Wed Sep 18 17:28:00 UTC 2024: ## Canada Tightens Immigration Rules, Limiting Study and Work Permits

**TORONTO** – In an effort to curb the number of temporary residents in the country, the Canadian government announced new restrictions on study and work permits for foreign nationals. The move comes amid growing public concern over the influx of temporary residents, particularly international students and foreign workers, and its potential impact on issues like housing affordability and cost of living.

The government plans to reduce the number of international study permits issued to 437,000 by 2025, down from 509,390 approved in 2023. Eligibility for work permits for spouses of some students and temporary foreign workers will also be tightened.

The government has also pledged to reduce the proportion of temporary residents to 5% of the total population, down from 6.8% in April.

These measures come on the heels of other recent changes to the immigration system, including a two-year cap on international students and restrictions on the temporary foreign worker program.

The move has been met with mixed reactions. While some argue that the influx of temporary residents has contributed to social and economic problems, immigrant advocates and economists contend that this is an oversimplification and that newcomers cannot be held responsible for complex economic issues.

This shift in policy signals a change in Canada’s approach to immigration, moving away from the previous focus on attracting large numbers of temporary residents. The government is now prioritizing strategies to address public concerns about the impact of immigration on housing, cost of living, and overall societal well-being.

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