Canada deports over 70,000 international students

As Canada prepares to make significant changes to its immigration system, thousands of international students protest new policies introduced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government.

City News Toronto reported on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, that approximately 70,000 international students took part in protests across various provinces in Canada.

Demonstrators notably gathered in regions such as Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia, reflecting widespread participation.

In 2021, the government discontinued the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program for international students, which impacted many students’ post-study work opportunities.

Last year, the Federal Government imposed a two-year limit on international student visas, reducing their stay duration.

In 2023, international students made up 37% of study visa holders in Canada, straining housing and services.

However, this increase has also intensified challenges related to unemployment, as well as the availability and access to essential resources.

The government anticipates a 35 percent drop in foreign student enrollment due to the visa cap.

In June, Canada announced foreign nationals can no longer apply for a post-graduation work permit at the border.

During protests, Naujawan Support Network (NSN) warned many graduates face deportation as work permits expire by year’s end.

NSN highlighted the potential for widespread consequences if the issue isn’t addressed and urged immediate action to support affected students.

The situation has become more challenging due to new provincial policies that have reduced permanent residency nominations by 25 percent.

“I spent six years taking risks to come to Canada. I studied, worked, paid taxes, and earned enough Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.

“The government has taken advantage of us,” Mehakdeep Singh, a former international student facing deportation, told City News Toronto.

Immigrant workers in Brampton have recently rallied to challenge claims that they are causing local housing and job crises.

About Canada

Canada is a country in North America known for its diverse landscapes, multicultural society, and high quality of life.

It’s the second-largest country in the world by land area, spanning from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and north to the Arctic Ocean.

Key facts about Canada:

• Capital: Ottawa
• Largest City: Toronto
• Official Languages: English and French
• Government: Constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy
• Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
• Population: Around 39 million people
• Climate: Ranges from temperate in the south to Arctic in the north. The climate can vary widely depending on the region.

Canada is known for its natural beauty, including national parks, forests, and vast lakes.

It also has a rich cultural heritage with strong influences from both its Indigenous peoples and its French and British colonial history.

The country is recognized for its welcoming attitude towards immigrants and its progressive social policies.

Reasons why international students face deportation in Canada

International students in Canada may face deportation for several reasons, including:

1. Violating Visa Conditions: This includes working more hours than allowed, not maintaining full-time student status, or failing to attend classes regularly.

2. Academic Issues:  If students don’t maintain satisfactory progress in their studies, they risk deportation due to poor academic performance or dropping out of school.

3. Misrepresentation or Fraud: Providing false information during the visa application process or using fake documents can result in deportation if discovered.

4. Criminal Activity: Committing a crime, even if minor, can lead to deportation, as Canada has strict laws regarding criminal behavior.

5. Overstaying Visa:  If a student stays in Canada after their visa expires without renewing it or applying for an extension, the authorities may deport them.

6. Health Issues: In rare cases, authorities might deport a student if their medical condition poses a public health risk.

7. Financial Problems: If a student cannot prove they have enough funds to support themselves during their studies, they could face deportation.

These reasons highlight the importance of understanding and adhering to the terms and conditions of a student visa in Canada.

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