This week, protests erupted across Canada as approximately 70,000 international students demonstrated against recent immigration policy changes. The demonstrations took place in key provinces, including Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.
The unrest follows the Canadian government’s introduction of new reforms that have left many students anxious about potential deportation. Notably, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program was abolished in 2021, which previously allowed students to gain work experience after graduation. Additionally, a two-year cap on international student visas was implemented last year, which is anticipated to decrease foreign student intake by 35%.
Student advocacy groups, such as the Naujawan Support Network, have raised concerns that the tightened regulations, including the recent ban on PGWP applications at the border, could lead to widespread deportations once current permits expire.
“I risked everything to come to Canada. I studied, worked, and paid taxes, yet the government is now turning its back on us,” said Mehakdeep Singh, an affected student.
The situation has been further strained by new provincial policies that have reduced permanent residency nominations by 25%, complicating the prospects for international students to stay in Canada. Immigrant workers have also joined the protests, disputing claims that they are exacerbating local housing and job shortages.
