20,000 Indian Students Failed To Show Up At Canadian Colleges Last Year: IRCC

IRCC released the data of the international students who were classified as “no-shows” at Canadian colleges last year, and Indians form the largest part of the group.

Study in Canada: According to IRCC data from March and April 2024, around 50,000 international students who received study permits to study in Canada were categorized as “no-shows” at the colleges and universities. Out of these, Indians constituted the largest part, around 20,000 were from India.

The Globe and Mail published the details, it says that the total number of foreign students recorded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has 6.9% of non-compliant students.

Mr. Lotin, founder of the consultancy firm Integrative Trade and Economics, said, "Most of the Indian students who were no-shows at their schools had likely not slipped over the border into the U.S. but were probably still in Canada, working and aiming to settle here. There was a record increase in the number of international students claiming asylum in Canada last year. Very small subset were going to the States. Most aspire to work and become permanent residents of Canada.”

“Canada has seen an increase in exploitation of its temporary resident visas, including students. What was once a low-risk temporary resident program is now being assessed as higher-risk given changes to the global migration context, including the growing number of conflicts and crises, increased abuse and fraud, and increased organized smuggling,” said Renée LeBlanc Proctor, spokesperson for Mr. Miller.

Canada Continues To Strengthen Border Security, Says Govt

The government said that together the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Public Safety, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have taken significant steps to minimize border volumes, reduce the number of those illegally crossing at the border, and non-genuine visitors.

“Border security is a top priority across the Government of Canada. The progress on the immigration integrity side complements enforcement action, as well as new detection and deterrence tools, and contingency plans should there be an increase in irregular migration at the border. Together with upcoming investments and activities across government, you see a very clear picture of strong border management and integrity,” said David J. McGuinty, Minister of Public Safety.

“We must preserve the integrity of our immigration system so it remains well-managed, sustainable and trusted by Canadians. By reducing non-genuine visitors, preventing illegal border crossings, and improving information-sharing with the United States, we are taking concrete steps to protect the safety of both sides of the border," added Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

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