A recent update on September 18, 2024, introduced new rules, including limits on international student numbers and changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. The SOWP policy is also becoming stricter.
These changes are being made to:
- Control the rising number of temporary residents and prevent misuse by some employers.
- Ease pressure on the housing and job markets.
- Continue attracting skilled immigrants to Canada.
Check out our latest video where we discuss the new immigration policies in Canada and who will be affected by them
The goal is to maintain a balance between welcoming newcomers and managing challenges like housing and job availability.
The federal government is tightening immigration policies due to several significant issues. One of the main concerns is the sharp rise in asylum claims, especially from international students, which have increased by nearly 650 per cent over the past five years, according to The Globe and Mail.
Additionally, there has been growing misuse of the system, with fraudulent documents being used to obtain student visas. For instance, 700 Indian students who applied through Education Migration Services, Jalandhar, run by Brijesh Mishra, face deportation after their admission offer letters were found to be fake. The students paid Rs 16-20 lakh for all expenses excluding air tickets and security deposits (The Economic Times, 2023-05-08). Most of these students had completed their studies, obtained work permits, and gained work experience, but the issue surfaced when they applied for PR (indianexpress.com, 2023-03-18). Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) has urged the government to waive the deportation of 150 Punjabi students involved in the case, as per the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) (India Blooms News Service, 2023-05-31). A parliamentary committee has also called on the CBSA to immediately halt the deportations (Toronto Star, 2023-06-08).
This growing misuse of the system has caused delays for genuine asylum seekers who are in need of support. The rise in fake asylum claims and increased reliance on welfare is also placing a strain on Canada’s economy, prompting the government to implement stricter immigration controls. The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) has witnessed a rise in fraud and an increased number of vulnerable workers across the country.
Challenges Faced by International Students under Changing Immigration Policies
Recent changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) have led to significant consequences for temporary residents, especially international students. New policies are impacting all temporary residents uniformly, including those with genuine intentions to study and work in Canada. One major challenge is the confusion faced by international students already enrolled in Canadian educational institutions. Many of these students are contemplating switching their courses or colleges to align with more in-demand fields, but they fear that doing so could affect their eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). This uncertainty adds a layer of stress for students navigating the already complex immigration system.
Beyond policy-related concerns, international students are also grappling with increasing financial pressure. Changing programs mid-way often means higher fees, creating further financial strain. In addition, competition for limited seats in Canadian colleges has intensified as more students aim to enrol in courses deemed more favourable for securing future employment. Unfortunately, this high demand has led to some consultants and institutions exploiting the situation by charging students higher fees under the pretext of helping them secure spots in these sought-after courses.
However, there are steps international students can take to increase their chances of success both during and after their studies in Canada. While many suggest improving IELTS scores or securing employment as easy ways to increase immigration points, there are additional strategies to significantly enhance a student’s profile. For instance, completing your graduation before coming to Canada ensures a stronger educational foundation and prevents the need for course changes that could affect PGWP eligibility. Additionally, gaining at least one year of work experience before arriving can make a student’s profile more competitive. Pursuing a master’s program in Canada is another effective approach, as it not only boosts academic qualifications but also enhances the chances of securing employment post-graduation. These steps help to increase immigration points and lay a solid foundation for securing future job opportunities in Canada.
Key Points for Consideration:
- Uniform Policy Impact:
The new immigration policies affect all temporary residents, including international students, equally, regardless of their unique circumstances. - PGWP Eligibility Concerns:
International students fear that switching courses or institutions may jeopardize their Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility, creating confusion and uncertainty. - Financial Burden:
The pressure to switch to more in-demand courses puts additional financial strain on international students, who often face increased tuition and associated costs. - Competition for Limited Seats:
Canadian colleges have limited availability for certain programs, leading to fierce competition among students seeking to secure spots in these high-demand courses. - Fee Exploitation by Consultants and Institutions:
Some consultants and educational institutions are exploiting the demand for in-demand courses by increasing fees, charging international students more under the promise of securing admission into these programs. - Additional Strategies for Success:
Completing graduation before coming to Canada, gaining at least one year of work experience, and pursuing a master’s program are effective strategies that can help students increase their immigration points and improve their chances of securing future employment.
Conclusion
The recent changes to Canada’s immigration policies have brought about significant challenges for international students, particularly concerning the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). With increased competition, financial burdens, and concerns over eligibility, international students must navigate a complex system. However, by taking proactive steps such as completing graduation before arriving in Canada, gaining work experience, or pursuing a master’s program, students can strengthen their profiles and increase their chances of long-term success in Canada. Adapting to these changes will require careful planning, but it can pave the way for a brighter future.
