With an estimated total of around 800,000 international students in Canada, the Indian cohort stands as the largest, constituting a significant portion.
In 2022 alone, out of the 549,570 study permits granted, a substantial 226,000 were allocated to Indian nationals.
Canada To Address Influx of International Students
Amidst a pressing housing crisis that threatens the political prospects of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Canada is currently evaluating measures to address the influx of international students while simultaneously combatting the exploitation of these students by certain educational institutions.
Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities Minister Sean Fraser recently weighed in on this matter. He acknowledged that considering a cap on the number of international students was among the options being explored. Fraser emphasized the necessity of posing tough questions in light of reports about the exploitation of vulnerable international students by certain institutions.
Fraser further noted that some institutions are prioritizing financial gains over the well-being of international students, failing to offer them quality education that aligns with Canada’s goal of attracting future permanent residents and citizens. He underscored that institutions that are enrolling large numbers of foreign students should also be proactive in alleviating the housing shortage, which has been intensifying in the Canadian rental market.
Canada Facing Housing Crisis, Rental Prices Surge
The housing crisis has assumed a pivotal role in Canada’s political landscape, with the ruling Liberal Party experiencing a decline in popularity compared to the opposition Conservative Party in recent polls.
Rental prices have surged due to the growing influx of students entering the country. According to Rentals.ca, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment escalated to CA$2078 in July, with even steeper rates in cities like Vancouver, where one-bedroom accommodations averaged CA$3000.
The concentration of Indian students is particularly noteworthy, with 226,000 study permits granted to them in 2022, constituting the largest segment. Up until June, Indian nationals accounted for 96,175 out of the total of 238,960 permits issued.
Fraser, who held the position of immigration minister until recently, has been engaged in discussions with his successor, Marc Miller. These conversations revolve around distinguishing reputable private institutions that genuinely attract students for legitimate reasons from those that exploit them for profit. As Canada navigates these challenges, it seeks a balanced approach that both safeguards the interests of international students and addresses the broader housing crisis.
