As fall approaches many students from the UAE are preparing to embark on their academic journeys in Canada. However, the road to higher education in the Great White North has been anything but smooth this year. Visa delays, rejections, and changing trends in preferred study destinations are causing a ripple effect among UAE students.
With the Canadian government’s recent announcement to re-evaluate the cap on international student work permits, the landscape has shifted significantly. For 2024, the intake cap for overseas student permits is set at about 360,000, a sharp decrease from the approximately 560,000 issued last year. This reduction is driving many students to consider smaller provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan, where competition is less fierce compared to larger, more popular provinces like Ontario and British Columbia.
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A Competitive Landscape
Canada has seen unprecedented growth in its international student population, with a 30% increase in 2022 and a further 27% in 2023. According to education consultants, this surge in numbers has led to increased competition for study permits, particularly in the more sought-after provinces. Chafic Mekkaoui, an Education Consultant at Hale Education Group, notes that the upcoming year will see a 35% reduction in study permits, making it more challenging for students to secure their spot.
“With the cap based on each province’s population, we expect a rise in applicants to smaller provinces, offering a broader range of university choices,” says Mekkaoui. “However, competition will be fiercer for universities in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec.”
Changes to Work Permits
The new two-year cap rule introduces significant changes to the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) process. Graduates from Masters or short graduate-level programs can now apply for a three-year work permit, a change from the previous system where PGWP duration was tied to the length of the study program. This has led to increased caution among students who are meticulously planning their education paths, aiming to align with the new regulations.
Visa Delays and Rejections
Despite Canada’s appeal, some UAE students have faced setbacks. Amna Hashmi, a 29-year-old teacher in the UAE, was recently denied a visa for a Post-Graduate Certificate at Queen’s University. Despite submitting all required documents, her visa was rejected due to concerns about her intention to return to the UAE after her studies.
“I was keen on advancing my career, but my visa was rejected because they were concerned I might not return,” Hashmi shares. “It’s disappointing, especially since my husband has a stable career here, and my goal was to gain qualifications that would benefit me whether I stayed or returned.”
Success Stories Amidst Challenges
For some, the journey has been smoother. Hikmat Dardari, originally from Syria, successfully navigated the system, obtaining Permanent Residency through Canada’s Investor Program while completing his studies. Nathan Britto, another UAE student headed to the University of New Brunswick, received his visa in record time, despite concerns about the new regulations.
“For me, it was a smooth sail,” Britto says. “I got my visa in one month, while my friends are still waiting. I’m set to leave for Canada on August 13.”
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Planning Ahead
As Canada continues to refine its immigration policies, students from the UAE are advised to stay informed and plan meticulously. Despite the challenges, Canada remains a top destination for higher education, thanks to its world-class institutions, multicultural environment, and strong career prospects. However, with new regulations in place, students must approach their academic and career planning with even greater care.
Canada’s allure as a study destination remains strong, but the path to securing a place is becoming increasingly competitive. For those who are well-prepared and informed, the journey to academic and career success in Canada is still within reach.
