Canada revamps study permit and post-graduation work permit programs for 2025-2026

Canada has announced significant changes to its Study Permit and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) programs for 2025-2026. The new intake cap will allocate 12% of spaces for master’s and doctoral students, who must now provide provincial attestation letters. Public college graduates in high-demand fields can still obtain three-year PGWPs. Additionally, all PGWP applicants must demonstrate minimum language proficiency: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 for university graduates and CLB 5 for college graduates, effective November 1, 2024. These reforms aim to enhance graduates’ transition to permanent residency and adaptability to economic shifts.