As the pursuit of higher education becomes more vital in today’s world, many students are considering studying abroad. Countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and the US are popular choices, especially among Indian students, due to their esteemed universities and promising job prospects. However, new stringent immigration policies in these countries are creating additional hurdles for international students.

Canada: New Rules Raise Concerns

Recent protests from Indian students in Canada highlight discontent over changes in immigration policies. Historically, Canada has been a favored destination for many international students, with institutions like the University of Toronto and McGill University ranked among the top in the world. However, the Canadian government has introduced several immigration regulations that could significantly affect students.


Key Policy Changes:

  • Increased Financial Requirements: Beginning January 1, 2024, international students must demonstrate a minimum of CAD 20,635 in their bank accounts, alongside their first-year tuition fees, to qualify for a study permit. This change addresses cost-of-living requirements that had remained stagnant since the early 2000s.


  • Limits on Work Hours: The temporary policy allowing students to work over 20 hours per week during term ended on April 30, 2024. Starting September 1, the cap will be set at 24 hours, a slight increase from the pre-pandemic limit but below the expected 30 hours.


  • Caps on Admissions: A new limit of 360,000 study permits will be imposed starting January 2024, a 35% reduction from the previous year. This includes a requirement for an attestation letter from provinces to validate applications.


  • Post-Graduate Work Permit Restrictions: International students enrolled in certain programs will lose eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) beginning September 1, 2024. This measure aims to curb misuse of the system related to “sham degrees” from less-regulated institutions.


Australia: New Enrollment Caps

Australia remains an attractive option for international students due to its high-quality education and supportive working conditions. The country boasts several universities ranked among the best globally. However, new immigration caps and visa application requirements may deter prospective students.


Recent Developments:

  • Enrollment Limitations: Australia plans to cap international student admissions to 270,000 for the year 2025. This decision aims to address the challenges posed by rising migration levels, which have strained housing and public services.


  • Visa Application Adjustments: Effective January 22, 2024, applicants must provide proof of genuine intent to study when applying for student visas. This includes restrictions for current visa holders, who must exit the country upon visa expiry unless they obtain new sponsorship.


The UK: Future Uncertainties for Graduates

The UK attracts many international students due to its prestigious universities, such as Imperial College London and the University of Oxford. The Graduate Route Visa, introduced in 2021, allows graduates to stay in the UK for two years (or three for PhD holders) after completing their studies. However, potential changes to this visa could pose significant challenges for international students.


Potential Changes:

  • Speculation on Visa Restrictions: Discussions surrounding limitations on the Graduate Route Visa, aiming to favor only the “best and brightest” students, have stirred controversy. Such measures could negatively impact many Indian students who benefit from this visa category.


  • Proposed Changes from the Migration Advisory Committee: Recommendations include prohibiting dependents from accompanying graduates and raising salary thresholds for visa sponsorship. These changes may complicate pathways for graduates aiming to transition into skilled worker visas.


As immigration policies evolve in Canada, Australia, and the UK, international students face mounting challenges. These changes not only complicate the application process but also raise concerns about access to educational opportunities. Stakeholders in higher education must advocate for policies that support international students and ensure a smooth transition into their respective countries.