Canada’s Policy Changes Take a Toll on International Students’ Mental Health
International students in Canada are grappling with growing mental health challenges as recent policy changes heighten stress and fuel public hostility towards them.
New rules, including tighter limits on study permits, stricter work permit eligibility, and increased financial demands, are causing widespread anxiety. A Turkish postgraduate student in Ontario described how international students are being unfairly blamed for issues like housing shortages and rising prices. “We’re constantly blamed for rent hikes and high costs,” he said.
While media narratives often blame international students for Canada’s housing crisis, a University of Waterloo study challenges this view, revealing that many students and their families face significant housing barriers.
Constant changes to regulations add further uncertainty. “Every week, new rules are announced. We don’t know what’s next,” said Christina Mathew, an Indian student at Humber College. She voiced concerns over the cost of living and job prospects, which are already worsened by rising rent and grocery prices.
Although the new cap on international student numbers will apply to the 2025/26 intake, the impact of current policies, including work-hour limitations and unpaid internships, is damaging students’ financial stability and mental health. “Finding jobs is becoming harder, and internships are often unpaid, creating more financial risks,” said Amanpreet Kaur, a student in British Columbia.
Racism and growing anti-immigration sentiment are also affecting students. “There’s subtle racism everywhere,” said Pakistani student Makkiya Khan, highlighting the isolation many international students feel.
Canada’s reputation as a top study destination may be at risk, with reports predicting a 50% drop in study permit applications by the end of 2024. Universities will need to balance addressing public concerns with supporting international students to restore confidence in Canada.
“Rebuilding trust will take time and effort,” noted Priyanka Roy, a senior recruitment advisor at the University of York.
