Canada Immigration Brief — September 18, 2025
- Nina A
- Oct 8
- 2 min read
Canada Immigration Brief: Latest Developments, Key Numbers & Trends, What This Means for Clients
Latest Developments
1. Student & Work Permit Approval Rates Drop SharplyNew data reveal Canada’s student visa approval rate has fallen to approximately 43%, while work permit approvals are down to about 69%. The Times of India. These figures mark a significant tightening in IRCC’s approach to temporary resident permits.
2. Increased Financial Proof for Atlantic Immigration & Other Economic Pathways. As of July 29, 2025, IRCC raised the minimum settlement funds requirement for the Atlantic Immigration Program and several economic streams. The updated baseline is 12.5% of the Low Income Cut‑Off (LICO). The Economic Times. This makes it more stringent for applicants to prove financial readiness.
3. New Language Test Accepted for Permanent Residency Applicants. IRCC has expanded the list of accepted English proficiency tests: it will now recognize TOEFL Essentials for permanent residence applications. The Economic Times. This adds flexibility for applicants who may find other tests costlier or more complex to schedule.
Key Numbers & Trends
Metric | Current Value / Change | Implication |
Student visa approval rate | ~43% The Times of India | A greater risk of refusal; applicants need strong documentation. |
Work permit approval rate | ~69% The Times of India | Standards for temporary work entry are rising. |
Minimum settlement funds (Atlantic & economic programs) | 12.5% of LICO The Economic Times | Applicants must prove more financial resources. |
New language test | TOEFL Essentials accepted for PR The Economic Times | More options; check eligibility for specific streams. |
What This Means for Clients
Prepare stronger financial documentation: With increased settlement fund requirements, applicants under Atlantic and similar economic programs must ensure their funds clearly meet the revised threshold.
Expect stricter scrutiny on study permit files: Given the drop in approval rates for student visas, any missing or weak supporting documents (financial proof, academic credentials, language ability) are more likely to lead to refusal.
Benefit from added flexibility on language testing: TOEFL Essentials is now recognized for many permanent residence applications. If accessible and acceptable in your stream, it may offer a faster or more affordable route.
Use caution and strategy when choosing a permit or immigration pathway: As rules tighten, aligning your profile (including financial resources, documentation, and test scores) with current requirements is more essential than ever.
Canada Immigration Brief
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