Marc Miller Addresses Concerns Of International Students In Canada

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Last Updated On 14 November 2024, 9:16 AM EST (Toronto Time)

On November 12, the Canadian Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, in an insightful interview on immigration policies, addresses critical concerns of international students.

With protests intensifying among international students in cities across Canada, many are calling for work permit extensions to secure their future in the country.

Minister Miller provided a candid overview of the government’s stance on international student rights, the challenges within the immigration system, and the recent adjustments to immigration policies aimed at balancing economic growth with public welfare.

During the interview, Miller tackled pressing issues in the immigration landscape, from work permits for international students to the recent closure of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Canada’s handling of asylum claims.

Here’s a breakdown of the key points from Marc Miller’s interview:

Minister Miller highlighted that studying in Canada doesn’t automatically guarantee a pathway to permanent residency (PR).

“When people came in here and decided to be students, it wasn’t a guarantee to become a permanent resident,” Miller remarked, responding to the growing demands from international students for a streamlined route to PR.

This distinction underscores the importance of separating study permits from PR pathways, emphasizing that while international students have the right to protest being in a democratic country, Canada’s immigration policies prioritize maintaining an orderly and balanced system.

International students, many of whom are nearing the expiration of their postgraduate work permits (PGWPs), have been pressing the government for extensions.

Minister Miller acknowledged their concerns but made it clear that the government will not automatically grant extensions.

“Some students will have to make a difficult decision as to whether they leave the country or not,” Miller noted, highlighting the necessity of aligning work permits with Canada’s labour market needs.

The government has taken decisive measures to reduce the number of temporary residents, including international students, to manage population flows more effectively.

Miller stated, “We had to reduce permanent residency by a little over 20%,” pointing to the latest reductions in PR quotas as a way to stabilize the immigration system and ensure that it supports Canada’s economic and social structures.

While these changes have drawn mixed reactions, Miller noted the necessity of aligning Canadian immigration levels with long-term needs, which include addressing the nation’s aging population and labour shortages without placing undue strain on housing and public services.

The recent shutdown of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program has sparked concern among prospective international students, particularly from countries like India.

The SDS, which previously expedited study permits for eligible students, became less functional with recent policy changes, leading to its closure.

Miller stated that this decision helps Canada manage its international relationships and control the influx of study permits.

Miller also highlighted the geopolitical tensions as a factor in this decision, reflecting the government’s efforts to ensure that visa issuance aligns with Canada’s safety and diplomatic priorities.

Addressing a rising number of asylum claims, particularly from students, Miller emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of Canada’s refugee system.

He expressed concern that some international students may be misusing asylum claims as a last resort to remain in Canada.

“A number of these claims are not ethical,” he remarked, emphasizing that asylum is meant for those in genuine danger and should not be used as a workaround by those whose situations haven’t significantly changed in their home countries.

Responding to calls for a moratorium on immigration, Miller explained that halting immigration would have severe economic repercussions.

Canada’s aging population necessitates a continuous influx of young workers to sustain its tax base and support its healthcare system.

“A moratorium or an end to immigration for 3 years doesn’t make sense economically,” he asserted, underscoring the importance of balancing immigration inflows to sustain Canada’s economy.

Instead, the government opted for a moderated reduction of 20% in immigration levels, a move aimed at ensuring that new immigrants can integrate effectively into the workforce while supporting economic stability.

The Immigration Minister underscored the need for collaboration between federal, provincial, and educational institutions to create a more manageable and responsible immigration system.

Colleges, employers, and provinces must work together to ensure that Canada’s immigration system meets both the labour market demands and the socio-economic needs of local communities.

Miller emphasized that different provinces have unique needs, and his goal is to foster a system where these specific needs are addressed without compromising the overall immigration framework.

The evolving immigration policies and their impact on international students have led to questions about Canada’s long-term stance on attracting and retaining global talent.

Minister Miller’s comments highlight the government’s approach of prioritizing immigration flows that align with Canada’s economic needs while managing the pressures that come with high levels of immigration.

While the country continues to attract students globally, the recent policy changes indicate a move towards a more selective approach.

The closure of the SDS, combined with the stricter regulations surrounding work permits and PR eligibility, suggests that international students in Canada will need to carefully navigate the evolving immigration landscape.

Summary

Minister Miller’s interview has shed light on the government’s stance on the challenging issues surrounding international students, work permits, and the Canadian immigration policy at large.

While the government recognizes the importance of international students, it aims to uphold the integrity of its immigration system by ensuring that pathways to work permits and PR are in line with Canadian long-term interests.

As Canada’s immigration policies continue to evolve, international students will need to stay informed and explore their options within the framework provided.

Minister Miller’s statements reflect a balance between maintaining a Canadian welcoming stance on immigration and ensuring that the system remains sustainable, secure, and aligned with national interests.

Gagandeep Kaur Sekhon

Gagandeep Kaur Sekhon moved to Canada in 2010 on a study visa. She navigated through the ups and downs of her student life and gained her permanent residency in 2015. Today, she is a proud Canadian citizen residing in Calgary, Alberta. She is mother of 2 beautiful daughters and making her difference through writing and guidance at INC – Immigration News Canada.