Nigerians in Canada and other internationals students are at risk of deportation due to sweeping changes in the country’s immigration policies. With the newly introduced stringent measures, thousands of Nigerian students find their futures in Canada hanging in the balance......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
Shift in immigration policy
Canada’s recent decision to limit study permits and reduce permanent residency (PR) nominations has sparked nationwide protests.
These changes are part of broader efforts by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government to manage the increasing pressures of a housing crisis, rising unemployment, and overstretched public services.
For Nigerians in Canada, these policy shifts come as a significant blow. The north American country has long been a popular destination for international students, offering high-quality education, possibility of permanent residency and the answer to their greener pastures dream.
However, the landscape is shifting. In 2021, the Canadian government abolished the work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which was crucial for international students.
This was followed by a two-year cap on international student visas in 2022, and more recently, a 25% reduction in permanent residency nominations across provinces.
Ongoing nationwide protests
International students have responded with widespread protests across the country, rallying in provinces like Prince Edward Island (PEI), Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.
In PEI, hundreds of students have been protesting outside the legislative assembly for over three months, calling for the government to reconsider its immigration policies.
For Nigerian students, these protests are more than just a call for change—they are a desperate plea to secure their futures.
Many have invested significant time and money into their education in Canada, with the hope that it would lead to permanent residency and a better life. Now, they face the prospect of deportation when their work permits expire.
Reacting to the development, an Indian and former international student, Mehakdeep Singh, who invested his family’s life savings in his education in Canada described the decision as cruel and disappointing.
“I spent six years taking risks to come to Canada. I studied, worked, paid taxes, and earned enough CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) points, but the government has taken advantage of us,” Singh told City News Toronto.
His story echoes the experiences of many Nigerians in Canada who have worked hard and contributed to the Canadian economy, only to find themselves on the brink of deportation.
What’s next for Nigerian students?
These new policies is a setback for many Nigerians in Canada, who, oftentimes, only use the education route to secure permanent residency in the country. They’re now questioning whether Canada remains a viable option for their future plans.