These protests have erupted across various provinces, including Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia, reflecting the growing discontent among foreign students.
According to City News Toronto, the unrest is fueled by recent policy changes that have significantly impacted international students.
In 2021, Canada abolished the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which previously allowed international students to gain work experience after completing their studies.
Last year, the federal government further tightened immigration rules by introducing a two-year cap on international student visas.
Protest in Canada
These changes have deeply affected the student population. By 2023, international students comprised 37% of all study visa holders in Canada, intensifying pressures on housing, employment, and other services.
The new cap on student visas is expected to decrease the intake of foreign students by 35%, exacerbating the situation further.
In response to these challenges, the Canadian government announced in June that foreign nationals would no longer be allowed to apply for a PGWP at the border, adding to the difficulties faced by international students.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that the protests are driven by fears that many graduates may face deportation when their work permits expire at the end of the year. The Naujawan Support Network, a student advocacy group, has voiced serious concerns, warning that the situation is dire for many students.
Adding to the challenges, new provincial policies have reduced the number of permanent residency nominations by 25%, making it even more difficult for international students to remain in Canada.
Mehakdeep Singh, a former international student now facing deportation, expressed his frustration to City News Toronto: “I spent six years taking risks to come to Canada. I studied, worked, paid taxes, and earned enough Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, but the government has taken advantage of us.”
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