Protests Erupt Across Canada As 70,000 International Students Face Deportation

Canada is currently witnessing widespread protests as approximately 70,000 international students take to the streets against the new immigration policies implemented by the federal government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

These demonstrations, which have spread across various provinces such as Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia, highlight the growing unrest among foreign students.

According to a report by City News Toronto, the discontent stems from a series of policy changes that have significantly impacted international students.

In 2021, Canada eliminated the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which previously allowed international students to gain work experience after completing their studies.

Further tightening of immigration rules came last year when the federal government introduced a two-year cap on international student visas.

The changes have had a profound effect on the student population. By 2023, international students made up 37% of all study visa holders in Canada, contributing to the strain on housing, employment, and other services.

The new cap on student visas is expected to reduce the intake of foreign students by 35%, further exacerbating the situation.

In response to these challenges, the Canadian government announced in June that foreign nationals would no longer be able to apply for a PGWP at the border, adding to the difficulties faced by international students.

The protests have been fueled 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 been vocal in its concerns, warning that the situation is dire for many students.

The situation has been compounded by new provincial policies that have reduced the number of permanent residency nominations by 25%, making it even harder for international students to remain in the country.

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.”