Canada is experiencing an unprecedented surge in asylum claims from international students. Over 20,245 students sought asylum last year – nearly double the 2023 figure and six times higher than in 2019. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, 5,500 claims were filed, a 22% increase from the same period in 2024. This spike is primarily driven by students from conflict-ridden countries who initially came on study permits but found themselves with limited legal pathways to remain. As Ottawa tightens immigration policies, including cutting study permits by 40% and imposing stricter work rights, many students now face a difficult choice: return to unstable home countries or seek asylum in Canada. Meanwhile, the Immigration and Refugee Board is struggling with a backlog of 281,000 cases, leaving many students in limbo as they await decisions on their futures.
Canada is facing a growing surge in asylum claims from international students
