New immigration rules raise fears that northern B.C. will lose foreign students, workers [Video]

For years, international students have made up a large portion of the student body at the College of New Caledonia in Prince George, B.C.

But under Canada’s tightening immigration policies, many on campus are now questioning their decision to come north — and local businesses and community leaders are worried about a knock-on effect on the workforce.

Holiness Ozumba, who is from Nigeria, came to CNC last year to study social work. 

She quickly got involved with campus life, joining the student union’s board of directors and becoming the college’s representative with the B.C. Federation of Students. 

“I had so many options to go to so many places, but I chose Canada because I believe that Canada operates in the best interest of international immigrants,” Ozumba said.

But her future after graduation is now uncertain. 

On Nov. 1, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)  implemented changes to the post-graduation work permit program.

International students require a work permit after graduating. But now …