• By SLHub Reporter
• In IMMIGRATION
• Posted 29 Aug 2025

📉 Fewer International Students Coming to Canada – What’s Happening?

Over the past few years, Canada has been one of the top choices for international students, including many from Sri Lanka. But according to new data from IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada), the number of students coming here is now going down.

📊 The Numbers

• In 2024, Canada had over 1 million international students.
• But in 2025, the numbers dropped sharply.
• From January to June 2025, Canada saw 70% fewer new students arriving compared to the same time in 2024.
• Study permit approvals also fell from 47% to 33% this year.

🛑 Why Is This Happening?

1. Study Permit Caps – The Canadian government has put a limit on how many new permits can be approved each year.
2. Stricter Requirements – Students now need to show more money in their bank accounts and get special approval letters from provinces.
3. Visa Approvals Going Down – Fewer applications are getting accepted, especially from countries like India and Sri Lanka.

💰 The Impact

• Colleges & Universities – Many schools will have fewer students, which means less money coming in.
• Local Businesses – International students spend on rent, food, transport, and shopping. With fewer students, local businesses may feel the slowdown.
• Housing Market – Fewer students might reduce pressure on rental housing, which could be good news for people struggling to find a place.

🌍 What It Means for Sri Lankans

For Sri Lankan families planning to send children to study in Canada:

• It may be harder to get permits approved.
• Students must show higher financial support.
• The process may take longer and need more documents.

✅ Final Thoughts

Canada is still one of the best countries for higher education, but the rules are now stricter. If you are planning to apply:

• Make sure your paperwork is complete.
• Show strong financial proof.
• Stay updated on IRCC policy changes.

For our Sri Lankan community here in Canada, this change may also affect housing, jobs, and community growth — since fewer students are arriving.

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