In recent years, Canada has become a prime destination for international students, particularly those from Punjab, India. However, recent policy shifts by the Canadian government may be threatening the aspirations of many young Indians who dream of studying and building a future in the Great White North.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Canada has seen a dramatic rise in the number of temporary residents, a trend that has spurred a growing concern among Canadians. Many believe that the influx of immigrants is putting undue pressure on government resources and services. In response, Trudeau’s cabinet is now contemplating significant reductions in both temporary and permanent resident streams.
The Canadian government has pledged to reduce the temporary resident population to 5% of the country’s total population within three years. As of April, this demographic stood at 6.8%, and projections from the Bank of Canada suggest that it could rise further if current trends continue. In light of these concerns, the government is actively reviewing various immigration pathways to balance support for newcomers with effective integration and success pathways.
For Indian students, who have increasingly turned to Canada for higher education, these policy changes could have profound implications. Since 2013, the number of Indian students moving to Canada has surged, with figures showing that by 2022, Indian students constituted about 40% of all international enrollments in Canadian institutions. However, recent changes in immigration policies are casting a shadow over their dreams.
A significant shift in the rules pertains to the processing of work permits. As of August 28, 2024, new work permit applications from individuals holding visitor visas in Canada will no longer be accepted. This change could affect many prospective students who were planning to transition from visitor status to work permits.
Moreover, starting September 1, 2024, new regulations stipulate that only graduates from public colleges or high-standard private institutions will be eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs). This new rule excludes students from private colleges offering licensed courses, making it more challenging for them to obtain work permits after graduation.
On a brighter note, graduates of Master’s programs will now be eligible for a three-year PGWP regardless of the length of their course. This change provides an extended opportunity for graduates to gain valuable work experience in Canada, which can be a crucial step towards applying for Permanent Residency (PR).
However, the changes also affect the spouses of international students. Only the spouses of students enrolled in Master’s, Doctoral, and professional programs will now be eligible for open work permits. This restriction makes it more difficult for the spouses of students in other programs to find employment in Canada.
For those who already hold work permits, there is a silver lining: existing permits will remain valid until their expiration date, with no changes to previously issued permits. Additionally, students who began their studies before September 1, 2024, at public-private partnership institutions will still be eligible for PGWPs, providing some protection for those who have already embarked on their Canadian educational journey.
As Canada navigates these new policy changes, the future for Indian students hoping to study and work in the country remains uncertain. While the government’s aim is to manage immigration more effectively, the impact on the Canadian dream for many young Indians could be profound, affecting their plans for education, work, and long-term residency in Canada.
