Canada's Immigration Strategy: Impact on Students and Workers

In a significant policy shift, Canada has announced new restrictions on international student permits and work eligibility, aimed at reducing the influx of temporary residents. This decision, which is likely to impact many Indian nationals, comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government faces declining approval ratings ahead of next year’s federal elections.

According to data from Canada’s immigration department, the country granted 509,390 study permits in 2023 and 175,920 in the first seven months of 2024. However, the new measures will limit the issuance of international study permits to 437,000 in 2025. Additionally, the eligibility for work permits for the spouses of certain students and temporary foreign workers will be further restricted.

This policy shift is particularly striking against the backdrop of a sharp rise in temporary residents, which has doubled from 1.4 million in the second quarter of 2022 to 2.8 million in the same period in 2024. The Canadian government aims to reduce the temporary resident population from 6.8% to 5% of the total population.

For Indian students, who constitute a significant portion of Canada’s international student demographic—around 40%—these changes could prompt a revaluation of their study destinations. Recent data indicates that approximately 427,000 Indian students are currently studying in Canada, a figure that has surged by 260% from 2013 to 2022. With these new regulations in place, many may consider alternatives in countries like the US, UK, or Australia.

Conclusion

As Canada navigates this challenging landscape, the implications of these policy changes will be felt across various sectors, particularly in education and labor. Indian students, who have contributed significantly to Canada’s diverse educational environment, may seek new opportunities elsewhere. It remains to be seen how these shifts will reshape the international student landscape in Canada and impact the country’s economy and multicultural fabric. For stakeholders in the education and immigration sectors, adapting to these changes will be crucial in the coming months.

As we move forward, it will be essential to monitor how these policies evolve and their effects on both students and the broader Canadian society.

About Anywr

Anywr is a French international group specializing in the global talent mobility and international recruitment. The company supports businesses in the search and integration of international talent, offering a complete range of services from sourcing to settlement. Anywr has a network of over 300 consultants in 16 countries. A member of the FrenchTech 120, the group is now composed of nearly 900 employees worldwide, with 400 in France, serving the largest French and international groups. Anywr is an innovative and responsible company, committed to its communities, which puts its expertise and solutions at the service of social integration projects and diversity. ANYWR has adopted the status of a Mission-led Company (Loi Pacte) since June 2021.

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