Minister Sean Fraser has issued an important update regarding the 700 international students currently facing deportation from Canada

In a recent press release, the Honorable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC), provided an update on the distressing situation faced by approximately 700 international students from India who were unknowingly embroiled in a fraudulent scheme. The government’s response focuses on ensuring justice for the victims while upholding the integrity of Canada’s immigration programs. This blog post explores the key points highlighted in the Minister’s statement and emphasizes the government’s commitment to supporting legitimate international students.

Addressing the Victims of Fraud

Minister Fraser emphasizes that the well-being of those affected by unscrupulous actors is of paramount importance. To identify the victims of fraud, a dedicated taskforce comprising teams from the IRCC and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has been established. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to rectifying the situation and ensuring that justice is served.

Differentiating the Victims from the Culprits

IRCC and CBSA are carefully reviewing each individual case subject to a removal order to distinguish those who knowingly participated in the fraudulent scheme from those who were unaware of the consultant’s fraudulent activities. Students who were not aware or involved in the fraud will not face deportation as they do not deserve to be removed from Canada. Minister Fraser has instructed IRCC officers to issue Temporary Resident Permits to these individuals, allowing them to remain in Canada and avoid a 5-year ban due to misrepresentation.

Exploring Solutions for Permanent Residency

Acknowledging the unique circumstances of this case, the government is actively exploring solutions to provide affected students with a fair chance to apply for permanent residency. Senior IRCC and CBSA officials will assess each individual case separately, deviating from the ordinary permanent residency process. This approach aims to ensure that genuine students are not unfairly penalized for the fraudulent actions of others, allowing them to contribute positively to Canadian society.

Protecting the Integrity of Canada’s Immigration Programs

The statement affirms the government’s commitment to collaborating with Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), provinces and territories, and organizations representing Canada’s colleges and universities to enhance fraud detection and prevention measures. By upholding the integrity of Canada’s immigration programs, the government aims to safeguard the interests of both legitimate international students and the broader Canadian population.

Promoting Transparency and Responsibility

Minister Fraser underscores the importance of due diligence on the part of prospective international students. Applicants must conduct thorough research, secure an acceptance letter from a recognized DLI, and consult official government websites for accurate information on immigration programs. The statement urges individuals who have been deceived by unscrupulous consultants to come forward and report fraud, encouraging a collective effort to combat fraudulent activities.

Conclusion

The Canadian government’s response to the fraudulent scheme affecting approximately 700 international students from India demonstrates its commitment to justice, support, and upholding the integrity of immigration programs. By differentiating victims from culprits, offering Temporary Resident Permits, and exploring tailored permanent residency processes, the government seeks to rectify the situation and ensure that genuine students are not unfairly penalized. Furthermore, the collaboration with educational institutions and the call for responsible research by prospective students reflect the government’s dedication to transparency and the protection of all stakeholders involved. Canada continues to recognize the significant contributions of international students and remains steadfast in providing an honest and transparent path to those seeking to study and thrive in the country.

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