Mehakdeep Singh, an international student who relocated to Canada, currently faces challenges in securing permanent residency status. He was actively involved in immigration reform protests held in Brampton last year, voicing concerns about how immigration issues are often overlooked during federal election campaigns. Despite these challenges, Singh remains optimistic about the prospects of the new government in facilitating work permit extensions.
Singh advocates for the inclusion of international students and permanent residents in addressing Canada's burgeoning aging population. With a significant portion of the Canadian workforce approaching retirement, he contends that there will be an increasing demand for immigrants to fill these roles. “Skilled workers are retiring across Canada, including Ontario, so inland international students who have education and experience should be given the opportunity to participate in the economy by granting them permanent residency status,” Singh stated. Notably, he points out that approximately 25 percent of Canada’s current population comprises baby boomers who are reaching old age, emphasizing the necessity of a younger workforce for the country’s future.
According to Kanwar Sumit Singh, a regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, the scant attention given to immigration policies during elections stems from their lack of political advantage. Temporary residents, including international students, do not possess voting rights, leading political parties to deprioritize immigration issues in their campaigns. This results in a significant gap in dialogue surrounding immigration reform, despite its importance to the Canadian economy and society.
Immigration experts voice concerns that the current uncertainty surrounding immigration policies is prompting students and other immigrants to resort to questionable practices, such as purchasing Labour Market Impact Assessments and engaging in fraudulent asylum cases. This situation poses a serious risk not only to the integrity of Canada’s immigration system but also to the well-being of the individuals involved.
In contrast, Baljit Sikand, the director of the Sukhmani Heaven Organization, stresses the vital role international students and migrant workers play in Canada’s economy, particularly in the face of external challenges like trade wars. Sikand believes that these individuals contribute significantly to the country’s self-reliance and overall economic stability. He argues that immigration is a matter that resonates with all Canadians, linking it to broader issues of human rights and mental health. He urges all political parties to take responsibility for addressing immigration concerns and to develop comprehensive strategies that genuinely reflect the needs of Canada’s workforce.
As discussions surrounding immigration policies continue, the voices of advocates like Mehakdeep Singh and organizations represented by leaders like Baljit Sikand highlight the critical intersection of immigration with economic stability and societal well-being. The growing urgency for reform to secure opportunities for international students amidst an evolving economic landscape remains an essential topic for current and future governments.
