New Delhi [India], June 26 : The Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said that international student arrivals to Canada have dropped by nearly 60%, reflecting the government’s decision to reduce the temporary foreign population.
According to figures of the Canadian auditor general’s report on international student flows, cited by the BBC, Indian students made up 51.6% of all foreign students in Canada in 2023. However, their share has now fallen dramatically to around 8.1% of total international students.
The decline comes as Canada introduces stricter study permit measures and focuses on controlling rapid growth in temporary residents.
Indian Students and Professionals in Canada
India has been one of Canada’s largest sources of international students and skilled professionals.
In 2023, Indian students accounted for 51.6% of Canada’s international student population.
Their share has now reduced to 8.1%, marking a major shift in Canada’s foreign student landscape.
Indian nationals have also been a significant part of Canada’s professional workforce, especially in sectors such as technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, and skilled services.
The reduction in student arrivals may also impact future migration pathways, as many international students previously transitioned from Canadian education into work permits and permanent residency programs.
Canada’s Rules for Students
Several factors have contributed to the fall in international student arrivals. The Canadian government has taken a conscious decision to reduce the temporary foreign population in Canada.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) plans to issue 437,000 study permits in 2025, which is a 10% decrease from the 2024 cap.
The study permit allocation process has also been tightened. Students applying to IRCC now require an attestation letter from a province or territory along with their application.
The new measures aim to manage housing pressure, improve system integrity, and ensure that international education remains sustainable.
Impact on Canada’s Education Sector
Canadian colleges and universities that depended heavily on international enrolment may face financial challenges due to fewer overseas students. Experts believe institutions may need to diversify recruitment strategies and reduce dependence on a few major source countries.
The changing policies signal a new phase in Canada’s immigration approach, where student numbers are being managed more carefully while prioritising long-term economic needs.
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