Toronto (Rajeev Sharma): Canada has tightened the rules for new international students, increasing the amount of money applicants must demonstrate for living expenses while also placing limits on the number of temporary residents entering the country. The changes are expected to create additional challenges for students from Punjab who are planning to pursue education in Canada.
From September 1, students applying for study permits outside Quebec must now demonstrate access to $23,448 for living expenses, compared with the previous requirement of $22,895. Applicants must also show that they can cover their tuition fees and travel costs.
The changes come as Canada seeks to reduce the overall number of temporary residents. Under the government’s 2026–2028 plan, the country has set a target of 385,000 new temporary residents for 2026, including a maximum of 155,000 new international students.
Ottawa has said the broader objective is to bring temporary residents below five per cent of Canada’s population by the end of 2027.
Express Entry draw offers opportunity to workers
While opportunities for new students have narrowed, some people already working in Canada continue to have immigration options.
On September 1, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada conducted a Canadian Experience Class Express Entry draw, issuing 2,000 invitations to apply for permanent residence. Candidates needed a Comprehensive Ranking System score of at least 521.
Immigration consultants also highlighted the draw on social media, advising candidates near the cut-off to review their Express Entry profiles and scores carefully.
Canada has also announced a one-time programme aimed at transitioning as many as 33,000 temporary workers to permanent residency during 2026 and 2027. The initiative is intended for workers who are already employed in Canada, contribute through taxes and are part of communities experiencing labour shortages.
Greater pressure on prospective students
For Punjabi families considering Canada as a study destination, the latest measures could mean having to arrange more funds before applying and facing fewer places available for new international students.
Those already established in Canada may still have pathways through Express Entry or the special temporary-worker programme, depending on their circumstances and eligibility. However, people with lower immigration scores or permits approaching expiry may face greater uncertainty as the country continues to tighten its temporary-resident intake.
The policy shift signals a more restrictive environment for newcomers, particularly students, even as Canada continues to seek permanent residents from parts of its existing temporary workforce.
