This Canadian province is emerging as a popular destination for foreign students and it’s not Toronto or Vancouver

Toronto and Vancouver have always been the preferred destinations for international students in Canada. But, a recent report by a Quebec-based non-profit think tank, says that the Quebec’s temporary resident population included “1,17,745 foreign students, most of whom have the right to work here, and asylum seekers” in 2023.

The number of temporary workers in the province has nearly quadrupled in the last eight years. Quebec had 1,67,435 temporary work permit holders last year, almost four times as many as in 2015.

Quebec is the 5th best Canadian student city according to the latest QS rankings for 2024.


The province’s growth in temporary immigrants was primarily driven by two programs: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP), says CIC News quoting Quebec-based non-profit think tank.

According to this report, published by the Institut du Quebec (IDQ) last month, Quebec’s temporary resident population grew 46 per cent in 2023 and most of this growth was due to an influx of temporary workers.

The IDQ says that number of temporary foreign workers employed across the province was 43,770 in 2015. This represents an increase of more than 280 per cent over eight years.

As of February 15, 2024, the Government of Canada implemented changes to the post-graduation work permit program (PGWP). Students who have completed a master’s degree program, even under two years, will now qualify for a 3-year PGWP, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.

However, starting September 1, 2024, students enrolled in curriculum licensing agreement programs will no longer be eligible for a PGWP. In addition, the special measures for distance learning and PGWP validity have been extended until August 31, 2024.

Canada has one of the easiest immigration systems in the world. Along with a high standard of living and abundant job prospects, the country also has a welcoming attitude towards immigrants.