The Canadian government is preparing to implement a national cap to decrease the influx of international students into the country. Immigration Minister Marc Miller stated during an interview with CTV’s Question Period that the government will need to convene with provincial governments to ensure that provinces which have not been effectively managing the situation rein in the numbers on a purely volumetric basis.

Miller expressed concern over the disconcerting volume of international students in Canada, describing the situation as one that has spiraled out of control. The PUNCH previously reported that Canada had raised its cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants, particularly for international students, to $20,000 from $10,000 starting from January 1, 2024.

In response to these developments, Miller acknowledged that the Canadian government has faced criticism for admitting an increasing number of immigrants, both permanent and temporary residents, amid a severe housing shortage in the country. Recent reporting by The Canadian Press, citing internal documents obtained through an access to information request, revealed that public servants had warned the government two years ago that its ambitious immigration targets could jeopardize housing affordability.

The Liberals have set targets to bring in 485,000 immigrants this year, and 500,000 in both 2025 and 2026. Temporary residents, predominantly comprising international students and migrant workers, are also a significant part of the equation, with over 300,000 of them arriving in Canada in just the third quarter of last year.

Miller indicated that he will be examining the possibility of setting a cap on international students in both the first and second quarters of this year to help alleviate the housing demand. When asked about the timing of considering a cap, Miller explained that there is a need to first address the numbers at a federal level before delving into the specifics of what individual academic institutions are doing in different provinces, potentially profiting from the influx of international students.

He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the system verifies the financial capability of individuals coming to Canada and authenticates offer letters. Miller also noted that a cap on international students would not be a one-size-fits-all solution to housing shortages across Canada, and that housing is just one aspect of the calculation when it comes to immigration targets. He stressed the need to consider the pressing requirement to lower the average age of the workforce.

While not providing specific details, Miller stated that a cap on international students is under consideration by the federal government and will continue to be evaluated. He mentioned that discussions about the reduction of these numbers will first take place around the negotiating table, taking into account the financial needs of academic institutions.

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