A growing number of international students are claiming asylum in Canada, using the student visa program as a backdoor entry into the country. Immigration Minister Marc Miller expressed concern about this trend, stating that many students are exploiting the system to lower their tuition fees. Universities and colleges are urged to improve their screening and monitoring practices to prevent bad actors from taking advantage of the program. The government is considering further reforms to address the issue, as well as reducing the number of international student permits issued next year by about 10 percent.
The high cost of tuition for international students in Canada is a factor driving some to seek asylum in order to pay lower fees. Statistics Canada data shows that international graduate students paid over $23,000 last year, while undergraduate students paid over $40,000 annually. The government’s aim to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada is part of broader efforts to address population growth and strains on housing and public services. Miller emphasized the importance of the student visa program for achieving international excellence, rather than serving as a means for easy entry into the country.
Recent incidents involving alleged terrorist plots by international students, such as Muhammad Shahzeb Khan and the Eldidi family, have raised concerns about Canada’s security screening systems. The government is conducting internal reviews to identify any deficiencies in the current processes and determine if there are systemic issues that need to be addressed. Miller acknowledged that more needs to be done to improve security measures and prevent individuals with malicious intent from entering the country. Collaboration with neighboring countries, such as the U.S. and Mexico, is also essential to enhance border security and thwart potential threats.
Universities have reported a significant decrease in international student enrollment this year, which far exceeded the caps imposed by the government. Miller called on educational institutions to play their part in enhancing recruiting and admitting practices to ensure the integrity of the student visa program. Detecting fraud at the outset is crucial in preventing individuals from abusing the system for their personal gain. The minister stressed the importance of continuous efforts to evolve the security apparatus to adapt to changing threats and ensure the safety of Canadians.
While Miller expressed confidence in the current security screening processes, he acknowledged that there is room for improvement. The government’s focus is on constantly evolving security measures to stay ahead of potential threats to the country. A review of recent incidents involving alleged terrorists entering Canada will help identify any shortcomings and guide future reforms to strengthen border security. Collaboration with international partners is crucial in addressing security challenges and preventing individuals with malicious intentions from entering the country.
In conclusion, the issue of international students abusing the asylum system to stay in Canada is a growing concern that requires immediate attention. The government is working on reforms to address this issue and improve security screening processes. Collaboration with educational institutions and international partners is vital in safeguarding the integrity of the student visa program and enhancing border security. Efforts are ongoing to identify and address any deficiencies in the system to ensure the safety and security of Canadians.
