Canada has long been a top destination for international students, offering world-class education and pathways to permanent residency. However, recent policy changes are reshaping this narrative. The government has reduced international student permits by 35% in 2024 and plans an additional 10% reduction in 2025, citing housing market pressures. These shifts have created significant challenges for international students, particularly those nearing the expiration of their temporary permits.
Key Policy Changes Impacting International Students
Reduction in Student Permits
The significant cutbacks in international student permits are part of Canada’s broader effort to address its housing crisis. With nearly five million temporary permits set to expire by the end of 2025, including 766,000 held by foreign students, immigration authorities are closely monitoring compliance. Conservative MPs have raised concerns about managing the scale of expiring visas, while Immigration Minister Marc Miller assures that monitoring mechanisms, such as the Canada Border Services Agency, will enforce rules.
Postgraduate Work Permits (PGWPs)
PGWPs have been a critical stepping stone for international students aiming for permanent residency. However, the tightening of immigration policies has made these permits more competitive. By the end of 2023, 396,235 students held PGWPs—almost three times the number in 2018. Yet, with lakhs of these permits expiring in 2024-25, many students face uncertain futures amid reduced opportunities for residency.
Protests and Rising Concerns
Students from regions like Punjab have been vocal about their frustrations, camping in tents in Brampton since August 2024. They express disillusionment with Canada’s shifting policies, which they feel contradict the initial promises of stable pathways to residency. Additionally, concerns over an increase in asylum claims by international students have prompted the government to accelerate the processing of these applications to address potential misuse.
Conclusion
Canada’s evolving immigration policies reflect a balance between domestic priorities, such as housing, and the aspirations of international students. While some temporary residents may receive renewals or PGWPs, others face growing uncertainty. As competition intensifies, students must adapt to the changing landscape and explore alternative strategies to achieve their goals in Canada. The future remains challenging but not without opportunities for those prepared to navigate these changes.
