In late 2025, the Canadian government further tightened the rules for international students as part of a multi-year plan to stabilize the temporary resident population.
If you are applying for a study permit for the 2026 academic year, here are the critical updates you need to know:
The government has set a hard limit on study permits for 2026, targeting only 155,000 new arrivals.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): Most applicants (especially for college and undergraduate degrees) must obtain a PAL from the province before they can even submit their visa application.
Master’s & PhD Exemption: As of January 1, 2026, Master’s and Doctoral students are exempt from the PAL requirement. They can apply directly with their Letter of Acceptance (LOA).
Fast-Track for PhDs: PhD students now qualify for a two-week fast-track processing stream if they submit a complete online application.
As of September 1, 2025, the “Proof of Funds” requirement increased significantly to reflect inflation. You must show you have this money in addition to your first year of tuition and travel costs.
| Number of People | Required Funds per Year (Outside Quebec) |
| 1 (Student only) | $22,895 CAD |
| 2 (Student + 1 family member) | $28,502 CAD |
| 3 (Student + 2 family members) | $35,040 CAD |
| Each additional person | + $6,170 CAD |
Weekly Limit: The off-campus work limit is now officially 24 hours per week during regular school semesters (increased from the old 20-hour limit).
Full-Time Work: You can still work unlimited hours during scheduled academic breaks (e.g., winter/summer holidays), provided you are a full-time student before and after the break.
If you applied for your study permit on or after November 1, 2024, new rules apply to your future work permit eligibility:
Field of Study Requirement: If you are graduating from a college program (diploma or certificate), your program must be in a “long-term shortage” field (e.g., Healthcare, STEM, Trades, Agriculture, or Transport) to be eligible for a PGWP.
University Grads: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD graduates remain eligible for a PGWP regardless of their field of study.
Language Test: All PGWP applicants must now provide an English or French test score (CLB 7 for university grads, CLB 5 for college grads).
Letter of Acceptance (LOA): From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
PAL: (If not a Master’s/PhD student).
Identity Docs: Valid passport and 2 photos.
Fees: $150 CAD (Study Permit) + $85 CAD (Biometrics).
Proof of Funds: Usually via a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
At HD Immigration Services, we are dedicated to opening doors and paving pathways for individuals and families to fulfill their Canadian dreams.
