The Canadian government has announced a significant reduction in the number of study permits issued to international students, cutting them by 35% in 2024. This is a response to growing concerns over immigration abuse and its impact on housing and social services. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stressed the importance of cracking down on “bad actors” who take advantage of students, while still recognizing the value immigration brings to the Canadian economy. The move, which follows a 10% reduction planned for 2025, aims to address the pressures caused by the influx of international students.
Stricter Immigration Policies and Permit Reductions
In 2025, Canada plans to issue only 437,000 study permits, a 10% decrease from 2024’s numbers, and significantly lower than the 509,390 permits issued in 2023. This reduction is part of broader measures introduced by the Canadian government to curb immigration and reduce the strain on infrastructure and services. The Foreign Minister highlighted that “coming to Canada is a privilege, not a right,” reflecting the government’s desire to limit temporary residency to 5% of the population, down from the current 6.8%. These changes are aimed at ensuring the country’s immigration system remains manageable.
Impact on Work Permits and Temporary Residency
In addition to reducing student permits, Canada will also tighten regulations on work permits, particularly for foreign workers and spouses of international students. This is intended to limit temporary residency, which has surged in recent years, contributing to housing shortages and stretched social services. The government is also ramping up scrutiny on visa applications to prevent fraud and reduce rejected asylum claims. These measures come at a critical time as Trudeau faces political pressure ahead of the 2025 general elections, with immigration becoming a key issue in Canadian politics.
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