Just days after reducing the number of low-wage temporary foreign workers, Justin Trudeau has announced further reductions in the number of study permits issued to international students. The country will also tighten work permit eligibility criteria to limit the number of temporary residents.

The Canadian PM took to his X, “We’re granting 35% fewer international student permits this year. And next year, that number’s going down by another 10%.”

“Immigration is an advantage for our economy — but when bad actors abuse the system and take advantage of students, we crack down,” he added.

With public opinion polls declining and the government recovering from a major by-election defeat, immigration and temporary residency have become central topics, especially with a federal election anticipated by October 2025.

Earlier this year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) Canada announced a decrease in the number of temporary residents — from 6.5% of Canada’s total population down to 5% by 2026.

To achieve this goal, the federal government is taking action to manage the increase of temporary residents and hold employers misusing the system accountable.

According to IRCC, the target for study permits in 2024 is 4,85,000, which will be at 4,37,000 in 2025.

The limit for 2026 will remain the same as 2025.

What is international student permit?

A study permit is an official document that allows foreign nationals to pursue education at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.

Most international students must obtain a study permit before studying in the country. It is important to ensure that all necessary documents are prepared before submitting your application. One should apply for a permit before travelling to Canada.

In 2023, the vast majority (97.6%) of Canada’s population growth came from “international migration” (both permanent and temporary immigration) and the remaining portion (2.4%) came from natural increase, according to figures from StanCan.

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Canada’s plan to cut down low-wage workers will hit Indians the hardest