Thousands of international students across Canada are facing growing hardship after several food banks began limiting their services exclusively to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. As food prices continue to climb and part-time job opportunities shrink, students say the removal of access to food banks has left them without a vital lifeline.
In cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Surrey, students who previously relied on food banks for essential groceries now find themselves in financial crisis. Speaking to reporters, a 27-year-old student from Hyderabad currently working at a restaurant in Vancouver explained that food banks had helped him save between 300 and 400 Canadian dollars each month. “It’s a significant amount when you’re juggling tuition, rent, and utilities,” he said.
Another student pursuing a master’s degree in business management in Surrey shared similar struggles. “I came here with some savings, but I didn’t expect food to be this expensive,” he said. “Food banks really helped me stretch my budget. Now that they’ve stopped helping us, I’ve started skipping meals.”
According to a report published on May 18, 2025, by The Times of India, food bank restrictions were quietly introduced in recent weeks. Many student advocacy groups were caught off guard by the policy shift. Food bank organizers have defended the move by citing the requirement that international students show proof of financial independence to obtain their study visas. However, students argue that paperwork rarely matches the cost of living on the ground.
“I took a loan to come here and study,” said another student from Hyderabad currently employed at a coffee shop in Toronto. “That loan doesn’t consider grocery inflation or the fact that jobs are so hard to find now. We’re not asking for handouts — we’re trying to stay afloat.”
Although international students are permitted to work up to 24 hours per week during their academic terms, finding consistent employment has become increasingly difficult. Many retailers and hospitality businesses have reduced staffing, and when jobs do become available, Canadian citizens are often prioritized. “It used to be possible to survive by picking up a couple of shifts,” said the Toronto student. “Now those jobs are disappearing. We have no job, no food bank, and no support.”
As grocery costs rise and employment opportunities dry up, international students are calling for urgent action and more inclusive support systems. With many already cutting back on food and essentials, their situation is growing more precarious by the day
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