A 2025 guide to navigating the Canada student visa process

Keeping up with the latest changes to Canada’s student visa policies is essential for prospective international students. In 2025, several significant updates will affect how students apply for and maintain their study permits. Here are the most recent and upcoming changes:

• Intake cap on study permit applications: The Government of Canada will implement an intake cap on international student permit applications to stabilise growth over the next two years. For 2025 and –2026, the new target each year is 437,000 study permits, reflecting a 10% reduction from 2024’s target. This revised cap will now include graduate students (master's and PhD levels), who were previously exempt, with 12% of allocation spaces reserved for them. This reduction may be more notable for students enrolling in undergraduate programmes, such as bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, or certificate programmes.

• Regional impact on study permits: The decrease in the number of study permits in Canada is expected to be more significant in larger provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. As a result, students interested in studying in these regions may face increased competition when applying for a study permit compared to those looking to Nova Scotia or Quebec.

• New attestation letter requirement: Effective January 2024, students submitting study permit applications will need to obtain an attestation letter from the province or territory where they plan to study. This letter serves as additional proof of the legitimacy of their application.

• Updated cost-of-living requirements: Effective January 2024, international students will need to demonstrate that they have at least CAN$20,635 to cover their living expenses, an increase from the previous requirement of CAN$10,000. This change reflects the rising cost of living and ensures that students are financially prepared to support themselves in Canada. Note that the requirements for students moving to Quebec are different.

• Changes to post-graduation work permit (PGWP) eligibility: Starting November 2024, new field of study requirements will apply to those graduating from college-level programmes and some university programmes. IRCC has provided a list of 966 eligible programmes, and graduates of these programmes will be able to apply for a PGWP.

• Extended PGWPs for bachelor's, master's, or PhD graduates: Students who complete bachelor's, master's, or PhD programmes in Canada will soon be eligible for three-year PGWPs. These graduates are not affected by the new field of study requirements, allowing them more time to gain valuable work experience in the country post-graduation.

• Changes to spousal open work permit eligibility: Spousal open work permits will be further restricted. Later this year, spouses of master's degree students whose programme is shorter than 16 months in duration will no longer be eligible for an open work permit. This change restricts eligibility and affects spouses of students in other types of programmes.

To stay informed on student visa requirements, you can use the IDP Live App for helpful guides. If you need advice on strategising your visa pathway, start a conversation with an IDP counsellor.

Securing a Canada student visa involves meeting specific eligibility criteria and fulfilling certain responsibilities during your stay. Below is an overview of what you need to know.

Eligibility requirements

To obtain a Canada student visa, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria to ensure their stay is lawful and their study experience is seamless. Here are the key requirements:

• Acceptance at a designated learning institution (DLI): Before applying for a student visa, you must secure admission to a designated learning institution in Canada. A DLI is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.

• Demonstrate financial sufficiency: You need to prove that you have enough financial resources to support your stay in Canada. This includes covering your tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members, and the cost of return transportation.

• No criminal record: To ensure the safety and security of its residents, Canada requires all student visa applicants to have a clean criminal record.

• Good health and medical examination: Depending on your country of residence and personal health history, you may be required to undergo a medical exam conducted by a panel physician approved by the Canadian government.

• Intent to leave Canada upon permit expiry: As part of the visa application process, you must convince an immigration officer that you’ll leave Canada when your study permit expires. This may involve demonstrating ties to your home country, such as family connections, employment opportunities, or property ownership.

Responsibilities while studying in Canada

Once you have secured your Canada student visa and commenced your studies, there are several responsibilities you must uphold to maintain your legal status:

• Make consistent progress towards completing your programme: You are expected to actively pursue your studies and make consistent progress towards completing your chosen programme. This means attending classes regularly, meeting academic requirements, and progressing from one academic term to the next.

• Adhere to the conditions listed on your study permit: Your study permit will come with specific conditions that you must follow. These conditions may include whether you’re allowed to work and/or travel in Canada, and if you require an immigration medical examination.

• Cease studying if requirements are no longer met: If, for any reason, you no longer meet the conditions of your study permit, you’re required to stop studying. Continuing to study under such circumstances could lead to deportation or other legal consequences.

Meeting these requirements and responsibilities is crucial for maintaining your legal status as an international student in Canada and ensuring a smooth and successful study experience.

Before applying for your Canada student visa, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Letter of acceptance from the designated learning institution

• Proof of identity

• Proof of financial support

• Letter of explanation that details your reasons for studying in Canada and understanding your responsibilities as a student

• Medical exam (if applicable)

Applications must be submitted online unless you have a disability preventing online submission or hold an identity or travel document for non-national residents, refugees, or stateless persons.

Once you’ve submitted your student visa application, there are a few key steps to follow:

• Book a biometrics collection appointment if required.

• Processing of study permit application. You may be asked to attend an interview, provide additional information, or undergo a medical exam or police check. This will take considerable time, so be sure to factor it into your application timeline.

• Update the application if your circumstances change during processing.

• If approved, you’ll receive your study permit either at the port of entry upon arrival in Canada or mailed to you if you are already in Canada.

It’s important to note that the entry letter of introduction you’ll receive upon approval is not a study permit. Bring it with you and present it to a border services officer upon arrival in Canada. You may also receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visitor visa if required.

To ensure a seamless transition to life in Canada, it's important to plan ahead and take care of a few essential tasks before you arrive. Here are some key steps to consider:

• Health insurance: Make sure you have adequate health coverage for your stay in Canada. Some provinces offer health insurance to international students, but you may need to purchase private health insurance depending on where you’ll be studying.

• Banking in Canada: Setting up a Canadian bank account is crucial for managing your finances while studying. Research banks that offer student benefits, such as lower fees and better interest rates.

• Accommodation: Securing accommodation before you arrive is essential to avoid last-minute stress. Decide whether you prefer on-campus housing, which offers convenience and a built-in community, or off-campus rentals, which may provide more independence and potentially lower costs.

By preparing these essentials ahead of time, you can focus on enjoying your new academic and cultural experiences in Canada from the moment you arrive.

If you still find navigating the Canada student visa process complex, don’t worry. With the right help, you can stay informed and organised, and complete a successful visa application and a smooth transition to studying in Canada.

An experienced IDP advisor can guide you through every stage of the process, from preparing your application to settling into your new study abroad in Canada. If you’re ready to take the next step, book a free counselling session with IDP today.