Canada to Further Limit Number of International Students
For 2025, Canada will reduce international student permits by 10% from this year's levels, maintaining this limit through 2026. This represents a 36% decline from the 2023 numbers. However, Universities Canada has indicated that the country is already on track to undershoot this year’s target due to fewer applications from foreign students.
These changes aim to address the rapid growth of the temporary resident population, which includes foreign students, temporary workers, and asylum seekers. This demographic has expanded significantly post-pandemic, leading to criticisms of Trudeau's handling of immigration policies.
Miller emphasized the importance of a sustainable immigration system, stating, "The reality is that not everyone who wants to come to Canada will be able to — just like not everyone who wants to stay in Canada will be able to. Our immigration system must preserve its integrity and be well-managed and sustainable."
Canada's strong immigration initially supported the country's post-pandemic recovery and mitigated the impact of high interest rates on economic growth. However, the recent population surge—adding about three million people in the last three years—has put pressure on housing costs and public services, affecting Trudeau's popularity.
