Indian students in Canadian province take to the streets over tightening immigration rules
Prince Edward Island (PEI), a significant protest is unfolding. A group of former and current international students, mostly from India, have taken to the streets, voicing their distress over a policy shift that jeopardizes their future prospects in the country.
According to reports, the controversy centers on the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), a lifeline for many international students aiming to secure permanent residency (PR) in Canada. Typically, Indian students enroll in institutions in provinces like Ontario or British Columbia. However, upon realizing the fierce competition for PR in these densely populated areas, many transfer to smaller, less populated provinces like PEI.
Do you meet the immigration criteria? Check here
These provinces, grappling with stagnant and aging populations, have historically relied on the PNP to attract temporary residents, thereby addressing labor shortages and sustaining population growth.
Recent Policy Changes
Recently, Canada has experienced an unprecedented surge in immigration. PEI, in particular, has seen more international students than its PNP could support. The provincial government has now decided to prioritize PR for individuals working in essential sectors such as healthcare, early childhood education, and construction. This new focus leaves many international students, who predominantly work in the food and retail industries, in a precarious position.
(Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)
Compounding their woes, the federal government's
