The recent development of Canada announcing its plan to restrict international students from moving into the country for two years makes me wonder how the country has magically solved the housing crisis. Who knew limiting access to education could be the key to unlocking prosperity?
Instead of planning and improving their infrastructure, they have chosen to decrease the number of students coming to Canada. Because who needs to fix infrastructure when you can just play hard to get it? It’s just like announcing, “Sorry, no space for you until we crack the code on room expansion.”
The country has been facing a housing crisis for the past two years. And, here’s their answer: a student quota system, where patience is not just a virtue, but a prerequisite.
Timing is crucial in every aspect of life, and education is no exception. If visa regulations are tightened or the number of visas reduced, it poses a significant threat to students’ education. It is pertinent to note here that the planning for one’s academic journey begins early, often from primary school. Failing to secure a spot in the initial quota not only jeopardises their right to education but also takes a toll on their mental well-being, especially considering the substantial financial investment made for studying in Canada.
Contrastingly, other countries benefiting from student visas display foresight by proactively addressing housing, healthcare, and other essentials. They avoid the pitfalls of inadequate planning or implementing arbitrary quotas, maintaining a more organised and supportive environment for international students.
Canada states that the measure was implemented to address housing crises and curb fraud, but what was truly needed was proper planning. Canada raised quite a few eyebrows last month by doubling the GIC amount from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,635. Now, this latest announcement has definitely left a bitter taste in the mouth.
Also Read: Double Deposit Dilemma: Can Canada’s Study Dream Survive a Financial Slap?
What’s at Stake for Canada?
Canada has long been a sought-after destination for thousands of international students who pay considerably more than their Canadian counterparts. Presently, the fees for international students are approximately five times higher than those for domestic students.
Preventing temporary workers and foreign students from entering Canada may have negative consequences on the country’s economic recovery and potentially worsen the ongoing recession. This is because these individuals often contribute to the economy by filling essential roles, participating in various sectors, and adding to the diversity of skills and perspectives. By closing doors to them, Canada might miss out on valuable contributions that could help stimulate economic growth and mitigate the impact of the recession.
Canada’s economy took a hit starting from July to September 2023, and it’s expected to stay down until April to June 2024. During this time, the total value of goods and services produced in the country is predicted to drop by 1.1% from its highest point to its lowest point.
Immigration Is Solution to Housing Woes
Immigration is a potential solution to housing issues rather than being the cause. Immigrants from new countries may be very important in solving the housing crisis. Through a friendly and integrated welcome, immigrants have the chance to help build much-needed homes. In particular, people with expertise in crafts like carpentry and plumbing might be very helpful in addressing the labour shortage in the construction sector. In essence, immigration can help address the housing crisis by bringing in individuals with highly sought-after talents from the building industry, provided that it is managed strategically. You can always discuss your thoughts on the issue with the study visa consultants in Gurugram.
Is It Sayonara to Student Dreams?
Canada has been a dream country for many students; however, with the recent announcement by Immigration Minister Marc Miller that there will be a 35% decrease in new education visas in 2024 as part of the cap, a pertinent question emerges: What should a student facing visa challenges for Canada do? Is it advisable to wait for the next year, hoping to secure a spot in the quota, or should they explore alternative study destinations?
