In last couple of months, Canada has seeing a sharp rise in asylum claims from international students, causing concern among government officials and the public. This increase has started conversations about the fairness of the immigration system and its impact on housing and social services
Alarming Trends of Asylum Claims by International Students in Canada
Recent data reveals that nearly 14,000 international students applied for asylum in Canada between January and September 2024. This marks a significant increase from approximately 12,000 claims in 2023 and represents a staggering 646% rise from just 1,810 claims recorded in 2018. (Source)
Immigration Minister Marc Miller has described this trend as “alarming,” suggesting that many students are exploiting the asylum system as a means to remain in Canada after their studies, often for less valid reasons.
Key Statistics: Asylum Claims by the Numbers
- Total Asylum Claims (2024): Approximately 14,000 claims from international students.
- Claims Breakdown:
- January to August 2024: 12,915 claims from study permit holders.
- Highest Monthly Claims: August 2024 saw 1,785 claims, the peak for the year.
- Historical Context: The number of claims has escalated from just 1,810 in 2018, highlighting a dramatic shift in recent years.
The top institutions reporting asylum claims include Conestoga College and Seneca College, with significant numbers coming from students primarily from countries like India, Nigeria, and Ghana. (IRCC Report)
| Year | Number of Asylum Claims | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 1,810 | Baseline year for comparison |
| 2019 | ~3,000 | Initial increase noted |
| 2020 | ~4,000 | Continued rise observed |
| 2021 | ~12,000 | Significant jump |
| 2022 | ~12,000 | Stabilization at high levels |
| 2023 | ~12,000 | Estimated total for the year |
| 2024 | 13,660 | Data up to September |
Potential Policy Reforms
In response to these alarming trends, there are calls for potential policy reforms to fix the misuse of the asylum system. Proposed measures include:
- Automatic Disqualification: Preventing students on study or work permits from filing asylum claims if their permits are expiring soon. (Read more about current asylum eligibility)
- Time-Limited Asylum Filing: Requiring asylum applications to be submitted within a short timeframe upon entering Canada.
- Enhanced Screening at Points of Entry (POEs): Deploying officers to verify the legitimacy of asylum claims before granting entry. (Canada Border Services Agency Information)
These reforms aim to reinforce the integrity of Canada’s immigration system while ensuring that genuine asylum seekers receive the protection they need.
Minister Miller’s Call for Accountability
Minister Marc Miller has emphasized the need for accountability within the immigration system. He has formally requested an investigation into licensed immigration consultants who may be advising students to misrepresent their situations to gain asylum status.
Miller highlighted that such actions undermine Canada’s commitment to assisting those genuinely in need of protection. He also pointed out that many students are being counseled by third parties to exploit loopholes that allow them to work while their claims are processed.
In Conclusion
The growing number of asylum claims from international students shows the impact of global issues and personal struggles. It also highlights the need for strong policies to support those in need while keeping Canada’s immigration system fair.
Further collaborations between the government, schools, and communities will be important to find solutions to these challenges.
