Increasing Visa Delays and Uncertainty Lead Thousands of International Students in Ontario to Defer Fall Semester

In January 2024, Ottawa introduced new restrictions on study permits, limiting the number of international students allowed into Canada. As a result, thousands of students at three major colleges in Ontario are deferring their fall semester due to these policy changes and extended visa delays.

 

Enrollment Decline Driven by Policy and Visa Delays

School officials across Ontario are reporting a significant drop in international student enrollment, with many citing the federal government’s tightening of study permit regulations. Glenn Vollebregt, President of St. Lawrence College, noted that nearly a third of their students had to defer their studies due to visa delays, calling the situation “not normal” and linking it directly to Ottawa’s policy decisions.

The Canadian government plans to cap the number of study permits issued, with further reductions expected. Immigration Minister Marc Miller recently hinted at a potential 10% cut in study permits, which could see 300,000 fewer permits granted over the coming years. By 2025-2026, the annual issuance is projected to drop to 437,000 study permits.

 

Impact on Canada’s Reputation and Education Sector

Vollebregt and other officials warn that the policy shift is damaging Canada’s reputation as a premier destination for education. Michael McDonald, Director of Government Relations for Colleges and Institutes Canada, expressed concern over the sharp decline in international student enrollment, which is essential for institutions that rely on foreign tuition fees. The federal government’s decision has created uncertainty for both schools and prospective students, further complicating recruitment efforts.

Despite these concerns, Ottawa defends the policy, arguing that managing the rapid growth of temporary residents is necessary. Michelle Carbert, a spokesperson for the Immigration Department, acknowledged the pressure that the influx of international students has placed on Canadian resources. She urged students to apply for visas early to avoid potential delays.

 

Colleges Experiencing Major Declines in Enrollment

Mohawk College is one of the hardest-hit institutions, with a 38% drop in foreign student enrollment compared to last year. Katie Burrows, the college’s vice-president for international students, highlighted the financial implications, including the underutilization of a new 300-bed student residence that currently houses only 60 students.

 

Visa Delays and Scrutiny Contribute to Deferrals

Immigration consultant Brian-Paul Welsh cited two major factors behind the deferrals: visa delays and the federal government’s more stringent review process. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has come under fire for not being strict enough with visa applications in the past, and this increased scrutiny is now contributing to processing delays.

 

In addition, the new requirement introduced in January 2024 mandates provinces to issue attestation letters for international students, without which they cannot apply for visas. Welsh noted that many students are hesitant to proceed with their applications, questioning whether the potential benefits of studying in Canada still outweigh the growing costs and uncertainty around permanent residency opportunities.

 

Conclusion

The recent policy changes are casting a shadow over Canada’s international education sector, with significant consequences for institutions and students alike. As visa delays and stricter regulations continue to take a toll, schools are facing declining enrollment, and students are rethinking their plans to study in Canada.

 

For more information on navigating the complexities of study permits and visa applications, visit our Resources and FAQs sections.

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