Emmanuel OchayiIn a candid interview on CTV’s Question Period, Immigration Minister Marc Miller expressed concern over the “disconcerting volume” of international students in Canada, hinting at a potential cap.
The move follows the doubling of the cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants. Miller acknowledged criticism, stating, “It’s time for us to have a conversation about volumes and the impact on housing shortages.”
Citing internal documents, The Canadian Press revealed warnings from public servants two years ago about immigration targets jeopardizing housing affordability.
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With plans to welcome 485,000 immigrants in 2024 and 500,000 in 2025 and 2026, the government faces pressure to address housing shortages exacerbated by the influx of temporary residents.
Miller emphasized the need for a nuanced approach, indicating that a cap on international students won’t be a “one-size-fits-all solution.” Exploring the possibility of a cap in the first and second quarter of this year, he cited the importance of federal-level discussions before going into individual academic institutions’ roles.
Concerns about housing shortages were met with Miller’s assertion that immigration targets also address the pressing need to lower the workforce’s average age. While considering a cap, Miller highlighted ongoing discussions around reduction numbers, emphasizing collaboration with provinces and acknowledging the financial needs of academic institutions.
