How Will Canada’s New Immigration Policy Affect Indian Students? Have They Been Deceived?
Among foreign students residing in Canada, 40% are from India. Young people who dream of living in Canada on student visas have now faced a major setback due to Trudeau’s new immigration policy.
As a result of these policy changes, more than 70,000 foreign students are at risk of being forced to return to their home countries. Protests have also started in response. Today, let’s explore why so many Indian students are in Canada and what impact Trudeau’s new policy will have on Indian students currently residing there.
It is noteworthy that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted on social media, stating that they are reducing the number of low-wage, temporary foreign workers in Canada. The labor market has changed, and it is time to invest in Canadian workers and youth.
Following this announcement, protests have erupted among Indian workers and students living in Canada. Notably, in 2023, there were 900,000 international students in Canada, and by the end of 2024, the number of permanent residents was expected to increase to 500,000.
Feeling Deceived?
The Canadian government has consistently stated that a primary reason for bringing immigrants to Canada is to encourage economic growth and stability. However, following recent changes in policy, Indian students are now feeling deceived.
Former international student Mahakdeep Singh, who faced immigration challenges, shared that he took a six-year risk to come to Canada. He studied, worked, repaid loans, and achieved the required points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), but feels that the government has taken advantage of him.
Existing Housing Crisis
It’s important to note that students in Canada have already been grappling with housing issues. Last September, a significant uproar was caused by an Instagram post highlighting the housing crisis.
The construction of new housing units is very limited, and record-high interest rates have pushed new housing units beyond the reach of both average Canadians and new immigrants. When it comes to employment, there has long been a shortage of part-time jobs in Canada.
Foreign students are already struggling severely due to inadequate housing. With the new policy in place, the dream of education in Canada is set to become even more challenging for Indians.
Concerns Over Safety
Recent reports of the shooting death of Indian student Chirag Antil and attacks on several other Indian students have also shattered the morale of Indian students in Canada. The Foreign Minister has demanded an impartial investigation and action in Chirag Antil’s case.
With the new policy, the Trudeau government’s intentions are becoming clear: obtaining education, employment, or citizenship in Canada will become increasingly difficult for Indian students.
Why So Many Students Choose Canada Each Year
In reality, the motivation for going to Canada is not solely about education. This is because a student visa is a relatively straightforward path to entering Canada, which can then lead to opportunities for permanent residency and citizenship.
Foreign nationals can easily enter Canada on a student visa. There is a significant number of Indian students in Canada, creating a sort of “mini India” within the country.
40% of International Students Are Indian
According to data from the Canadian government, in 2022, out of a total of 550,000 international students, 226,000 were from India. This accounts for 40% of the total international student population. Previously, 320,000 Indian students were residing in Canada on student visas, many of whom were living in motels or basements.
