Canada has announced a major policy shift aimed at attracting the world’s top researchers and high-skilled graduates by removing the federal study permit cap for international master’s and doctoral students at public universities starting January 2026. The decision, outlined in the new Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028, creates a clear distinction between graduate-level applicants and those in undergraduate or college programs, which remain subject to broader restrictions.
Reinforcing this strategic priority, the government has introduced a 14-day fast-track visa processing service exclusively for incoming PhD students and their families, ensuring rapid entry into Canadian research institutions. To further streamline the process, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched a dedicated online portal offering centralized information on graduate programs, scholarship options, and post-graduation work pathways.
A senior government official said graduate students are vital to Canada’s research and innovation landscape and are more likely to become long-term contributors to the national economy. The preferential treatment reflects Canada’s dual focus on managing growth in the temporary resident population while intensifying efforts to compete globally for top-tier academic talent.
Related: Canada Faces Steepest Drop in Student Permits in a Decade
The initiative aligns with Canada’s broader goal of reducing its temporary resident population to below 5 percent by 2027, easing pressure on housing and public services. Despite tightening most international student routes, the country’s updated policy underscores its commitment to remaining a premier destination for advanced education, cutting-edge research, and scientific progress.