Increase in Visa Rejections: What’s Behind the Trend?
Canada has long been a favoured destination for travellers, students, and foreign workers. However, recent reports highlight a significant rise in the visa rejections of visitor visas, prompting concern among potential visitors and foreign workers. This increase has sparked discussions about the underlying causes and its broader implications for Canada’s immigration system and labour market.
Rising Visa Rejections Rates
In July 2024, Canada denied entry to 5,853 foreign travellers, including students, workers, and tourists. This figure is part of a broader trend where, on average, 3,727 foreign travellers were turned away each month during the first seven months of 2024, representing a 20% increase compared to the previous year. This uptick in rejections aligns with a trend of stricter immigration enforcement under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government, which is currently trailing in the polls ahead of a federal election expected next year.
Data indicates that, through the first seven months of 2024, border officers turned away an average of 3,727 foreign travellers per month, marking a 20% increase from the previous year. In addition to these rejections, July saw 285 visa holders deemed inadmissible—the highest monthly number since at least January 2019. The ratio of refused visitor visa applications to approved ones was higher in June 2024 than at any point since the pandemic’s peak, with more applications being refused than approved in January, February, May, and June 2024, according to immigration department data.
Government Response and Public Perception
Immigration Minister Marc Miller addressed these trends in August, emphasising that Canadians want an immigration system that is under control. A spokesperson for Miller highlighted that the immigration department is committed to a fair and non-discriminatory application of policies and procedures. The decline in study permit approvals has been attributed to a cap introduced in January 2024, although this decrease seems to have started earlier.
Concerns about increased scrutiny of visa holders have been voiced by lawyers. British Columbia lawyer Will Tao reported representing several visa holders who faced questioning about their plans in Canada. Some were advised by border officials to turn back voluntarily or risk deportation, potentially affecting their visa or travel authorization. Tao attributes this increased scepticism to a significant shift in the government’s approach to immigration.
Surge in Indian Immigration and Student Enrollment in Canada
Between 2013 and 2023, the number of Indians immigrating to Canada surged from 32,828 to 139,715, reflecting a 326% increase, according to the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP). This rise is indicative of a growing trend where highly skilled foreign nationals, including international students, are choosing Canada over the United States. The NFAP notes that obtaining H-1B visas or permanent residency in the U.S. has become increasingly challenging, whereas Canada offers more accessible options for temporary work and permanent residency.
Indian enrollment in Canadian universities has skyrocketed by over 5,800% in the past two decades, rising from 2,181 students in 2000 to 128,928 in 2021. This increase represents 126,747 additional students. In contrast, enrollment of Indian international students in U.S. universities fell by 13% between 2016 and 2019, while it increased by 182% at Canadian institutions.
Overall, international student enrollment at Canadian universities grew from 62,223 in 2000 to 400,521 in 2021, a 544% increase. In comparison, international student enrollment in U.S. universities increased by 45% during the same period. Despite these growth trends, recent diplomatic tensions between India and Canada have led to a short-term decline in Indian student visa approvals.
Conclusion
The rise in visa rejections and the broader trends in international student enrollment highlight significant shifts in Canada’s immigration landscape. While stricter enforcement and increased scrutiny are affecting foreign travelers and students, Canada remains a top destination for skilled immigrants, particularly from India. The current challenges underscore the need for ongoing adjustments in immigration policies to balance security with accessibility, ensuring that Canada continues to attract global talent while managing its immigration system effectively.
