Facing a severe housing crisis, Canada is contemplating capping the number of international students, particularly amid concerns about institutions exploiting them.
Facing a severe housing crisis, Canada is contemplating capping the number of international students, particularly amid concerns about institutions exploiting them.
In a bid to address a mounting housing crisis, Canada is contemplating limiting the number of international students allowed into the country. Meanwhile, the nation is set to intensify its crackdown on educational institutions believed to be taking advantage of these students.
Sean Fraser, Canada’s Minister for Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities, highlighted the challenges in a statement. He indicated that it’s time to reevaluate arrangements when hearing unsettling accounts of exploitation involving international students by some establishments.
Fraser criticized certain institutions for operating mainly to extract profit from vulnerable overseas students, rather than delivering quality education designed for Canada’s future citizens and permanent residents.
An aspect of this debate also lies in the housing accommodations provided for these students. Institutions attracting record-high numbers of international students must bear some responsibility. They should be instrumental in providing housing solutions as the Canadian rental market continues to tighten, Fraser said.
The housing dilemma could also spell political trouble for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, with the ruling Liberal Party of Canada lagging behind the opposition Conservative Party in polls.
Statistics from Rentals.ca reveal that the inflow of students into Canada is exerting “further upward pressure” on rental prices. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment has climbed to CA$2,078 (US$1,533) as of July. Vancouver stands out with the most expensive rates, where a one-bedroom flat averages around CA$3,000 (US$2,213).
A notable trend is the significant presence of students from India. Of the roughly 800,000 international students in Canada, 226,000 study permits in 2022 went to Indian nationals. They made up a considerable portion of the 238,960 permits granted up to June, with 96,175 allotted to Indians.
Fraser – who served as the immigration minister until recently – shared that he is in discussions with his successor Marc Miller. Conversations revolve around distinguishing reputable private institutions genuinely committed to international students’ welfare from those seeking to exploit them.
