**Amid Housing Crunch and High Costs of Living, Federal Government Examines Immigration Targets and International Student Programs**
The federal government’s immigration targets and plans for international students are under scrutiny due to the ongoing housing crisis and exorbitant living expenses. Immigration Minister Marc Miller has acknowledged the need to adjust international student enrollments but has assured that immigration numbers will remain unchanged.
However, the question remains: what should these adjustments entail, and will they be sufficient to address concerns about the exploitation of international students? Varun Khanna, president of the Montreal Youth Students Organization, argues that there should be a cap on fees charged to international students to prevent them from shouldering excessive financial burdens compared to domestic students. He points out that many students are forced to work tirelessly to cover their fees and rent, often sharing overcrowded living situations.
Bikram Singh, a member of the advocacy group Naujawan Support Network, adds that international students receive limited support upon arriving in Canada. He suggests that mandatory orientation programs be established to help students adjust to life in a new country and familiarize them with their rights. Additionally, Khanna believes that the 20-hour work limit for international students should be permanently lifted to alleviate the financial struggles they face due to high living costs and tuition fees. However, Singh warns that this could result in increased exploitation and wage theft.
Furthermore, Singh emphasizes housing as a major concern for international students. If the Canadian government wants these students to contribute to the development of the country, he argues, they must provide secure housing that allows them to live with dignity.
In response to these issues, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that they are conducting a review of the international students program, particularly in light of fraud concerns. They are actively consulting with universities, colleges, and other stakeholders to manage the program effectively. The IRCC spokesperson clarified that this review does not entail reducing the number of student visas issued, as the department does not establish caps for study permits like it does for permanent residence programs.
The shortage of skilled labor continues to be a significant challenge in Canada, with approximately 34 to 36 percent of businesses expected to face recruitment difficulties. International students working off-campus have become an integral part of the government’s strategy to address these labor shortages. From 2000 to 2018, the percentage of international students with paid employment income increased significantly. Last year, the government temporarily lifted the 20-hour work limit for international students, an exemption that is up for renewal in December.
The IRCC is also examining the impact of this exemption on labor shortages in Canada, recognizing that international students offer potential solutions to address these gaps.
Finally, the protests earlier this year by a group of international students underscored the issue of fraudulent activities by immigration consultants. These students claim to have fallen victim to a scam involving fake college admission letters. The evaluation of their cases is still ongoing.
Overall, the federal government is grappling with the complex challenges posed by the housing crisis, high living costs, and the need to protect and support international students. The ongoing review of the international students program aims to find solutions that align with Canada’s economic, social, and cultural goals while addressing issues such as fraud, exploitation, and inadequate housing.
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