Action comes as hundreds of Indian students challenge post-graduate work permit refusals in Alberta
Canadian border officers have conducted immigration-status checks at a protest by Indian-origin international students in Calgary, drawing attention to the growing dispute over post-graduate work permits (PGWPs).
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers visited the weeks-long demonstration in Calgary on Wednesday, where students have been protesting against the refusal of their PGWP applications. The checks were confirmed by participants and local media.
According to people at the protest, around 10 to 12 participants were taken for a pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA), while the immigration status of several others was checked. Videos showing CBSA officers at the protest site were also circulated on social media.
The demonstrations, including a hunger strike, involve hundreds of international students from India in Calgary and Edmonton. The students say they were denied PGWPs after completing non-credit programmes linked to Portage College that did not lead to a certificate, diploma or degree. The refusals have left many participants uncertain about their future immigration status in Canada.
The latest action has added to concerns among the students, many of whom had expected their studies to provide a pathway to post-study employment in Canada
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said on Wednesday that student visas are temporary and argued that Canada’s immigration system must follow established rules. She said international students who come to Canada should complete their education and, where required, return home.
Prime Minister Mark Carney had also said previously that people without authorisation to remain in Canada would be subject to the relevant immigration process.
Canadian media reports indicate that decisions on PGWP applications are made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, rather than provincial authorities. The Calgary protests therefore remain focused on a federal immigration issue, even as they have drawn attention from Alberta’s government.
