Starting January 1, 2026, Master’s and Doctoral degree students applying to study at public institutions in Canada will no longer be subject to Canada’s study permit cap. This change will streamline the application process for graduate students, eliminating the need for a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL / TAL). As a result, obtaining study permits will become more accessible and cost-effective for international students pursuing advanced degrees in Canada.

Impact on Master’s and Doctoral Students

The exemption from the study permit cap means that graduate students can apply without worrying about processing limits imposed by IRCC. This opens up opportunities for more students to pursue their studies in Canada without the financial burden of upfront costs associated with PAL/TAL requirements. The removal of these prerequisites simplifies the application process and reduces the financial barriers for prospective graduate students.

Enhanced Processing for Doctoral Students

Furthermore, doctoral students and their accompanying family members now benefit from expedited processing times, with study permit applications being approved in as little as two weeks. To qualify for accelerated processing, doctoral students must be enrolled in a doctoral program, apply online from outside Canada, and meet specific eligibility criteria. Eligible family members can also enjoy faster processing by submitting their applications alongside the principal applicant.