The number of Indian students choosing Canadian universities over U.S. institutions has quadrupled since 2013, primarily due to Canada's more favorable immigration policies. These policies, designed to attract and retain talent, have resulted in a significant increase in Indian immigration to Canada.
However, recent diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, along with a temporary cap on international student permits in Canada, are expected to temporarily reduce the number of Indian students obtaining visas for Canadian universities. Despite these short-term challenges, unless there are changes to U.S. immigration policies, the long-term impact on Indian student choices may be minimal.
Canada's immigration policies, which include no annual limit on high-skilled temporary visas and quick processing times for visas, have made it an attractive destination for international students. In contrast, the United States has seen difficulties in obtaining H-1B temporary status and employment-based green cards, leading to a shift in preference among highly skilled foreign nationals, including Indian students.
The difference in immigration policies is evident in the numbers. Between 2013 and 2023, Indian immigration to Canada increased from 32,828 to 139,715, a 326% increase. Indian enrollment at Canadian universities also rose significantly, from 2,181 in 2000 to 128,928 in 2021, a 5,800% increase over two decades. Conversely, Indian enrollment at U.S. universities dropped by 13% between 2016 and 2019, while increasing by 182% at Canadian universities during the same period.
