Ottawa:
In a significant move, the Canadian government has introduced key changes to student visas, impacting approximately 3,60,000 students this year.
The Immigration Minister, Mark Miller, recently announced a two-year limit on new study permits for international students,
leading to a projected 35 percent reduction in the number of visas compared to 2023.
Background and Criticism:
Housing Crisis Concerns:
The government’s decision comes in response to mounting criticism regarding the housing crisis triggered by the increasing influx of international students in recent years.
Community Enrichment:
Minister Mark Miller acknowledged that international students contribute significantly to local communities but emphasized the need for balance and sustainability.
Key Changes and Reforms:
Two-Year Limit on New Study Permits:
Starting in 2024, the Canadian government has imposed a two-year limit on new study permits, expecting around 360,000 approved study permits this year. Provinces and regions will allocate these permits to their Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs).
Re-evaluation in 2025:
To maintain program integrity and educational quality, Canada plans to continue implementing reforms, with a re-evaluation of the number of permits to be issued in 2025.
Action Against Unscrupulous Colleges:
The two-year limit is aimed at curbing the exploitation of international students by certain small private colleges with under-resourced campuses and high tuition fees.
Changes in Postgraduate Work Permits (PGWPs):
From September onwards, Canada will cease issuing PGWPs to students studying under the course licensing regime.
Spouse Work Permits:
Work permits for spouses of international students, excluding those in master’s and doctoral programs,
will no longer be issued in the coming weeks.
Financial Requirements:
Students must now demonstrate a minimum of 20,635 Canadian dollars in addition to their one-year tuition fees. Those bringing family members need to show an additional four thousand Canadian dollars.
Economic Contribution:
International students contribute around 22 billion Canadian dollars annually to the Canadian economy.
These reforms aim to strike a balance between welcoming international students and addressing concerns related to infrastructure, housing, and the overall student experience.
The government emphasizes the need for sustainable growth in the international student population.
