The Canadian government has introduced new immigration policies that effectively restrict the conversion of study permits to permanent residency for international students.
Under these regulations, international students will be required to return to their home countries upon the expiration of their study visas.
This development marks the end of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) policy and eliminates avenues such as asylum claims and other pathways previously available for study visa holders to obtain permanent residency.
Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Marc Miller, disclosed this during an interview on Tuesday, where he discussed the country’s immigration framework and key issues impacting international students.
International Students Protest
The announcement follows protests by international students across Canada, demanding a direct pathway from study visas to permanent residency or an extension of their permits.
In response, Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated, “When people come here and decide they want to be students, there are no guarantees to become permanent residents.”
He emphasized the distinct differences between Canadian study permits and resident permits. While acknowledging the students’ right to protest, Miller reiterated that Canada’s immigration policies prioritize maintaining order and balancing the country’s system.
Students Direct Scheme (SDS)
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) was introduced by the Canadian government in 2018 as a fast-track program to process study permit applications within 20 days for eligible students from select countries.
Initially targeting specific regions, the program was later expanded to include students from Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam, largely due to evolving political dynamics.
However, Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized that the government is now prioritizing visas based on Canada’s safety and diplomatic interests, signaling a shift in focus for the country’s immigration policies.
Work Permit Extension
The postgraduate work permits (PGWPs) currently held by many international students in Canada is close to expiry hence their pressure on the Canadian government for extensions.
Minister Miller says the government would not give dis group of students automatic extensions.
“Some students would have to make a difficult decision as to whether they would leave or not” as it is necessary for the government to match work permits with what the Canadian labor market needs.
He also says the government has taken measures to reduce the number of temporary residents, including international students, in order to manage the flows more effectively.
Miller also states “We need to reduce permanent residency by over 20%.” This is after one latest reduction of permanent residency quota by the Canadian government just did.
Canada’s Labour Shortage
Canada is currently reviewing its immigration laws to address long-term challenges, including an aging population and labor shortages, while ensuring minimal strain on housing and public services.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller highlighted the importance of attracting young workers to sustain the tax system and support the nation’s healthcare infrastructure, emphasizing their role in counteracting the economic impact of an aging population.
To this end, miller says “to end immigration in three years does not make sense economically.” That is why the government has decided to reduce the immigration level gradually to 20%.
According to him, this way new immigrants can integrate effectively into the workforce while supporting economic stability.
Resolving Asylum Claims
Canada continues to see a growing number of asylum claims, particularly from international students, some of whom misuse the process as a last resort to remain in the country.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller has stressed the importance of preserving the integrity of Canada’s refugee system, underscoring that many of these claims lack genuine merit.
To effectively manage its immigration system, Miller emphasized the need for collaboration between federal, provincial, and educational institutions. This coordination aims to address labor market demands and meet the socio-economic needs of local communities.
Miller also highlighted the varying needs of Canada’s provinces, explaining the necessity of tailoring immigration systems to address their specific requirements while maintaining the overall framework’s integrity.
The impact of these forthcoming immigration policies on international students remains uncertain. However, Canada’s long-term goal of attracting and retaining global talent is clear, even as the international student community closely monitors these developments.