MILTON - Jubin Thomas, a marketing specialist in Canada, is one of many former international students now facing an uncertain future after recent changes to the country's immigration system.
Thomas arrived in Canada as an international student, driven by ambition and a desire for a better life. During the pandemic, he worked in essential roles to support the economy, while pursuing his professional goals. But in mid-2023, things took an unexpected turn when the federal government introduced category-based immigration draws, prioritizing specific job sectors. Thomas's profession did not make the list.
“Despite being a strong candidate in the pool, I now find myself in a difficult position, unsure of what the future holds,” Thomas said. “Every day, I go to work with a deadline hanging over my head, wondering what’s next.”
Thomas emphasized that he respects Canada’s immigration process and acknowledges the privilege of working in the country. “I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here, but the recent changes have left many of us in limbo through no fault of our own,” he said.
Priya Patel moved to Canada with great ambition two years ago. She wanted to be an engineer and stay here for a better future and higher education. However, after the Canadian government announced it would cut the number of international student permits by 10 per cent in 2025—issuing 437,000 permits compared to 485,000 in 2024—she feels her career is in jeopardy.
"My father is a farmer. He sold his two acres of land to afford my study expenses," she said, tears rolling down her cheeks. "My family's dreams will also shatter if I have to go back to my native village in Indian Punjab. There is no university, college or even a better school," Priya shared. After a few words, her voice broke. "For many of us, studying in Canada was a pathway to permanent residency and a better future. Now, with these new restrictions, our dreams are slipping away."
In addition to reducing student permits, Ottawa has tightened the requirements for postgraduate work permits (PGWP) and hinted at changes to permanent residency numbers. These measures have left many international students feeling uncertain about their futures in Canada.
Carlos Mendez, a business diploma student from Mexico at Sheridan College, said, "The Canadian government could have announced this policy with effect from some future date. Those who arrived here should have been given a chance to work and apply for permanent residence. I don't think this policy will work anymore, with more voices coming from across the country against this discriminatory attitude towards international students."
Statistics Canada recently revealed that international students face unique housing challenges, with rates of unsuitable housing reaching as high as 63 per cent in some regions.
Thomas urged international students to closely examine immigration rules and carefully evaluate their circumstances. “Don’t assume that because it worked for someone else, it will work for you,” he advised.
“Each situation is unique, and if things don’t go as planned, it’s not the end of the world. There are plenty of opportunities outside Canada as well.”
He called on international students to follow legal paths and seek professional guidance when navigating the immigration system.
“This process hasn’t been easy, but I remain hopeful,” he said. “Canada has been a place of opportunity for me, and I’ll continue to face these challenges with resilience and determination.”
Lin Wei, an office administration student from China at Conestoga College, expressed deep concern over violations of her fundamental housing rights. "Students here are living in the worst conditions. We contribute to this country's economy through the high fees we pay to various colleges. You can't treat us like that," she said angrily. "We will react and take to the streets to safeguard our future, which now seems at stake."
Maria Silva, a student from Brazil at Sheridan College Oakville campus, spoke about the mental health impact, saying, "We're constantly dealing with new challenges — financially, academically, emotionally. These changes to study and work permits add to the pressure. Some of my friends are struggling with all the uncertainties, and it's hard to see a clear path forward."
Rami Abdullah, a recent graduate living in Milton, said, "If we are not given the post-graduation work permit, how can we even get a foot in the door here? Many of us wanted to gain work experience and contribute to Canada, but now it feels like the opportunities are disappearing."
Mariam Asare, a Ghanaian student, spoke bluntly about her frustration. "I would rather die than go back to Ghana," she said, expressing her distress over the changed immigration policies. "We left our countries and families behind, hoping to build something here. These changes make it feel like we're being shut out."
As Ottawa continues to adjust its immigration policies, many students are left grappling with an uncertain future, while remaining committed to their pursuit of a better life.
