Canada's economy is dependent international student, which serve as a substantial source of income and job creation for Canada's middle class.

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) agency asserts that international education plays a pivotal role in the country’s future prosperity.

The economy, driven by international students, generates approximately USD 20-22 billion in revenue annually, encompassing tuition fees at public and private universities in Canada, taxes, and rental income.

Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller anticipates a historic high of 900,000 international students in the country this year, with the trend on an upward trajectory in recent years.

Indian students significantly contribute to this phenomenon. A 2020 report by Global Affairs Canada titled “Economic Impact of International Education in Canada” underscores this. The report states, “The total annual expenditures of international students, including their visiting families and friends, contributed $18.4 billion and $22.3 billion to economic activities in Canada in 2017 and 2018, respectively.

This translates into a $16.2 billion and $19.7 billion contribution to Canada’s GDP in 2017 and 2018, respectively.” In 2017, the intake supported 180,041 jobs in the Canadian economy, which increased to 218,577 jobs in 2018.

The report further highlights that students from India make the most substantial contributions. Since 2015, the number of Indian students moving to Canada on educational visas has multiplied.

In 2022, out of a total of 549,260 study permits issued to international students, 225,940 were granted to students from India. In 2023, educational visas for 1,75,021 Indian students have been approved so far, accounting for 40% of the total visa applications received for all international students.

Canada faces the challenge of a rapidly aging population, resulting in a shrinking workforce.

Amid tensions between India and Canada with many students not being able to go universities due to tension, and other housing issues in the country. Does it mean that the Canadian economy is in the path of a downward trend?