Canada Banned International Students: Enforces 2-Year Entry Restriction

In a bid to alleviate mounting pressure on Canada’s housing and public health systems, the government has implemented a two-year restriction on the entry of international students. The move expected to have a significant impact on the issuance of study permits and related visas, with a projected decrease of approximately 35%.

Key Points:

1. Rising Numbers: In 2022, the number of international students in Canada surged to 800,000, marking a substantial increase of 214,000 from the previous year.
2. Government Response: Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Marc Miller, announced plans to issue study permits to 360,000 international students in the current year, aiming to strike a balance in the face of growing challenges.
3. Provincial Cooperation: All provinces in Canada have adopted a uniform policy, with each province playing a crucial role in enforcing the restrictions and preventing the entry of international students.
4. Targeted Restrictions: The entry restrictions specifically target international students enrolled in diploma and undergraduate programs, exempting those renewing their study permits or completing their education.
5. Impact on Work Permits: Students completing their education will not issued work permits for public-private, industrial, and commercial institutions, a measure implemented to address public health concerns.
6. Flexibility Challenges: Minister Marc Miller highlighted instances where certain educational institutions exceeded their capacity, leading to public health issues. The government’s decision aims to address these challenges.
7. Economic Implications: The restrictions come in the wake of a surge in residential unit costs in Canada, reaching a staggering $500,000, accompanied by a 22% rise in rental prices.

While Canada acknowledges the contribution of international students, the new restrictions reflect a strategic response to balance the needs of the education system, public health, and housing demands. The government aims to ensure a sustainable and harmonious environment for both domestic and international students.