Canada Extends Permanent Residency to Over 62,000 International Students

In 2023, Canada experienced a significant increase in immigration which played a crucial role in addressing the country's demographic and workforce needs.

In a surprising development, there was a notable rise in the number of foreign students awarded permanent residency, surpassing the previous year's figures and totalling 62,000. A significant proportion of those who obtained permanent residency in 2023 were former international students initially arriving in Canada on study visas. Once they completed their programs, these students seized the opportunity to fulfil the criteria for Canadian permanent residence.

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reports that as of November 2023, a total of 62,410 international students or graduates were able to become permanent residents in Canada. This number reflected a noteworthy rise of 9,670 compared to the preceding year.

Despite discussions about potential limitations, the housing crisis in Canada remains a notable issue due to the significant presence of international students. Many of these students secure permanent residency by acquiring valuable work experience through the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The rising numbers of international students further emphasize concerns about the affordability of housing and living expenses.

The Canadian government recognizes the impact that foreign students, temporary foreign workers, and non-permanent residents have on the growth of the country's population. Immigration Minister Marc Miller acknowledges the challenges and the government's consideration of potential modifications that could entail imposing limitations on the intake of non-permanent residents.

Nonetheless, there are worries regarding the potential consequences on the economy if there are restrictions placed on temporary workers and foreign students. A financial services firm in Canada has cautioned that such limitations might hinder the country's economic revival. Canadian Immigration has stated that this could result in a potential decline of 0.7% in real GDP by 2024 and slower growth over the subsequent four years. To tackle these concerns, the Express Entry Program has emerged as the swiftest pathway for international students to acquire permanent residency in Canada.

The influx of 330,000 new immigrants including students from Kenya has significantly enriched the nation's cultural tapestry, adding vibrancy and diversity to its social fabric. While these developments underscore the positive impact of immigration on Canada's demographic landscape, there remains an imperative need for thoughtful examination and potential modifications in addressing the current issues at hand.