As Canada prepares for a major immigration overhaul, tens of thousands of international students have marched to the streets to oppose the new policies implemented by the Justin Trudeau-led federal government.
According to City News Toronto, around 70,000 foreign students engaged in nationwide rallies, which took place in regions such as Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.
Under the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, the work permit for international students was eliminated in 2021. Additionally, the federal government imposed a two-year limit on international student visas last year.
International students made up 37% of Canadians with study visas in 2023, adding to the strain already caused by the shortage of housing, joblessness, and other services.
The administration anticipates a 35 percent decrease in the number of international students admitted as a result of the student visa cap. In response, the Canadian government declared in June that foreign nationals would no longer be able to apply at the border for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
The Naujawan Support Network, a student advocacy group, has issued a warning amid the protests that many graduates may be deported when their work licenses expire at the end of the year.
New provincial rules that have reduced the number of nominations for permanent residency by 25% have made the problem worse.
“I took chances for six years in order to travel to Canada.Mehakdeep Singh, a former foreign student who is in danger of deportation, told City News Toronto, “I studied, worked, paid taxes, and earned enough Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, but the government has taken advantage of us.”
Similarly, immigrant workers have held rallies around Brampton in recent months to challenge assertions that they are to responsible for the city’s housing and job issues.
Bottom Line
The decision to eliminate the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program and impose a two-year limit on international student visas represents a marked shift in Canada’s approach to international students.
Historically, Canada has been seen as a welcoming destination for students from around the world, offering pathways to work and permanent residency post-graduation.
These opportunities have been a major draw for international students, who contribute significantly to the Canadian economy, not only through tuition fees but also through their participation in the workforce and as consumer
