International students attend Canadian post-secondary institutions by using study visas with the hope of obtaining permanent residence (PR) there. The brutal truth is that this course is far from certain. Senators and immigration authorities have issued a cautionary note, exposing the incorrect advice given by education and immigration consultants.

Misleading Assurances by Consultants

These advisors frequently deceive foreign students into thinking that attending school in Canada entitles them to permanent residency. This problem is highlighted in the study "Strengthening the Integrity of Canada's International Student Programme," which warns that there are just not enough PR positions to handle the expanding number of international students.

The report urges Ottawa to continue its stringent admissions procedure, putting special emphasis on the need to accept only the most qualified foreign students. It also emphasises how crucial it is to stop school advisers from exaggerating how simple it is to get a work permit for Canada after graduation. 

If students follow such bad advice, they risk having their permits revoked because they attend non-designated learning institutions (DLIs) or sign up for ineligible courses. 

The report cautions that "international students who rely on agents are frequently unaware of such complexities and discover the bad news when it is too late."

Government Accountability

While consultants are somewhat to blame, the federal government is also accountable for encouraging exaggerated expectations. The report makes the point that, even as it promotes the advantages of studying in Canada, the government ought to be more open about the intense competition that exists in the permanent residence application process.

It's critical to address these challenges as the number of international students applying to Canadian universities rises, with forecasts showing that number will reach 1.4 million by 2027. 

According to a survey conducted in 2021, 73% of international students intended to apply for work permits after graduation and 59% wanted permanent residency. However, given the annual cap on admissions for permanent residents, not every student would be able to fulfil their dream of staying in Canada.

Senator Ratna Omidvar emphasises the federal government's responsibility for proactively informing international students about the terms of employment and immigration to Canada. She advises that in order to combat the false information spread by education consultants when visas are issued, they should be accompanied by informative letters.

FAQS

Is permanent residency a guarantee for students in Canada?

No, attending school in Canada does not provide you with a visa for life. Even if there are a few seats available for permanent residents, there is a competitive application process and it can be a pathway.

Why is it crucial for overseas students to attend designated learning institutions (DLIs)?

DLIs are organisations that the Canadian government has approved to host foreign students. Students who enrol in non-DLI institutions risk having their applications for post-graduation work permits denied.

Are there any caps on the number of international students allowed in Canada?

There is a cap on the total number of permanent residents that can be accepted annually, but there is none for temporary residents, which includes overseas students.