In a dramatic turn of events, tens of thousands of international students in Canada are grappling with an uncertain future as recent policy changes have drastically altered their path to permanent residency. The Canadian government’s abrupt shift in immigration priorities, focusing now on French speakers and specific job sectors, has left many long-term students without viable options to stay in the country. Experts estimate that between 70,000 to 131,000 Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders may be forced to leave Canada in 2024 and 2025, as their visas expire without a clear route to permanent status. This policy reversal has been criticized as a major and inhumane failure, leaving many feelings betrayed after years of investment in Canadian education and work experience.
