Canada has reported a dramatic increase in asylum claims filed by international students, with 13,660 claims made between January and September 2024, according to data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This represents a 14% increase from 2023 when nearly 12,000 students applied for asylum. The numbers show a staggering rise compared to the 1,810 claims recorded in 2018, raising concerns about misuse of the system and fraudulent activity.

Countries with the Most Asylum Claims

The majority of asylum claims this year came from students originating in:

• India
• Nigeria
• Ghana
• Guinea
• Democratic Republic of Congo

This trend has sparked debate about the integrity of Canada’s immigration system, especially as conditions in many of these countries have not significantly changed, suggesting external factors may be influencing the rise.

Concerns About Fraudulent Claims

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has attributed part of this surge to fraudulent practices by unethical immigration consultants. In a letter addressed to the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), Miller raised concerns about third parties advising students to misrepresent their cases.

“Canada is dedicated to aiding individuals in need of protection. However, counselling asylum seekers to misrepresent themselves… is contrary to the objectives of Canada’s immigration system,” wrote Miller.

The letter further highlighted that some consultants may be encouraging students to file asylum claims soon after arriving in Canada, sometimes under false pretenses, such as obtaining domestic tuition rates.

CICC’s Role and Accountability

The CICC, Canada’s regulatory body for immigration and citizenship consultants, has been called upon to investigate licensed consultants who may be advising students to file dubious asylum claims. Miller pointed out that such actions could violate Section 12 of the Code of Professional Conduct for CICC Licensees.

While CICC has made strides, including shutting down 3,000 websites operated by unauthorized practitioners, Miller emphasized the need for stricter oversight.

Impact on Canadian Colleges and Institutions

Colleges with the largest international student populations have seen the highest number of asylum claims. According to The Globe and Mail, the top institutions include:

• Conestoga College (520 claims)
• Seneca College (490 claims)
• Niagara College (410 claims)

Six of the top 10 colleges are in Ontario, a province with one of the highest concentrations of international students. While some university representatives expressed surprise at the numbers, others denied awareness of the issue.

Systemic Issues and Political Implications

The increase in asylum claims comes amid broader challenges in Canada’s immigration system, including a significant drop in study permits issued this year. The government has also flagged over 10,000 acceptance letters as potentially fraudulent.

These tighter measures followed a high-profile case where an Indian immigration consultant used fake acceptance letters to exploit thousands of students, many of whom are now facing deportation. Bronwyn May, director-general of IRCC’s International Students Branch, revealed that this verification process has intercepted thousands of such letters in the past year.

Canada’s Immigration System Under Scrutiny

Immigration has become a contentious issue in Canada as federal elections approach. Anti-immigration sentiments are rising, and the country’s once-welcoming reputation is being challenged. Critics, such as immigration lawyer Daljit Nirman, argue that the system is plagued by unregulated consultants and insufficient governance.

“The immigration system set up by IRCC is broken,” Nirman stated, questioning how a potential new government led by Pierre Poilievre might address these issues.

Conclusion

Canada’s immigration system is under increasing pressure, with asylum claims by international students reflecting a mix of genuine need and systemic exploitation. As Canada tightens its regulations and combats fraud, the focus remains on preserving the integrity of its immigration system while ensuring it continues to support those truly in need of protection.