC continues to be a top destination for international students.
- Quebec: Quebec will issue 162,742 study permits, with a strong focus on managing graduate and other key sectors.
- Changes in DLI Compliance: New regulations require designated learning institutions (DLIs) to comply with student reporting and letter of acceptance verification. Institutions failing to comply could face a suspension period of up to one year.
Conclusion: The 2025 international student cap and provincial allocations are designed to ensure Canada maintains a balanced and sustainable international student program, with a focus on supporting economic and regional needs. The changes will help manage the number of incoming students while supporting graduate programs and easing pressures on local services.
For students looking to apply, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest requirements, including the PAL/TAL for study permits. Each province’s allocation reflects local priorities and the expected demand for international talent, so students should carefully consider their study destination.
For personalized advice or assistance with your application, contact Visaserve Immigration Law PC at info@visaserve.ca or call 905-203-2266.
