Canada is known to be hub of international students and from several years international students were selecting Canada in a big number for their study abroad destination. But Canada has changed its immigration policy which is having a major impact on arrivals of international students to Canada.
Between January and July 2025, only 49,125 new international students received study permits which is 98,070 fewer than same period in 2024 (Jan-July). In July 2025, just 7,685 new international students entered Canada, less than half of the 17,140 arrivals in July 2024.
Why Are Fewer International Students Coming to Canada?
The decline is directly linked to a series of Canada immigration reforms designed to make the system more sustainable:
- Canada has put annual cap on international students which was introduced in 2024 and further 10% reduction added in 2025.
- IRCC has increased the study visa requirements, applicants now have to meet higher financial thresholds to prove they can support themselves during their stay in Canada.
- Mandatory acceptance letter verification by IRCC this ensures that acceptance letter is genuine and leaves no room of fraud.
This shows that Canada wants to slow down the flow of international students and ensure new international students are better prepared for life and studies in Canada. Canada is a expensive country and increment in funds requirement will help international students financially.
Total International Student Population in Canada
Despite the slowdown in arrivals of students , Canada still have massive population of international students:
- 499,365 people hold only a study permit (as of July 31, 2025).
- 286,465 people hold both a study and work permit.
What This Means for Prospective international Students
For many international students Canada is their favorite destination as it offers world class education system, multicultural environment and post graduation work opportunities. But Canada has implemented study permit caps means fewer study permits will be issued. Moreover, now they need to show more funds to meet financial requirements.
International Students and Work Opportunities
It’s important to note that not all study programs are eligible for PGWP. Canada has introduced tighter rules for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program and restrictions on spouses of international students who want to work in Canada. If you are an international student planning for Canada , you must check the PGWP eligibility of the program.