Canada’s International Student Arrivals Drop Sharply Over Two Years
Immigration
Canada’s International Student Arrivals Drop Sharply Over Two Years
April 25, 2026By Immigration Desk
By Immigration Desk
Canada has recorded a significant decline in international student arrivals, according to the latest data released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The updated figures, reflecting data up to February 28, 2026, show that only 2,135 new international students arrived in February 2026. This represents a 48% decrease compared to February 2025 and a dramatic 75% decline compared to February 2024.
According to IRCC, this reduction is part of the federal government’s broader immigration strategy aimed at easing pressure on housing, infrastructure, and social services. The government has stated that lowering immigration levels in the short term is intended to support long-term economic and social stability.
The decline in student arrivals aligns with Canada’s immigration levels plan, which seeks to “restore balance, integrity, and sustainability” in the system. One of the key objectives is to reduce the temporary resident population to below 5% of the total population by 2027.
As part of this strategy, the government has introduced stricter limits on international student intake. In November, Ottawa announced plans to significantly cut the number of study permits issued. Earlier projections indicated that 305,900 permits would be issued annually in 2026 and 2027. However, revised targets now aim to reduce this number to 155,000 in 2026 and 150,000 in 2027, with a further cap of 150,000 permits planned for 2028.
Additional measures contributing to the decline include stricter oversight of acceptance letters to combat study permit fraud, as well as increased financial requirements for applicants.
More recently, IRCC has also indicated that further changes may be introduced, including potential adjustments to work permit eligibility for international students.
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