Canada International Student Program Reforms and Study Permits

In 2023–2025, Canada announced sweeping Canada international student program reforms to stabilize growth in international enrolment. The reforms include a cap on new study permits, new provincial attestation letters (PAL/TAL), higher proof-of-funds requirements, and updated visa/work rules. Key changes at a glance:

Study permit intake cap 

Canada is putting a clear limit on the number of study permits it will issue this year, setting the number at 360,000. This cap will stay in place for two years, aiming to keep things steady for both students and local communities. 

Students will need to plan carefully and apply as early as they can to give themselves the best chance under this limit. It is wise to check that all eligibility criteria are in place before applying and to seek proper guidance if needed.

Provincial attestation letters

Most new post-secondary applicants must include a PAL/TAL confirming a spot in the province’s quota. Applications without this letter will be returned.

Students applying for post-secondary programs now need to add a Provincial Attestation Letter to their study permit application. The letter shows that the province has counted the student within its approved spaces for international students. If this letter is missing, the application will be returned, which can slow down plans. To avoid setbacks, students should reach out to their chosen school early to get this document before starting their visa application.

Financial eligibility for Canada International Student Program 

The Canada international student program has introduced new financial requirements to ensure students are ready for living expenses during their studies. Students planning to study in Canada now need to show they have enough funds to cover their living expenses, along with their first year of tuition. 

From January 2024, the proof of funds required is around $20,635, almost double what was needed before. This change is meant to help students manage the cost of living during their studies. The exact amount will be checked each year, so it is wise to look up the latest figures before sending in an application to avoid any missing pieces in the paperwork.

Off-campus work hours

Students in Canada will have new work options while studying. From May 2024, they were allowed to work up to 24 hours each week.. This gives students more room to take part-time jobs while managing their courses. It allows them to earn income and gain local work experience without losing focus on their studies. When school breaks come around, they will still have the option to work full-time.

Students must be enrolled in an eligible program at a designated learning institution, be full-time (or part-time in the final semester under specific conditions), and have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work. If a study permit does not list work conditions, students need to request an amendment before applying for a SIN.

PGWP rules

There are new updates for students planning to work in Canada after graduation. Those who complete a master’s program will be able to apply for a work permit that can last up to three years, even if their program was under two years, as long as it meets the requirements. 

The Canada international student program ensures that students graduating from eligible programs can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit to gain Canadian work experience.

At the same time, students enrolling in certain college partnerships after May 2024 will not be able to get this permit. Checking the details of a chosen program before enrolling will help students plan for the future, especially if they want to work in Canada after finishing their studies.

Spousal work permits

Changes have also been made for partners of international students in Canada. Spouses and partners of students who are in master’s or doctoral programs can still get an open work permit while the student is studying. If the spouse or partner does not qualify under these categories, they may need to look into other types of work permits.

Partners of students in college or undergraduate programs will not be able to apply for these permits unless they already have approval. 

In most cases, the open work permit will match the length of the student’s study permit.