In Canada, the number of research permits granted to Indian students has dropped significantly, falling by 31% in the first quarter of 2025. A total of 30,640 permits were issued, a stark contrast to 44,295 permits in the same period last year.
This decline is part of a larger strategy aimed at managing the influx of international students, which the Canadian government began addressing in late 2023. Last year, 681,155 research permits were issued, with Indian students accounting for a substantial 278,045 of those. However, in 2024, total permits decreased to 516,275, with the number issued to Indian students dropping to 188,465.
The Canadian government is reacting to the unprecedented immigration levels that have raised concerns about housing affordability and the strain on healthcare and transport systems. According to Prime Minister Mark Carney, there’s a goal to limit temporary residents, including students and foreign workers, to 5% of the population by 2028. As part of this initiative, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has established a target of 437,000 research permits for 2025, down from 485,000 in the previous year, a figure that may also apply in 2026.
Furthermore, new application requirements for research permits are in effect. Since January 1, 2024, applicants need to demonstrate financial stability, specifically showing about CAD 20,635 (approximately INR 127,000). Also, designated learning institutions (DLIs) are now responsible for verifying acceptance letters through the IRCC to ensure the validity of student applications.
Major changes to study permit requirements:
- Increased proof of funds: CAD 20,635 (approx. INR 127,000) required for applications post-January 1, 2024
- Verification of acceptance letters: DLIs must verify letters through the IRCC starting December 2023
- Maximum limit for research permits: 437,000 permits in 2025, reduced from 485,000
- Temporary Resident Cap: 5% or fewer of Canada’s population by 2028
Prospective students will need to clearly understand these changes and meet the updated requirements as they navigate the application process, which carries a fee of approximately CAD 150, plus around CAD 85 for biometric collection.
