Overview

• Canada issued 30,640 study permits to Indian students in Q1 2025, a 31% decrease from the same period in 2024, as per IRCC data.
• Tighter immigration policies include raising proof of funds for study permits to CAD 20,635 and capping total permits at 437,000 for 2025.
• The Canadian government aims to limit temporary residents, including international students, to 5% of the population by 2027 to ease housing and infrastructure pressures.
• Indian students are increasingly exploring alternative destinations such as Ireland, the UK, and the US, citing affordability and clearer immigration pathways.
• Experts predict a potential recovery in late 2025 as institutions and students adapt to Canada's new immigration framework.