Maple News reports that Canada’s latest Immigration Levels Plan for 2026–2028 introduces significant changes that directly impact international students. The federal government has announced a dramatic reduction in student intake targets, cutting planned admissions by nearly half compared to previous commitments.
Under the new plan, Canada will admit only 155,000 international students in 2026—a sharp decline from the previously projected 305,900. The figure will decrease slightly to 150,000 for both 2027 and 2028. These numbers mark a significant strategic shift, reflecting the government’s broader efforts to manage temporary resident inflows more carefully, particularly in response to infrastructure pressures and affordability concerns in major cities.
Although these reductions may present challenges for prospective students applying from abroad, those already studying in Canada may benefit from the decreased competition. With fewer international students on campus over the next few years, graduates may face less saturation in the job market and improved access to coveted pathways for permanent residence.
A primary route toward staying in Canada after graduation is through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which enables international graduates to gain Canadian work experience. This experience is especially valuable for permanent residence eligibility, particularly under programs like the Canadian Experience Class.
As fewer international students are expected to arrive in coming years, the number of PGWP holders will likely decline in the 2028-2030 period, when these cohorts complete their studies. This shift could result in reduced competition for post-study employment and enhance the chances of securing permanent residency for those who are already in the system.
The changes are part of the government’s efforts to strike a balance between immigration goals and capacity constraints, while maintaining Canada’s reputation as a top destination for global talent.
For international students with aspirations to study and eventually settle in Canada, these updates underscore the importance of early planning and exploring various provincial and federal immigration pathways.
Maple News will continue to track developments related to Canada’s immigration plans and their implications for international students.