What changed
On 25 November 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a national study permit cap of 408,000 for 2026. This includes roughly 155,000 permits for new international students and 253,000 for students already in Canada extending their permits. It is a 7% reduction from the 2025 issuance target of 437,000 and about 16% below the 2024 target of 485,000.
The cap continues Canada's multi-year strategy of managing international student volumes. IRCC also confirmed 2026 allocations to provinces and territories, which then distribute quotas to their designated learning institutions (DLIs).
What it means for students
Fewer permits nationally means stronger competition for undergraduate and college seats, which remain subject to the Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) requirement. Indian applicants should apply early in the cycle, secure a PAL/TAL from their institution before submitting, and treat popular provinces as more competitive than in prior years.