Canada’s international study permits surge, despite cap
Record-breaking approvals for 2024 challenge the federal limits as numbers cross the 2023 statistics, amid growing housing crisis
Toronto: Canada's commitment to limiting international study permits appears to be facing a major hurdle – a surge in approvals. Despite a cap announced in January, data reveals a significant increase in permits issued in the first five months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
Record approvals raise concerns
The numbers are stark. With 216,620 permits issued in the first half of 2024, Canada is already surpassing the pace of the previous year (200,205 permits for the same period). This trend follows a record-breaking year in 2023, with a total of 682,420 permits issued.
India leads the influx
Indian students form the largest international student group in Canada. In 2023, they received over 278,000 permits, dwarfing the number granted to Chinese students (58,230). This trend continues in 2024, with Indian student permits up from 85,805 to 91,510 in the first five months.
Impact beyond education
The influx of students is straining Canada's social fabric. Housing affordability has become a critical issue, with reports of student homelessness and overwhelmed food banks. A recent case of an Indian student living under a bridge in Toronto highlights the severity of the problem.
Government cap faces scrutiny
In January, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced a cap aiming to reduce 2024 study permits to 360,000 (a 35% decrease). However, the current pace of approvals suggests achieving this target might be difficult.
Critics point to systemic issues
Conservative immigration critic Tom Kmiec argues that the system is overwhelmed, accusing the Liberal government of neglecting underlying issues. He emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy to manage student visa numbers effectively.
Uncertainty remains
The full impact of the cap is yet to be determined, acknowledges IRCC spokesperson Rémi Larivière. He highlights factors like provincial allocations and approval rates that influence student intake.
Looking ahead
As Canada grapples with balancing its international student program with social and economic realities, the coming months will be crucial. The effectiveness of the current cap in addressing the pressure on Canadian cities remains to be seen.