The historic labor shortage in Canada has reached its peak this second quarter of 2022. Based on the job vacancies report, businesses are looking to fill 997,000 vacant positions ― the highest number of vacancies ever recorded in Canada.
Because of this grueling situation, employers are starting to offer higher salaries to attract more employees, while some are putting their hopes on international talent.
Work Restrictions on International Students
Currently, international students are only allowed up to 20 hours a week of work during term time. The workload increases on winter and summer holidays, wherein students are free to take in additional hours and earn more.
How International Students Can Benefit
For the government to address the extreme labor shortage, Canada’s Immigration Minister Sean Fraser temporarily lifted the 20-hour work restriction starting on November 15, 2022, until December 31, 2023. This policy applies to international students currently in Canada, including those who have already submitted an application and are expected to arrive in the country soon.
Canada is home to approximately 500,000 foreign students who are qualified to work more hours. This move will not only address the labor shortage but also help students gain more funds for tuition fees and living expenses.
Canada Student Visa Demand for 2022
The statement released by Fraser highlighted the difference in the number of student permit applications processed between January and August of 2021 vs 2022 in the same period. It was said that there was a notable 23% increase from last year’s figures.
The data shows that Canada remained to be a popular destination for international students despite the recent challenges the education industry faced. The country’s multiculturalism, inclusivity, robust economy, and clear immigration pathway for international students were some of the factors that made Canada a go-to country for further studies.
International Students Gaining Permanent Residence
International students are greatly attracted to the PR pathway offered through eligible programs. Thanks to the opportunities delivered by the IRCC, graduates can work for a maximum of three years via the Post-Graduate Work Permit and use their Canadian work experience to qualify for immigration.
This strategy has proven to be an effective approach, especially during the height of the pandemic. In 2021, Canada was able to welcome a record-breaking number of new immigrants all because of the presence of international graduates. And once again in 2022, Canada plans to rely on international students to grow its workforce and alleviate the labor shortage, which I believe is a win-win situation for both the country and foreign learners.
Planning to participate in Canada’s labor market? Inquire now and our trusted Fil-Global agents will gladly introduce you to the most in-demand and career-driven programs offered by today's top Canadian institutions.
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