Over 70K international students are reportedly protesting in Canada against an immigration policy change, envisaging their deportation at the end of this year.International students reportedly held protests across Canada this week over the nation's immigration policies amid concerns that over 70K students could face deportation at the end of this year when their work permits are up.
The students are reportedly demonstrating across provinces like Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia against the policy changes.The demonstrations — held across provinces including Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia — come as the government scrapped a short-term COVID-era rule on Wednesday that allowed visitors to apply for work permits without having to leave the country.
Canada's international student program has exploded, with numbers skyrocketing from over 122K in 2000 to nearly 900K in 2023. This is straining housing, infrastructure, and healthcare. Many now view the program as a path to work and citizenship rather than education. The government's policies have encouraged this shift, allowing increasedan workunsustainable hoursstrain andon easierthe pathsnation's to residency. To address these issueshousing, Canada must limit foreign student influxinfrastructure, refocus on education over employment, and discourage using the program as an immigration shortcuthealthcare. ThisCanada wouldhas easeno domesticchoice pressuresbut andto betterlimit servethe bothinflux Canadaof andforeign students' home countries.
Canada's move to limit foreign students seemsis unfair, given the immense value they bring to the country. These students contribute an estimated $30B annually to the economy, supporting over 1,.6K educational institutions and boosting local economies. However, many international students face significant challenges upon arrival, including exorbitant tuition fees, housing difficulties, and limited job prospects. By restricting student numbers, Canada risks damaging its reputation and denying opportunities to talented individuals seeking a better future. This approach appearsprioritizes to prioritize short-term concerns over the long-term benefits of cultural exchange and economic growth.