Savanna Hoffman
Canada has been one of the top three countries in the world in terms of attracting foreign students, with nearly 26 of the world's top 1000 universities located within its borders. The country has risen in popularity due to its excellent study programs, modern infrastructure, and globally acclaimed academic institutions. During the pandemic, Canada continued to allow international students to enter the country, provided they had a valid study permit or a letter of introduction and were enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan. As of October 20, 2020, international students with valid student visas and confirmed offers from Canadian institutes were allowed to enter Canada, provided their institute had an approved COVID-19 plan. In addition, the IRCC introduced a temporary immigration program in January 2021, enabling recent international graduates to apply for an extra open work permit to gain Canadian work experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International students allowed in Canada | Yes, but with a cap on the number of permits |
| Number of permits for 2025 | 437,000 |
| Number of permits for 2024 | 650,000 |
| Reduction in permits from 2024 to 2025 | 10% |
| Requirements for entry | Valid health and immigration documents, eTA or TRV |
| Extension of study permit | Must be applied for before the previous permit expires |
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What You'll Learn
International student entry restrictions
International students who want to enter Canada may need a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), depending on their country of origin. Students from visa-required countries must obtain a TRV before their departure, as they cannot obtain one upon arrival in Canada. An eTA is issued automatically when applying for a study permit, and it is renewed with the study permit. However, if an eTA was not issued with the study permit, students must complete an online application form and pay a processing fee.
International students applying for a Canadian work permit do not need to have the length of their post-graduation work permit (PGWP) deducted even if they are studying online outside the country. This relaxation was valid until April 30, 2021, extended from its previous deadline of December 31, 2020. Additionally, a two-step Canadian study permit approval process was introduced, allowing international students to start the semester online without a finalized study permit.
In 2025, Canada will cap the number of international students allowed to enter the country for the second consecutive year. The immigration ministry will issue 437,000 study permits, a 10% reduction from 2024. This cap was introduced due to population growth, which has aggravated the housing shortage in the country.
International students must review the travel advisories and policies of their respective universities, such as McGill's Policy on Student Safety Abroad, to ensure they comply with the necessary safety protocols and procedures. They should also refer to the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories for up-to-date information on safety, security, and health notices, as well as entry requirements.
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Study permits
International students who wish to enter Canada are required to obtain a study permit. The process for obtaining a study permit involves several steps and requirements that must be carefully followed. Firstly, it is important to note that the requirements for a study permit may vary depending on the student's country of origin. Some countries are visa-exempt, while others require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in addition to the study permit. It is recommended that prospective students consult official sources, such as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), to determine the specific entry requirements for their country of origin.
When applying for a study permit, international students should ensure that they submit a complete application package, which typically includes various documents and may involve a fee. The application process can be completed online, and it is important to allow sufficient time for processing. In some cases, priority processing may be available for students who submit their applications online. Once the application is approved, the study permit will be mailed to the Canadian address provided by the applicant.
It is worth noting that Canada introduced an international student cap in 2024, limiting the number of new study permits issued. This cap was in response to concerns about the impact of population growth on housing and other services. As of 2025, the country plans to issue 437,000 study permits, a 10% reduction from the previous year. International students should be aware of such caps and plan their applications accordingly.
In addition to the study permit, international students should also be prepared to demonstrate their financial resources and ties to their home country when entering Canada. They may also need to undergo a valid immigration medical exam, which must be completed before their arrival in Canada and remain valid throughout their stay. Students are advised to keep their TRVs and eTAs valid at all times and ensure that they have the proper health and immigration documents before travelling.
For students who plan to work during their studies or after graduation, it is important to understand the regulations surrounding work permits. Canada has introduced rules to support international students, such as not deducting the length of their post-graduation work permit (PGWP) even if they study online outside the country. However, students should refer to the most up-to-date information provided by official sources, as policies may change over time.
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Travel requirements
As of 2025, Canada has reduced the number of international student permits for the second year in a row, issuing 437,000 study permits, a 10% reduction from 2024. International students must adhere to the travel requirements when entering Canada.
Firstly, students should consult the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories for up-to-date information on safety, security, health notices, and entry requirements. Students are also advised to take cybersecurity seriously when preparing to leave Canada, as their electronic devices may be subject to search by border officials in other countries.
Secondly, students must possess the proper health and immigration documents before boarding their flight to Canada. Most travellers require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). The requirement depends on the traveller's country of origin. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents of the U.S. are exempt from both requirements. Students from visa-required countries must obtain a TRV before departure, as they cannot obtain one upon arrival in Canada. If a student's study permit application is approved, an eTA or TRV will be issued automatically.
Additionally, students must ensure that their study permits are valid and up-to-date. If a student's permit expires while they are outside of Canada, they may be denied entry or not authorized to study or work until a new permit is issued. Students who applied for an extension before their permit expired may be allowed entry if they meet other requirements, such as having sufficient funds for their stay and convincing an immigration officer of their intention to return to their home country.
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Visa applications
As of 2025, Canada has capped the number of international students allowed to enter the country for the second year in a row. The country will issue 437,000 study permits, a 10% reduction from 2024.
To enter Canada, international students may need a visa, depending on their country of origin. Students from visa-required countries must obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before their departure, as they cannot obtain one upon arrival in Canada. The TRV will be issued at the same time as the study permit approval. Students can check if they need a visa by referring to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and its Entry Requirements page. This page outlines the steps to apply for the relevant document. It is recommended that international students keep their visas valid at all times.
Students who applied for a study permit will automatically be issued an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which will be listed on their Letter of Introduction. If an eTA was not issued with the study permit, students must complete an online application form and pay a processing fee. The eTA is typically approved within minutes of submission. An eTA will be automatically renewed with a study permit extension application.
International students must also ensure they have the proper health and immigration documents before boarding their flight to Canada. Airline officials are responsible for ensuring that all passengers meet these requirements. Students should also be mindful of the sensitive or confidential information on their electronic devices, as these may be subject to search by border officials.
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Student safety abroad
Canada has been making efforts to support international students by introducing new rules and policies. However, it is essential for international students to be aware of the requirements and procedures necessary for entering or re-entering the country. Here are some key considerations for student safety when studying abroad in Canada:
Understanding Entry Requirements:
Before travelling to Canada, international students must ensure they have the proper health and immigration documents, such as a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). The specific requirements may vary depending on the student's country of origin. It is recommended to refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for up-to-date information on entry requirements, including any exemptions or special circumstances.
Travel Advisories and Safety:
Students travelling to Canada should consult the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories for the latest information on safety, security, and health notices specific to their destination. Additionally, universities like McGill University have their own travel policies and safety guidelines, which students must review before travelling abroad. These policies outline important responsibilities and procedures to ensure student safety during university-related travel.
Study Permit and Extensions:
International students planning to study in Canada must obtain a study permit. It is important to note that starting November 8, 2024, students will no longer be able to change schools on the same study permit. If students intend to change schools, they will need to apply for a new study permit or an extension of their current one. Additionally, if a student's study permit expires while they are outside Canada, they may be denied entry or not authorized to study or work until a new permit is issued.
Work Permit Considerations:
International students intending to work in Canada should be aware of the rules regarding work permits. For instance, studying online outside of Canada may impact the length of a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). It is recommended to stay informed about any changes or updates to work permit regulations.
Cybersecurity:
When travelling to and from Canada, students should be mindful of cybersecurity risks. Confidential information stored on electronic devices may be subject to search by border officials in other countries. Students are advised to consult the Government of Canada's Research Security webpages for guidance on protecting their information while abroad.
International students should stay informed about the latest policies, requirements, and advisories related to studying and travelling in Canada. By being proactive and knowledgeable about these safety considerations, students can ensure a smoother transition into their study abroad experience in Canada.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Canada is allowing international students to enter. However, there are specific requirements that must be met. For instance, students must have the proper health and immigration documents before boarding their flight. This includes either a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), depending on the country of origin.
International students must review their university's travel policies and safety guidelines before travelling abroad. Additionally, they should consult the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories for up-to-date information on entry requirements, safety, and health notices. It is important to note that if an international student's study permit has expired or will expire during their time abroad, they may be denied entry to Canada.
Canada has capped the number of international students entering the country in 2025 at 437,000 study permits, a 10% reduction from 2024. This cap is intended to ease pressure on housing, healthcare, and other services.
