Canada’s immigration authority has introduced significant policy updates regarding study permits, Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP), and Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP) to stabilize temporary resident numbers and align international education with long-term labor market needs.
1. Study Permit Caps
Reduced Quotas: Study permit issuance is reduced to 437,000 for 2025 (a 10% reduction from 2024), maintaining stability in 2026.
Graduate Inclusion & PAL: The cap now includes Master’s and Ph.D. students, who must secure a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). However, a specific 12% allocation is reserved for these graduate students to ensure continued intake.
2. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes (Effective Nov 1st)
Language Requirements: Applicants must meet new language proficiency standards: CLB 7 for university graduates and CLB 5 for college graduates.
Field of Study Requirement: To qualify for a 3-year PGWP, public college graduates must complete programs aligned with critical labor shortages, focusing on sectors like STEM, Health, and Skilled Trades.
3. Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) Restrictions
Duration Rule: Spouses can only apply for a work permit if the student is enrolled in a Master's program lasting 16 months or longer.
Targeted Occupations: SOWP eligibility is further restricted to spouses of students in specific high-demand or professional fields.
