Study Permit Caps
The study permit cap system is now in full effect for 2025, with fewer categories of applicants exempt from Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirements.
Notably, graduate students now require PALs, and Master's and PhD students are no longer automatically exempt.
Extensions also require PALs unless the student remains at the same institution and level of study.
Increased Financial Requirements
From 1 September 2025, minimum financial requirements for study permit applications increased significantly.
Single applicants must now demonstrate at least CAD $22,895 in available funds in addition to tuition and travel costs. This threshold increases with each family member included in the application.
PGWP Field of Study Requirements
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility now depends heavily on field of study for non-exempt programmes.
Students in eligible fields linked to occupations in long-term shortage can access PGWPs, while those in other fields may face restrictions.
Bachelor's, Master's and doctoral programmes remain exempt from these field-of-study requirements.