Canada’s immigration department has moved to limit the 2026 intake of study permits by roughly seven percent and to cap student working hours at 20 per week, a policy change that will directly affect international applicants planning to begin studies in Canada next year. The announcement comes amid broader shifts in Canadian policy after steep declines in arrivals and new enforcement and data-analysis efforts by Statistics Canada and IRCC.
For students in Jordan and the Middle East, the practical effects are immediate. Fewer available study permits means tougher competition for offers that lead to successful visa issuance — especially for popular intakes in September 2026. The 20-hour weekly cap will reduce how much part-time income students can expect to earn while enrolled, potentially increasing reliance on savings, family support, scholarships, or university-funded positions.
Applicants should adjust their timelines and documentation now. Recommended steps: (1) Apply earlier than usual — begin university applications and secure letters of acceptance as soon as possible; (2) Submit complete visa applications including biometrics, police certificates, proof of funds, and tuition receipts to avoid delays; (3) If you rely on part-time income, recalculate budgets assuming at most 20 hours/week during term time and consider on-campus jobs or graduate assistantships where available; (4) Confirm whether your program qualifies for co-op or the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) before accepting an offer.
Despite the cap, some operational data show IRCC processing times for temporary residence applications have fallen recently. Faster processing could mitigate part of the intake cut if you file a complete application early. At the same time, Statistics Canada’s new feasibility study on estimating the international student population signals that Ottawa will continue monitoring administrative data to guide policy — meaning more adjustments could follow based on arrival trends.
What students should do now: prioritize early applications for Fall 2026 and alternate intakes, apply to a mix of institutions (including smaller universities and colleges that may have more available places), secure funding documents, and explore backup destinations or deferred entry options. Deadlines: aim to have admissions applications submitted 8–12 months before your intended start date and your study-permit application filed as soon as you receive your Letter of Acceptance. If you plan to work while studying, update your budget and check employer and on-campus hiring cycles.
Shatnawi for College Admissions and Academic Consultations can help Jordanian students adjust applications, verify program eligibility for PGWP and co-op, and prepare complete visa files to improve chances under the tighter 2026 intake. For personalized guidance, contact Shatnawi via WhatsApp at +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com.