Once seen as a beacon for immigrants seeking stability and opportunity, Canada is increasingly viewed as an expensive and often unattainable destination for newcomers. Stories like those of Iranian couple Hamed Heydarzadeh and Mansooreh Fereidooni highlight the difficulties many face in achieving permanent residency (PR) and the emotional and financial toll of navigating Canada’s evolving immigration policies.
A Frustrating Journey for Permanent Residency
Heydarzadeh and Fereidooni moved to Canada in 2020, leaving behind their assets and careers in Iran for a chance at a better life. Five years and $50,000 later, their path to PR remains uncertain. Delays, policy changes, and complications related to Heydarzadeh’s mandatory military service in Iran have left the couple in limbo. With his employer set to close, Heydarzadeh’s PR application hangs in the balance, forcing him to consider moving to another country.
The Financial Burden of Immigration
Many newcomers echo similar sentiments, citing high costs and limited opportunities. A CBC-commissioned survey revealed that two-thirds of immigrants felt the cost of immigrating to Canada was excessive and underestimated. The tightening of immigration policies, including a 21% cut to 2025 targets, has further intensified competition, leaving many feeling trapped in a system that promises more than it delivers.
Sacrifices and Disillusionment
International students like Aryan Panchal have spent years and significant sums pursuing education in Canada, only to face limited job prospects and uncertainty about their future. Panchal, who has spent over $100,000 on tuition, has had to cut back on basic necessities like food to make ends meet. His brother Shivam is also struggling to secure PR, highlighting the systemic barriers newcomers face.
Broken Promises and Difficult Choices
For some, the Canadian dream has come at a steep price. Ankit and Akash, a same-sex couple from India, sought freedom and acceptance in Canada but now grapple with financial hardships and a diminished quality of life. Despite the challenges, many immigrants are hesitant to return to their home countries, fearing wasted investments and lost opportunities.
A System in Crisis
Experts and advocates point to systemic issues within Canada’s immigration system, including backlogs, unclear pathways to residency, and insufficient support for newcomers. Political science professor Phil Triadafilopoulos notes that the struggles faced by immigrants are part of a broader societal issue, with the Canadian dream increasingly out of reach for many.
As Canada reassesses its immigration policies, the stories of immigrants highlight the urgent need for a system that aligns costs with opportunities, ensuring that the promise of a better life is attainable for all.