Major Canada Study Permit Rule Changes Unveiled for 2026

The government of Canada has finally revealed its provincial and territorial allocations for the International Student Program for 2026. The announcement shows a major recalibration, focusing on sustainability, quality assurance, and aligning the program more closely with Canada’s economic and public infrastructure capacity.

This strategy aims to reduce the temporary resident population to below 5% of the total population by the end of 2027.

Overview of New Canada Study Permit Rules for 2026

Also Read: Prince Edward Island Conducts Largest PNP Draw of the Year

The National Cap and the Goal for Reduction

For the year 2026, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has set a national target of issuing a maximum of 408,000 study permits. This also represents a further reduction of 7% from the 2025 target and signals a continued effort to tighten the issuance of permits.

The primary reasons for this ongoing reduction are:

• To manage the significant pressures on Canada’s housing market, healthcare system, and local infrastructure.
• To ensure the immigration system is balanced while actively safeguarding pathways for genuine, high-skilled international talent.

New Exemptions from the Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL)

Effective January 1, 2026, master's and doctoral students enrolling at public Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) will not be required to obtain a PAL or TAL when applying for their study permit.

This exception is made to encourage global competition for research-driven talent and reinforces Canada's capacity for innovation in key economic sectors such as technology, health sciences, and advanced research.

The following groups will also remain exempt from the PAL/TAL requirement:

• Primary and secondary school students (Kindergarten to Grade 12).
• Government priority groups and vulnerable cohorts.
• Existing study permit holders extending their permit at the same academic level and institution.

Also Read: Canada’s 2026-28 Immigration Levels Plan Raises PNP Targets by Over 66%

List of Province-Wise Distribution Of 2026 Study Permit Targets

The federal government has distributed the targets to provinces and territories based on their population and historical trends.

Here is the list of province-wise distribution of 2026 study permit targets:

Note: Out of all the nationals, study permits will be issued to applicants who require a PAL or TAL.

These allocations mean that undergraduate and college-focused applicants, particularly those targeting institutions that fall under the cap, will face increased competition due to the limited number of PAL/TAL spaces available in each province.

Secure Your Spot Under Canada’s 2026 Study Permit Cap with GetGIS

Canada’s new 2026 study permit rules make it more competitive than ever for undergraduate and college applicants, while opening clearer pathways for eligible master’s and PhD candidates at public institutions. If you want to secure your spot under the new cap and make sense of PAL/TAL requirements and exemptions, GetGIS can guide you with end‑to‑end support on course selection, documentation, and visa strategy.

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Canada Immigration Updates

• Alberta Holds 2nd Largest PNP Draw of 2025, Inviting 1,125 Candidates
• Updated IRCC Processing Times Out for November 2025
• Canada Unveils New Automated System to Speed Up Study Permit Extensions
• IRCC Prioritizes In-Canada Candidates for PR Under New Immigration Levels Plan 2026-2028