Canada is in for another shocker for migrants into its territory by its agenda to reduce its intake of temporary foreign workers, Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced.
By Emma Ogbuehi
Canada is in for another shocker for migrants into its territory by its agenda to reduce its intake of temporary foreign workers, Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced.
This strategy marks a significant shift from the nation’s previously expansive immigration policy.
The latest measure comes on the heels of the Canadian announcing stricter conditions for Nigerians, other nationalities wishing to migrate to their country.
In the policy which was unveiled in December last year, Canada increased the proof of funds for Nigerians and other international students from ₦8,025,000.00 ($10,000) to ₦16,050,000.0000 ($20,000).
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Marc Miller, Canadian Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, stated that the new requirement would take effect from January 1, 2024.
“Starting January 1, 2024, the cost-of-living financial requirement for study permit applicants will be raised so that international students are financially prepared for life in Canada.
“For 2024, a single applicant will need to show they have $20,635, representing 75% of LICO, in addition to their first year of tuition and travel costs.
“This change will apply to new study permit applications received on or after January 1, 2024,” the statement read in part.
For close to two decades, study permit applicants for international students have remained at $10,000.
This review, which takes effect from January 1, “will help prevent student vulnerability and exploitation,” the statement added.
In the latest policy announcement, Miller highlighted that Canada has witnessed a notable surge in the admission of temporary residents in recent years.
“Canada has witnessed a considerable increase in the volume of temporary residents recently,” Marc Miller said during a briefing.
While acknowledging the country’s reliance on temporary foreign workers to address labor shortages, Miller emphasised the necessity for improvements to enhance the system’s efficiency.