In the first quarter of 2025, Canada saw a notable drop in the number of study permits issued to Indian nationals, with a 31% decrease compared to the same time last year. The figures fell from 44,295 to just 30,650, as reported by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Once a top choice for Indian students, Canada is now experiencing a significant decline in its appeal. In the first quarter of 2025, only 30,650 study permits were granted to Indian nationals, marking a sharp 31% drop from the 44,295 permits issued during the same period in 2024, according to IRCC.
Revised Financial Rules Raise Bar
One of the main reasons for this decline is the Canadian government’s updated financial requirements for student visa applicants. Since January 1, 2024, international students must now demonstrate they have CAD 20,635 in available fund.
More than double the previous requirement of CAD 10,000. While this change aims to better reflect the actual cost of living, it has made studying in Canada out of reach for many middle-income families in India.
In addition to financial challenges, recent changes in immigration rules have added to the uncertainty. Canadian border officers now have more authority to cancel valid visas or deny entry if they suspect a student might overstay their visa. Lengthy processing times, increased rejection rates, and unpredictable border checks have made the application process feel riskier.
Canada’s policy shift is a response to growing pressures on housing, transportation, and public services. To address this, Prime Minister Mark Carney has unveiled a plan to limit the number of temporary residents—including foreign students—to 5% of the total population by 2027. This represents a significant recalibration of the country’s immigration strategy.
As Canada becomes pricier and less predictable, Indian students are starting to look at other countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Ireland. These places not only provide quality education but also have affordable tuition and immigration policies that are friendly to students. Things like post-study work rights and clearer paths to residency are becoming increasingly important in their decision-making process.
For Indian students in 2025, Canada isn’t the go-to or easiest option for studying abroad anymore. Although the country is still known for its academic excellence, rising costs and regulatory challenges are prompting a new wave of students to seek out alternative opportunities around the world.
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