Canada: Changes in Student Visa Policy, Set Limits. Canada has set limits on the issuance of visas for international students from all countries, including Pakistan and India, for two years.
Announcing a 35% reduction in the number of international student visas globally, Canada has imposed restrictions on the issuance of visas. Due to the influx of international students, Canada is facing challenges in terms of health and housing.
This year, Canada will only accept 364,000 international students, marking a 35% decrease compared to the previous year. The quota for the next year will be determined at the end of this year. It should be noted that in 2022, Canada issued more than 800,000 study visas for students from around the world.
Federal Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino clarified that the recent decision will not apply to individuals aspiring to pursue Masters or Ph.D. programs. This recent policy change comes as a response to the significant surge in international students that Canada has experienced in recent years, resulting in challenges related to healthcare and housing infrastructure.
However, it's important to note that the decision will not impact individuals seeking to pursue Master's or Ph.D. programs. The focus appears to be on managing the overall influx of international students while still encouraging those pursuing higher-level academic qualifications.
Canada's decision to reduce the number of international student visas by 35% reflects a strategic effort to balance the intake of students and address the associated challenges, ensuring a more sustainable and manageable growth in the future.
The announcement signals a shift in the approach to visa issuance, with a more cautious stance in light of the current circumstances. It underscores the need for a more controlled and measured intake of international students to maintain the quality of education, support services, and infrastructure.
As the situation evolves, stakeholders, including educational institutions and prospective students, will be closely watching for further details on the implementation of these visa restrictions and any potential updates or adjustments to the policy.