Canada's International Student Influx Slows as New Visa Restrictions Bite

Canada's international student landscape is undergoing a seismic shift as new visa restrictions take effect. ApplyBoard projects a 26% drop in study permit approvals for 2025, with only 207,000 new international students expected. This follows a staggering 45% decline in 2024, surpassing the government's intended 35% reduction. The changes, including stricter financial requirements and work permit limitations for spouses, aim to address housing pressures and labor market concerns. However, they pose challenges for institutions reliant on international fees and may reshape Canada's appeal as a premier study destination.
Source: ApplyBoard Insights