When will Canada Open Borders for International Students in 2025

Canada’s manifold and inclusive society, high-standard education, top-notch institutions, and humongous opportunities to work or immigrate after UG or PG have made Canada one of the leading destinations for international students. When you think about why studying in Canada for Indian students became the best choice, you see the ‘mentioned’ reasons. Canada’s government always thinks about international students and keeps their immigration laws smooth. They thought it must be sustainable, and students must be protected from abuse within the system.

Canada boasts of having the top universities in the world. A UG or PG degree is a great career option in Canada. After completing the course, one can have ample job opportunities. 

Canada Student Visa News 2025

All but 5.5 million temporary work permits are set to expire by the end of 2025. The immigration authorities of Canada are expecting most foreign students and work permit holders to leave voluntarily. Of the expiring permits, international students hold almost 7.6 lakh permits. Many students are facing mounting challenges due to recent immigration policy shifts. 

Over the past few years, IRCC i.e. Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada has taken various steps to ensure the sustainability of the foreign student program by rooting out fraudulent activities and protecting international students from financial vulnerability. As announced in 2025–2027 ILP, i.e. Immigration Levels Plan, presently, the temporary resident population in Canada will decrease over the next few years to align with their long­-term economic objectives and improve the quality and integrity of their temporary resident programs. The new rules for international students in Canada 2025 have had a major impact on the international student community. 

Government Initiatives and Policies

Are you dreaming of studying a UG or PG at one of the top universities in Canada? Assuming you are an Indian! Do you have a question about the new rules for international students in Canada 2025? Let’s explore the government policies and initiatives!

According to Canada's new rules for international students in 2025, not all temporary residents will be required to leave. Some may receive renewals or PG work permits. Such permits, typically issued for 9 months to 3 years, allow international students with Canadian diplomas or UG/PG degrees to gain work experience needed for permanent residency applications.

The Latest Updates Indian Students Need to be aware of

Recent updates in Study Abroad Canadian immigration policies have introduced new changes for Indian students. The Canadian government has capped study permit approvals by 35 percent for 2024, limiting permits to 3.6 lakh. The update also showed students enrolling in private institutes after September 2024 may no longer be eligible for PGWPs. In addition, financial requirements/proof of funds have increased to CAD 20,635 to reflect the living expenses. These changes in the topic ‘study in Canada for Indian students’ aim to improve student protection and infrastructure support for Indian students in Canada.

Key Changes in 2025

• Study permit cap
• New documentation requirements 
• Changes to PG work permit
• Financial requirements 
• Spouse work permit

Indian students who wish to gain a Post-study work visa must have a graduate degree from a DLI i.e. Designated Learning Institution and demonstrate their minimum language proficiency in English or French. This comes in the form of minimum language proficiency in CLB level 7 in four parts: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. 

Current Status of Canada's Borders for International Students

Canada's borders are open to international students. The recent changes to immigration policies and study permits for 2024 and 2025 reshaped the landscape. These immigration updates are not about reopening but rather controlling the overburden of the previous issues and managing the housing, healthcare, and educational infrastructure in the best way possible.

For Indian students planning to study in Canada, it is important to apply early due to the new permit cap. They must ensure all documentation, proof of funds, and attestation letters, are complete. Indian students should also check if their DLI qualifies for the postgraduate work permit and be prepared for higher living expenses.

Future Outlook: When Will Canada Fully Open Its Borders?

Canada’s adjustments for the Indian and international students, aim to stabilize its international student program. This is due to concerns about rapid growth, which has strained the accommodation, transportation, and healthcare systems. The Canadian government intends to ensure that genuine international students who have a positive academic experience can receive entry to the country for their future careers. This is good where the educational sector maintains high standards, quality training, and global exposure for students.

In summary

Canada's borders have been open to Indian and international students for years but with stricter controls and new policies aimed at sustainability. The Canadian government has capped study permit approvals by 35 percent for 2024, limiting permits to 3.6 lakh. The update also showed students enrolling in private institutes after September 2024 may no longer be eligible for PGWPs. These measures will likely reshape the experience for new students who are genuine international students, and have a positive academic experience.  Canada's new rules for international students in 2025 help genuine foreign students receive entry to the country for their future careers entering in 2024 and beyond.

If you are looking for great universities, top-class faculty, excellent modes of delivery, and far-out program components, studying in Canada for Indian students is always the best choice! For more information about Canada’s immigration policies, or new rules for international students, contact Education Vibes today!