In light of Canada’s impending immigration reform, a significant number of international students have mobilized in protest against the new regulations implemented by the federal government under Justin Trudeau’s leadership. City News Toronto’s report highlights the active participation of around 70,000 foreign students in protests spanning various provinces such as Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.
The elimination of the work permit for international students in 2021 under the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program and the recent introduction of a two-year cap on international student visas by the federal government last year have significantly impacted the international student community in Canada.
In 2023, foreign students made up 37 percent of study visa holders in Canada, adding to the strains from the housing crisis, unemployment, and other services. The government anticipates a 35 percent decrease in foreign student intake due to the visa cap. Recently, the Canadian government announced that foreign nationals can no longer apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) at the border.
Protests have erupted, with concerns raised by the Naujawan Support Network about potential deportations for graduates as their work permits expire. Additionally, new provincial policies have led to a 25% reduction in permanent residency nominations. Mehakdeep Singh, a former international student facing deportation, expressed frustration, stating, “I spent six years taking risks to come to Canada… the government has taken advantage of us,” to City News Toronto.
Immigrant workers in Brampton have also rallied against accusations linking them to local housing and job crises….
