Updated: July 22, 2026 — 2026 study permit rules & PGWP program list.
Study in Canada

Canada Study Visa — Your Guide to Studying in Canada (2026)

Canada remains one of the top destinations for international students, but 2026 brought some of the most significant study permit changes in years — a lower national cap, new attestation letter rules, and stricter compliance enforcement. Manzil Immigration helps you navigate every requirement, from choosing the right Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to preparing a compliant, complete application.

408K
Study permits cap for 2026
24
Max off-campus work hours/week
$22K+
Proof of funds (plus tuition)
PAL
Exemption for Master's/PhD
2026 Rules

2026 Study Permit Rules — What You Need to Know

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National Cap & PAL/TAL

  • Canada is issuing up to approximately 408,000 study permits in 2026 (new permits and extensions).
  • Most college/undergraduate applicants need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL).
  • Master's & PhD applicants at public DLIs are exempt from PAL/TAL as of January 1, 2026.
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Financial & Work Rules

  • Single applicants outside Quebec must show funds well above $22,000 CAD (on top of tuition & travel).
  • Off-campus work: up to 24 hours/week during academic terms.
  • A June 2026 IRCC update sharpened compliance enforcement, including closer attention to the 150-day absence rule.
After Graduation

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

IRCC has frozen the list of PGWP-eligible programs for 2026, meaning no programs are being added or removed this year — giving current students more predictability.

Bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs remain broadly eligible. Some diploma/certificate programs must be linked to occupations facing labour shortages, depending on when the study permit was applied for. We help you confirm PGWP eligibility before you commit to a program.

Our Services

How We Help

From eligibility to landing, we provide end-to-end guidance for your Canada study permit journey.

1

Eligibility & PAL/TAL Check

Assess your eligibility for PAL/TAL exemptions before you apply, so you know exactly what's required.

2

DLI & Program Selection

Help you choose a Designated Learning Institution and program aligned with your PR goals, including PGWP eligibility.

3

Application & Documentation

Prepare a strong Statement of Purpose / study plan, and guide you on proof-of-funds documentation to avoid refusals.

4

Compliance & Settlement

Ongoing compliance guidance once you're studying in Canada, so your permit conditions stay protected.

Book a Free Study Visa Consultation
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions — Canada Study Visa

Do I need a PAL or TAL to study in Canada in 2026?
Most undergraduate and college applicants do. Master's and PhD applicants at public institutions are exempt as of January 1, 2026.
How much money do I need to show for a study permit?
Requirements change periodically — we confirm the current threshold with you directly, along with tuition and travel cost documentation.
Can I work while studying in Canada?
Yes, up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic terms, with full-time hours allowed during scheduled breaks.
Will my program qualify me for a PGWP?
It depends on your program and when you apply. We check this before you commit to a school, since it affects your path to Canada PR.

Ready to Study in Canada?

Get a free eligibility assessment and a clear next step — before the next round of invitations goes out.

Check Your Study Visa Eligibility Free
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