The Canadian government has decided to implement new measures to simplify study procedures for international students, granting key exemptions and faster visa processing for postgraduate applicants beginning January 2026.

Under the new policy, students enrolling in master’s and doctoral programs at public universities will be exempt from the federal study permit cap, a limit that applies to other study categories. These students will no longer need an attestation letter from provincial or territorial authorities — a step that was previously mandatory.

The government also confirmed that PhD applicants and their family members applying together will receive faster visa decisions, with applications expected to be processed within about two weeks.

Officials said the move is aimed at attracting more skilled researchers and strengthening Canada’s higher education system, offering a more stable and predictable route for students, including those from Pakistan, to pursue advanced studies at leading universities.

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Expected Visa Processing Timeline:

Before Applying, Students Should:

• Secure an admission offer from a public university in Canada
• Prepare academic and financial documents in advance
• Apply for a study permit early
• Monitor official immigration updates
• Ensure accuracy in application details to avoid delays