More limits on international students, warns Canada

OTTAWA – The Immigration minister of Canada has disclosed that if post-secondary institutions do not act as per the requirements, the government will do more to limit the number of international students.

Canada is working harder to strengthen the study permit system while implementing restrictions on the number of international students. In the same spirit, Minister Marc Miller has called on educational institutions to fulfill their responsibilities with their associates of students from abroad.

As per the minister, the government has taken important steps to strengthen the international student visa system and will relook if further restrictions are required.

“Post-secondary institutions have a critical responsibility when recruiting students abroad, as well as supporting them here,” he wrote on X.

According to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the government is set to limit the entry of international students and 35% fewer students would be allowed entry as compared to the figures recorded in 2023.

This cap on international student numbers, a temporary policy lasting for two years, is part of Canada’s broader initiative to address the challenges posed by unsustainable growth in certain provinces.

The IRCC emphasizes that the established caps will be calculated based on population distribution, ensuring significant reductions where international student populations have seen the most unsustainable growth. Notably, these restrictions will not impact existing study permit holders or those seeking renewals, with exemptions also granted for individuals pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees.

Besides Canada, Australia has also made the criteria tough for international students. The government of United Kingdom has also revised its policy for international students who would not be allowed to bring in dependents to the country with few exemptions.