Tuesday’s federal budget proposes significant reductions in temporary residents allowed into Canada, including a sharp cut in international student permits. This move has raised concerns among Calgary’s post-secondary institutions, settlement agencies, and legal professionals about the uncertain future.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne stated the objective is to achieve “more sustainable levels” of immigration. The budget plans to reduce international student study permits to 155,000 in 2026, down from the earlier target of 305,900. This cap further tightens to 150,000 permits annually in 2027 and 2028.
The University of Calgary anticipates a further decline in foreign student enrolment due to these cuts. It reported an estimated loss of $34.7 million this year already attributed to lower international enrolment, following a $15.3 million revenue loss last year.
“We welcome the announcement that graduate students are not included in the government’s reduction, which will lessen the overall impact,” said a university spokesperson.
Naomie Bakana, president of the University of Calgary Students’ Union, expressed worry that the city might miss out on valuable global talent.
Cutbacks in immigration and international student permits threaten Calgary’s educational institutions financially and risk diminishing the city’s access to global expertise.