Toronto: Canada has dramatically increased its visa rejections in 2024, turning away more than 2.3 million temporary resident applicants—a sharp rise from 1.8 million in 2023.
The move reflects growing public pressure to curb immigration amid soaring housing costs and economic concerns.
According to the Aviation A2Z report, Air Canada and other international carriers also see reduced passenger traffic at major airports, including Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), as fewer foreign workers, students, and tourists gain entry. Meanwhile, Ottawa’s Lester B. Pearson International Airport (YOW) has also reported a decline in international arrivals.
Stricter visa plicies in action
According to data reviewed by The Toronto Star, Canada rejected 2,359,157 temporary resident applications in 2024, spanning study permits, work permits, and visitor visas.
Key rejection trends include:
Student Visa Rejections: 52% of applications were denied, marking a rise in rejections and contributing to a 46% decline in overall student visa applications (from 868,000 in 2023 to 469,000 in 2024).
Work Permit Rejections: 22% of work permit applications were refused, a slight improvement from 23% in 2023.
Tourist Visa Denials: Many visitor visa applicants faced rejection under Canada's new border policies.
Despite the crackdown, Canada remains flexible on visitor records—legal temporary stays without work or study rights. Applications surged to 389,254 in 2024, nearly doubling 2019’s numbers, though only 5% were denied.
Permanent residency targets cut
In addition to tightening temporary visa approvals, Canada has lowered its permanent residency targets:
395,000 new residents in 2025
380,000 in 2026
365,000 in 2027
The decision aligns with growing concerns over housing shortages and rising living costs, as many Canadians blame the influx of temporary residents for exacerbating the crisis.
Impact on international students
With study visa applications plummeting 46%, Canada risks losing its appeal as a top education destination. The trend mirrors similar declines in Australia, the UK, and the US, as stricter immigration policies discourage international enrollments.
Canada’s shift in immigration strategy prioritises economic stability over high intake numbers, signaling a challenging road ahead for prospective students, workers, and tourists.
Experts suggest that securing a Canadian visa will likely remain difficult in the foreseeable future.