Canada’s Student Visa Approvals Drop Over 70%
As of 2025, Canada is experiencing a notable dip in the number of new international students and foreign workers arriving in the country. Between January and June of 2025, there was a staggering reduction of 214,520 arrivals compared to the same period in 2024. This drop represents almost a 57% decline in total arrivals, including both students and workers.
In terms of numbers, Canada issued 245,137 work permits and 125,034 study permits in the first half of 2024. Fast forward to 2025, and those figures plummeted to 119,234 work permits and just 36,417 study permits. It’s a concerning 70% reduction in international student arrivals and a 50% fall in work permits for foreign workers.
Understanding Study Permits in Canada
If you’re considering studying in Canada, you’ll want to be aware of recent changes. Between January and June 2025, there were 88,617 fewer new students arriving compared to the same timeframe in 2024. During this period, the number of study permits issued saw a dramatic decrease—from a peak of 45,806 in April 2024 down to 8,543 in April 2025. March recorded the lowest figure, with only 3,819 permits granted, while May and June followed with 4,553 and 4,185, respectively.
Canada’s Immigration Strategy
In an effort to manage the influx of international students, Canada implemented an annual cap on study permits starting in 2024. This cap is expected to lead to a further 10% reduction in 2025, aiming to lower pressures in high-demand rental markets typically populated by students. For 2025, the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) has planned to issue about 437,000 study permits, reflecting this decrease.
Alongside the cap, the application process for study permits has tightened significantly. Each application now necessitates an attestation letter from a provincial or territorial authority. Also, beginning September 1, 2024, international students enrolled in programs linked to curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer qualify for a post-graduation work permit upon completion.
Moreover, changes were made regarding the eligibility of spouses for open work permits. Previously an option for all international students, now only the spouses of students in master’s and doctoral programs can apply, limiting opportunities for those in undergraduate and college courses.
If you’re considering a move to Canada, it’s essential to stay updated on these changes in immigration policy. They not only impact those looking to study but also affect the broader landscape of employment opportunities through visa sponsorship. Our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, is dedicated to providing listings for jobs that specifically offer visa support to international applicants. So if you’re exploring job opportunities from overseas, you’ll find that every listing on VisaJobsCanada.com includes visa sponsorship details to help you on your journey.
In conclusion, while the landscape for studying and working in Canada is undergoing significant changes, there are still pathways available for international students and workers. Stay informed and utilize resources like VisaJobsCanada.com to navigate your opportunities effectively.
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