Canada will further cut the number of international study permits in 2026 as part of its strategy to reduce temporary residents to below 5% by late 2027, officials announced.
Study Permit Allocation for 2026
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has set a target of issuing 408,000 study permits, which includes:
- 155,000 new permits for incoming students
- 253,000 renewals for existing students
This is a 7% drop compared to 2025 and 16% below the 2024 target, showing Canada’s goal to control student numbers and align its education program with national needs.
PAL/TAL Exemptions for Graduate Students
From January 1, 2026, master’s and PhD students at publicly designated learning institutions (DLIs) will no longer need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL). The policy recognizes the importance of research students for innovation and future development. The exemption applies to:
- Master’s and PhD students at public DLIs
- Primary and secondary level students
- Priority and vulnerable groups
- Existing students renewing at the same institution
Around 49,000 graduate students are expected to be covered under this exemption.
Provincial Breakdown
Of the 180,000 permits that still require PAL/TAL, the highest quotas go to Ontario and Quebec, while other provinces receive smaller allocations based on population and approval history.
Impact on Students
These changes are intended to ease pressure on housing and public services, but will also make study permits more competitive. Students aiming for Canada in 2026 should apply early and check program eligibility.
Also Read: Canada Decreases Study Permits for International Students
