Synopsis: During Trudeau’s tenure, Canada became a top destination for Indian students due to simplified visa processes, post-graduation work opportunities, and a welcoming society. However, even before Trudeau’s resignation, the Canadian government started imposing stricter regulations, including reducing international student permits, requiring higher family incomes, and limiting student work hours. With the potential change in leadership to Conservative Pierre Poilievre, Indian students are concerned about further tightening of immigration policies, increased competition for part-time and post-graduation work, and overall uncertainty about their prospects in Canada. While Canada remains a top choice, students are advised to stay updated on policy changes, explore education financing options, and consider guidance from immigration consultants. Despite the shifts, Canada’s core values of diversity and opportunities for international students are expected to continue, though the path may require more planning and effort.
Indians have always considered Canada a land of dreams, offering world-class education and opportunities to shape a bright, global future. Over the years, the country has become a second home for many, thanks to the policies that helped international students to thrive. But with Justin Trudeau stepping down as Prime Minister on January 6 2025, there’s a growing sense of uncertainty: Will Canada be as welcoming for Indian students as before?
Let’s dive into what this political shift means for students in Canada and those dreaming of getting there.
Why Indian Students Chose Canada During Trudeau’s Era?
For Indian students, Justin Trudeau’s time as PM felt like a golden age. The number of Indian students studying in Canada soared from 31,920 in 2015 to a staggering 278,250 in 2023. This was contributed by the seamless policies, including:
- Simplified Visa Processes
- Post-Graduation Opportunities
- A Welcoming Society
For Indians, Canada has never been just an education destination—it was considered a land of possibilities where they could thrive and create a better future.
The Shifts That Started Before Trudeau Left
Even before Trudeau announced his resignation, the cracks in this perfect picture were beginning to show. In 2024, the Canadian government started imposing stricter regulations to tackle housing shortages and stretched public services.
Key changes included:
- A 35% reduction in permits to control the number of international students.
- Families needed to show higher income or savings to qualify.
- Reduced work hours for international students, making it almost impossible for them to support themselves.
These changes sent shockwaves through the entire international student community. Suddenly, what seemed like a second home started looking outré.
What Pierre Poilievre Could Bring to the Table?
With Trudeau stepping down, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has emerged as a potential successor. His views on immigration have raised eyebrows, especially among international students.
In a recent statement, Poilievre linked international students to Canada’s housing crisis and job market challenges, saying: “Housing is expensive, jobs are scarce, and public services are stretched thin. Adding more temporary workers and international students without addressing these issues will only make life harder for Canadians.”
If Poilievre takes over Canada, here’s what might change:
- Study permits could become a hard catch.
- Students might face tougher competition for part-time and post-graduation work opportunities.
- The chances of studying abroad for students from middle-income families could be straitened.
For Indian students, this could mean more hurdles in their race to a global future—whether they’re already in Canada or still planning their journey.
How Indian Students Are Feeling Right Now?
For those already in Canada, the mood is mixed. Students are concerned about the upcoming restrictions on work opportunities, which could enhance their financial hardships. Others worry that changes in post-graduation work permits could make it harder to secure a permanent residency (PR).
For students back in India, the dream of studying in Canada now feels like an even distant cry. With tightened regulations and ever-increasing costs, Indians are reconsidering their options or exploring alternatives like the UK, Australia, or Germany.
Tips to Navigate These Changes
Change can be challenging, but preparation makes all the difference. Here are some practical steps for students:
- Regularly check updates from Canada’s immigration authorities. Staying ahead of policy changes will help you plan better.
- With stricter financial requirements, start planning early. Education loans from trusted platforms like Lorien Finance can ease the burden.
- Immigration consultants and education advisors can guide you through the evolving processes.
- While Canada remains a top choice, other countries offer great education systems and welcoming policies for international students.
The Bigger Picture: Canada Still Values Diversity
Despite political shifts, Canada stands firm on it’s core values. It’s still a country that recognises the contributions of international students—economically, academically, and culturally.
Yes, policies may evolve to prioritise serious students and align with Canada’s infrastructure needs, but the essence of Canada as a land of opportunities remains. Indian students have played a huge role in shaping Canada’s present, and there’s every reason to believe they’ll continue to shape its future.
Final Thoughts
Political shifts are inevitable, but they’re also an opportunity to reflect, and rise above challenges. For Indians, studying in Canada may now require a bit more planning and effort, but the rewards remain worth it. So, while Trudeau’s resignation marks a turning point, it doesn’t have to be the end of your dream. With resilience and the right support, the dream of studying in Canada can still become a reality.
At Lorien Finance, we’re here to support you throughout your journey. Whether it’s financing your education or navigating the uncertainties, we’re committed to helping you achieve your dreams.
