Canada is currently experiencing widespread protests following recent alterations to its federal immigration policies. Reports from City News Everywhere reveal that over 70,000 international student graduates could face deportation due to these changes. The adjustments, announced by the Justin Trudeau-led government, include stricter limits on study permits and changes to the extension provisions for graduates seeking employment in Canada.Indian Students Leading the ProtestThe majority of protesters are international students from India. Many have expressed frustration, stating that the new regulations have shattered their aspirations of securing a better life in Canada. According to representatives from the Naujawan Support Network, a student advocacy group, these graduates are at risk of deportation when their work permits expire at the end of the year.Thousands of these students had planned to apply for permanent residency after completing their studies. However, the recent policy changes have left them burdened with significant loans and uncertain futures.🔥🔥TEMP FOREIGN WORKERS PROTESTto stay in Canada, today in Winnipeg.Fulfill your promise pic.twitter.com/sntQ8NlG9e— Tablesalt 🇨🇦🇺🇸 (@Tablesalt13) August 26, 2024Critical Situation for International StudentsIn response to the new policies, a group of students has established encampments outside the legislative assembly in Prince Edward Island, protesting continuously for over three months. The students argue that the new provincial policies, which include a 25% reduction in permanent residency nominations, have left many unexpectedly at risk of deportation.Similar protests are unfolding in Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia. Mehakdeep Singh, a former international student facing deportation, shared his frustration: I spent the most crucial six years of my life taking many risks to come to Canada. Despite my efforts, the government has taken advantage of us. Singh, who invested his familys savings into his education, now faces the imminent expiration of his work permit with no guarantee of permanent residency.Canadas Immigration ChallengesCanada has seen a surge in international students, foreign workers, and other temporary residents on time-limited visas. While the Trudeau government has relied on immigration to stimulate economic growth and address labor shortages, it is now facing criticism for exacerbating housing shortages and straining provincial services such as education and healthcare.In a recent social media post, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a significant reduction in low-wage, temporary foreign workers, emphasizing the need to invest in Canadian workers and youth. “Were reducing the number of low-wage, temporary foreign workers in Canada. The labour market has changed. Now is the time for our businesses to invest in Canadian workers and youth,” Trudeau stated on X.In November of last year, the Trudeau government pledged to halt increases in immigration for permanent residents starting in 2026. Earlier this year, Canada introduced a two-year cap on the intake of foreign students and announced it would stop issuing work permits to some graduates in an effort to manage record levels of immigration.
