Canada is considering imposing a cap on international student visas unless there are improvements in education quality and housing for newcomers. This action could potentially restrict a significant revenue stream for colleges and universities.
Over the last decade, Canada has seen a nearly threefold increase in its international student population, reaching 800,000 last year. These students pay nearly five times the fees of domestic students, significantly contributing to the economy, not just through tuition but also in housing costs. However, the escalating housing expenses are a direct result of a severe shortage of available housing options.
Marc Miller emphasised that post-secondary institutions and provinces have until September to ensure the readiness and success of international students. Statistics Canada reveals that, on average, international students pay CAD 36,123 for undergraduate programmes, a stark contrast to the CAD 6,834 paid by Canadian undergraduates.
The immigration minister has shown hesitance towards imposing a cap on international student visas. Instead, in October, he announced a crackdown on private colleges, prioritising the issuance of permits to students enrolled in institutions that provide outstanding accommodation and comprehensive support services.
“There are in provinces the diploma equivalent of puppy mills that are just churning out diplomas, and this is not a legitimate student experience,” he further added. However, he highlighted concerns regarding fraud and abuse occurring within Canada, emphasising the need to put an end to such practices. His primary concern revolves around unscrupulous individuals taking advantage of international students by offering substandard living conditions at exorbitant prices. Addressing this issue is imperative for improvement.
