Canada’s New Policy Sends Clear Message to International Students: Fewer Long-Term Visas and a Push to Return Home

NEW DELHI: Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, has outlined a new approach to immigration that signals a less welcoming stance toward international students. In an effort to balance the influx of foreign students with the country’s economic needs, Miller emphasized that study visas should not imply a promise of long-term stay in Canada.

Miller’s statement comes as Canada reviews its long-term visa policy for foreign students, aiming to slow immigration amid a record rise in population. This decision is part of a broader strategy to align immigration with labor market demands.

In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Miller stated, “People should come here to educate themselves and perhaps go home and take those skills back to their country. That hasn’t always been the case recently.”

A Less Welcoming Approach

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government is under pressure due to rising living costs, housing shortages, and higher unemployment rates. To address these issues, Canada has capped the number of international student visas, planning to issue 300,000 this year compared to 437,000 last year.

Officials are scrutinizing which students to keep and which to send back home. Miller acknowledged that Canada is now perceived as “less welcoming” for students, emphasizing that study visas should be seen as a qualitative proposition rather than a cheap way to attain permanent residency.

Impact on Indian Students

Indian students, the largest group of international students in Canada, may face significant implications due to this policy shift. India has been a major source of international students, especially in fields like engineering, computer science, and business. The Indian government has actively promoted education in Canada, making it a popular destination for Indian students seeking quality education and a diverse cultural experience.

However, the new policy could reduce the number of long-term visas granted to foreign students, affecting enrollment and disrupting the academic and career plans of Indian students already in Canada. Many students rely on long-term visas to complete their studies and secure employment opportunities. A reduction in these visas could force students to return to India prematurely, disrupting their progress and aspirations.

The policy could also impact the Indo-Canadian community, which has grown significantly. Many Indian students stay in Canada after completing their studies, contributing to the community and fostering cultural exchange. A reduction in long-term visas could limit the growth of this community, reducing its cultural and economic benefits.

Canada’s new immigration policy sends a complex message to international students, particularly those from India. While aiming to balance immigration with labor market demands, the potential reduction in long-term visas could lead to decreased enrollment, disrupted academic and career plans, and limited growth of the Indo-Canadian community. This shift underscores Canada’s evolving stance on international education and immigration.