In a move aimed at addressing concerns over exploitation and the quality of education provided to international students, Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced a two-year cap on admissions for international students in Canada.
The primary objective of this cap, according to Minister Miller, is to provide both federal and provincial governments the time they need to rectify a system that, in his view, takes advantage of high international student tuition fees while delivering subpar education in certain cases.
Starting this year, the cap will result in a significant 35 per cent reduction in the issuance of new study visas. However, certain provinces, notably Ontario, will experience an even more substantial reduction, exceeding 50 per cent.
Minister Miller has expressed concerns about the exploitation of international students and the need for urgent action. The imposed cap is a measure designed to bring about a substantial reduction in the number of new study visas, giving authorities the breathing space required to implement effective reforms.
In a move targeting specific institutions, the federal government will restrict postgraduate work permits for students attending schools following a private-public model starting September 1. This decision aims to ensure that students receive a quality education and discourages institutions from taking advantage of high tuition fees without delivering corresponding educational value.
Furthermore, the government is set to implement changes in open work permit eligibility. Beginning in a few weeks, these permits will only be available for the spouses of students enrolled in master's and doctoral programs, as well as professional programs such as medicine and law. This adjustment is intended to streamline opportunities for spouses while maintaining a focus on programs with a higher level of educational rigor.
Minister Miller has emphasized the collaborative nature of the government's efforts, highlighting the need for federal and provincial cooperation. Up to this point, provinces have been slow to address the issues at hand, and the federal government aims to work closely with them to expedite solutions.
The decision to cap international student admissions reflects the government's commitment to ensuring that Canada remains an attractive and responsible destination for global learners. By addressing concerns related to exploitation and education quality, Minister Miller and the federal government are taking steps to uphold the integrity of the Canadian education system and foster a positive experience for international students.
