Grace Omachoko
In response to concerns over the escalating number of international students, the Canadian government is contemplating the implementation of a national cap.
Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller during an interview with CTV’s Question Period, stated that a meeting with provincial governments is essential to address the issue and ensure provinces regulate the intake of international students.
Miller expressed unease about the soaring volume of international students, describing the current system as “out of control.”
Recalled that, Canada recently increased the financial requirement for study permit applicants to $20,000 from $10,000 as of January 1, 2024.
Acknowledging criticism over the surge in immigration amidst a housing shortage, Miller emphasized the need to examine a potential cap on international students in the first and second quarters of this year.
He clarified that this measure wouldn’t be a uniform solution to housing shortages nationwide, noting that the government, facing ambitious immigration targets, aims to bring in 485,000 immigrants in 2024 and 500,000 in both 2025 and 2026.
Internal documents obtained through access to information requests revealed warnings from public servants two years ago about the impact of these targets on housing affordability.
Miller stressed the importance of a federal-level assessment before considering specific measures at academic institutions