Canada to Issue 408,000 Study Permits in 2026: Graduate Students Get New Exemptions

Canada has announced that it will reduce the number of international study permits in 2026. This move is part of a larger plan to lower the share of temporary residents in the country to under 5% by the end of 2027, according to government officials. The decision reflects Canada’s effort to manage growth in the international student population while balancing national priorities such as housing, education, and community resources.

Study Permit Targets for 2026

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has set specific targets for 2026. They plan to issue a total of 408,000 study permits, which include:

• 155,000 new permits for students coming to Canada for the first time.
• 253,000 extensions for students already in Canada who are continuing their studies.

These numbers represent a 7% decrease from 2025 and are 16% lower than the target set for 2024. The reduction shows Canada’s careful approach to managing international student growth while making sure the International Student Program aligns with the country’s long-term goals.

PAL/TAL Exemption for Graduate Students

Starting January 1, 2026, graduate students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees at public, designated learning institutions (DLIs) will no longer need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) to apply for a study permit.

This exemption is designed to support graduate research and innovation, which are seen as important for Canada’s long-term development. Eligible students for this exemption include:

• Master’s and doctoral students at public DLIs
• Primary and secondary school students
• Students in government-priority programs and vulnerable groups
• Current permit holders who are renewing at the same institution and study level

It is estimated that around 49,000 graduate students will benefit from this exemption, making it easier for them to continue their research and studies in Canada without additional administrative hurdles.

PAL/TAL-Required Permits by Province

Even with the exemption for graduate students, some permits will still require a PAL/TAL. Out of 180,000 permits requiring this attestation, Ontario and Quebec receive the largest allocations because they have the most students and institutions. Other provinces and territories receive smaller allocations based on their population and historical approval rates.

Here is a breakdown of the 2026 PAL/TAL-required permits by province:

In total, Canada will accept a maximum of 309,670 applications from students needing PAL/TAL in 2026.

What This Means for Students

The reduction in study permits is part of Canada’s plan to ease pressure on housing, schools, and local resources, but it also means that competition for study permits will be higher. Students who are planning to study in Canada in 2026 should:

• Apply early to increase their chances of receiving a permit
• Check that their chosen institution is eligible under the DLI list
• Stay updated on changes like the PAL/TAL exemptions for graduate students

By planning ahead and staying informed, students can navigate the new rules and maximize their chances of studying in Canada successfully.

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