In a significant announcement on Monday, the Canadian federal government revealed its decision to reduce the issuance of study permits to international students to around 360,000 for the year 2024. This means Canada is reducing 35% of international students compared to 2023.
The move is supported by individual caps established for each of Canada’s 10 provinces and territories. However, the provincial proportional caps are expected to have a more substantial impact, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area where lots of international students apply for studies.
The temporary cap, which is designed to bring the international student numbers back to 2022 levels, will be in effect for two years. It excludes students enrolled in master’s and Ph.D. programs, and current study permit holders will not be affected according to PIE.
The government also emphasized that this measure aims to address concerns related to the unsustainable growth of the international student population, particularly in provinces where the increase has been most significant.
With this, Ontario is expected to be the hardest-hit province, with student numbers predicted to decline by up to 50%, according to ministers.
Starting from January 22, 2024, the day the cap was announced, study permit applications submitted to IRCC will require an attestation letter from a province or territory.
Source: Pie International
