Canada Slashes Study Permits for Indian Students by 31% Amid Immigration Tightening

Revised immigration targets, higher financial thresholds, and stricter verification protocols reshape Canada’s student visa landscape, with Indian students among the most affected.

Toronto | May 23, 2025
Indian students aspiring to study in Canada are facing growing hurdles, as the Canadian government significantly reduced the number of study permits granted in the first quarter of 2025. According to data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), only 30,640 study permits were issued to Indian nationals in Q1—marking a 31% drop from 44,295 permits granted during the same period last year.

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The sharp decline reflects broader immigration control measures announced by Canadian authorities in response to pressures on housing, health, and infrastructure. Canada’s total study permit target has now been capped at 437,000 for 2025, down from 485,000 in 2024, with similar limits set for 2026.

“Temporary residents, including international students and workers, will be limited to 5% of Canada’s population by 2028,” Prime Minister Mark Carney stated in a policy briefing.

Impact on Indian Students:

In 2023, Indian students made up the largest international demographic in Canada, with 278,045 study permits issued. But by 2024, this number fell to 188,465, and the downward trend continues into 2025.

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What’s Changing for Applicants:

1. Higher Proof of Funds:
   From January 1, 2024, applicants must show access to CA$ 20,635 (approx. ₹12.7 lakh)—double the previous threshold.
2. Stricter Verification:
   Starting December 2023, Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) must validate all acceptance letters through IRCC, aimed at curbing fraudulent admissions.
3. Permit Cap:
   Canada’s federal limit on new permits for 2025 is 437,000, reinforcing its pledge to reduce overall temporary migration levels.
4. Application Costs:
   Study permit application: CA$150
   Biometric fee (if applicable): CA$85

Why the Crackdown?

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Authorities cite excessive pressure from record migration on housing affordability, healthcare services, and public transport systems. The revised policies are part of a broader effort to stabilize Canada’s immigration framework.

What Students Should Do:

Prospective applicants are advised to:

• Prepare early financial documentation that meets the new minimum fund requirements.
• Verify their acceptance letters through DLIs.
• Monitor cap updates and policy changes via IRCC channels.

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Tags:

Canada immigration, study permits, Indian students, IRCC, Mark Carney, international education, student visa, proof of funds, immigration policy, Canada 2025