*skilled trades and social services offer better employment prospects and stronger pathways to permanent residency
By Ola Kay
Canada has embarked on major reviews to its visa system for international students,which directly affects applicants from Africa.
The new move by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to help address the ever increasing number of foreign students and reduce pressure associated accommodation and public services, thereby improve the study permit system.
Previously, Canada has recorded a sharp increase in study permit applications, particularly from African countries including Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya. Following the development, the Canadian authorities have introduced tighter measures, including a cap on study permits and new documentation requirements.
Canada has been a destination of choice for international students based on its standard education system, post-study work opportunities and opportunities for permanent residency.
As a result of the changes, prospective applicants from African countries are now expected to better understand the updated requirements to improve their chances.
In this regard, African students are to note the following:
1. Study Permit Cap
Canada has introduced a national cap on the number of study permits issued annually. A total of 309,670 applications will be considered under the cap in2026.
This means fewer permits will be approved, increasing competition among applicants. Provinces and institutions now operate within allocation limits. As a result, applicants are expected to submit stronger applications with credible financial proof and begin the process early.
2. Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) Requirement
Applicants seeking admission into undergraduate or college programmes must now include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) in their study permit application.
The document is issued by the province or territory in which the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is located and confirms that the applicant is within the approved quota. Applications without a valid PAL or TAL will not be processed by IRCC.
3. PAL/TAL Exceptions for Masters and PhD Students
Students applying for masters and doctoral programmes are exempt from the PAL or TAL requirement.
The exemption is part of Canada’s strategy to attract highly skilled professionals and researchers. This also makes postgraduate study more attractive, as applicants benefit from a simpler process, access to research opportunities, post-study work options, and clearer pathways to permanent residency.
4. Higher Financial Proof Requirements
The Canadian government has increased the financial requirements for study permit applicants.
Students must now show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, travel, living expenses and other costs without relying on employment in Canada. The updated threshold takes effect from September 2025 and is subject to annual review.
5. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes
Canada has also updated its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) policy to align with labour market needs.
Greater emphasis is now placed on programmes in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, technology, engineering, skilled trades and social services. Graduates in these fields are expected to have better employment prospects and stronger pathways to permanent residency.
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