In 2023, Canada continued to see a surge in immigration, playing a crucial role in meeting the country’s demographic and workforce needs. It gave permanent residency to over 62,000 international students last year, an increase of almost 10,000 over 2022.
A significant portion of the newcomers who obtained permanent residency in 2023 were former international students who came to Canada on study visa. These students, after completing their programmes, had the chance to qualify for Canadian permanent residence (PR).
As of November 2023, data from the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) revealed that 62,410 international students (or graduates) successfully became permanent residents of Canada. This marked an increase of 9,670 from the previous year, as reported by CIC news.
Indians formed the largest group among those seeking permanent residency, even though the number of permits given to Indian students saw a 4% decline due to diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
CANADA PR THROUGH PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAMME
The majority of these students secured permanent residency by gaining work experience post-graduation, made possible by the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Additionally, 23,150 international students obtained PR directly after graduation through specific Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams for international graduates, according to Canadian government data.
Despite discussions about potential caps on international student arrivals amid a housing crisis, the numbers remained substantial. The IRCC data shows the continued growth, raising questions about the impact on housing affordability and living costs.
Canada’s demographic growth is significantly influenced by foreign students, non-permanent residents, and temporary foreign workers. Immigration Minister Marc Miller acknowledged the challenges and expressed the government’s consideration of reforms, including potential caps on non-permanent resident intake.
‘CAP ON TEMPORARY WORKERS CAN HIT CANADA’S ECONOMY’
However, concerns were raised about the economic repercussions of limiting the entry of temporary workers and foreign students. Desjardins Securities warned that such restrictions could hinder Canada’s economic recovery, potentially causing a 0.7% drop in real GDP in 2024 and slower growth over the following four years, according to Canadian Immigration.
Amidst these considerations, the Express Entry Program emerged as the fastest pathway for international students to transition to Canadian permanent residence.
Indians formed the largest group among those seeking permanent residency, even though the number of permits given to Indian students saw a 4% decline due to diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
As of 2023, approximately 330,000 new immigrants and students from India were living in Canada, contributing to the diverse and dynamic landscape of the country.