Canada has implemented an immediate two-year cap on new international student visas to address a housing crisis and target institutions deemed “bad actors.” This move is expected to affect Indians planning to study in Canada. Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a 35% reduction in new study visas in 2024, resulting in an estimated 364,000 new approved permits. The cap will be reevaluated at the end of the year for 2025. The decision aims to manage temporary residence levels, curb growth in international student numbers, and address concerns related to housing shortages.

The federal government aims to target institutions taking advantage of international students through under-resourced campuses and high tuition fees. Provinces will determine how permits are distributed among universities and colleges. The cap also comes with additional measures, including requiring an attestation letter from a province or territory for international students applying for a permit. Changes to the post-graduation work permit program were also announced, affecting those in curriculum licensing arrangements and offering new opportunities for spouses of international students.

While the move is seen as a response to housing and regulatory concerns, critics blame Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s “mismanagement,” emphasizing the need to crack down on fraudulent practices without punishing talented students.

By : Kruthiga V S

—

#Canada #InternationalStudents #VisaCap #IndianStudents #Immigration #Education #HousingCrisis #StudentVisas #mindvoice #mindvoicenews #currentaffairs #currentnews #latestnews #ipsc #iaspreparation #upsc