Canada Considers Visa Cap for Students Amid Housing Crisis

According to Canada Housing News, Canada is considering capping the number of foreign student visas. The reason behind this is the rising housing prices and increasing international student numbers. This move is a strategy aimed at a bigger plan to solve the Canadian housing crisis.

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Canada is one of the top international student destinations.  As per recent Canada official news, there were 800,000 active visa holders in 2022. The significant driver of this growth is easily getting a work permit in Canada and the opportunity for post-graduation immigration. 

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According to Canada International Student News, an unexpected increase in international student numbers has had a major impact on the housing market. Moreover, this increase results in a high rental cost for student accommodation. According to statistics of  Canada, the average one-bedroom rent in July 2023 was CA$ 2,078, while the highest prices were CA$ 3,000 in Vancouver. Sean Fraser, Housing Minister, stated, "The government is considering capping the number of international students." However, it's important to note that no decision has been made yet.

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Canada International Student News also stated that many of these international students come from India. They come to Canada because of Canada's flexible education policies, job opportunities, and a large Punjabi community with political clout. In addition, the growing number of international students has also raised queries about taking advantage of this said situation. Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Sean Fraser addresses these institutions to "do more help to solve the Canada housing crisis" by providing housing for upcoming students, especially in the rental market.

The Canadian government is reforming its international student program to solve this situation. Canada's Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) intends to implement a Trusted institution framework by 2024. This framework will modernise the International student program run by the IRCC.

The main idea revolved around post-secondary institutes by certain standards showing their reliability as partners. The standards involve accepting students sustainably, confirming their reliability, and ensuring that they follow the rules and safety of international students.

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The Canadian government's decision to consider a cap on foreign student visas is evident. This shows the government's acknowledgement of the seriousness of the Canadian housing crisis. In addition, it's important to maintain Canada as an appealing international student destination. A deal has been made for international students' needs. The deal addresses the challenges of student housing that affect newcomers and existing residents. The Canada Trusted Institution Framework is another step in providing quality education to international students and providing a safe and supportive learning environment during their stay in Canada. 

Despite the ongoing housing crisis, Canada housing market offers some of the best PBSA options. Explore some of the best Canadian student housing on amber. With our focus on affordable accommodations, this can be just the boost students need to combat unfair living conditions as well as highly expensive housing options. 

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