marcus66502 said:
That's right. If they want work permits and PR then they're not genuine students. They're people who want to live here, same as any other foreign national.
The term is dual intent.
I am a student. I am a genuine student, earning genuine grades, doing genuine studies.
I am also a prospective immigrant. I would like to stay here. The fact that I would like to stay here does not mean I'm not a genuine student.
Canada gives preference to people who have a Canadian education. They want skilled foreign immigrants, people who have cultural experience. They want to attract talented people, and educating them in Canada helps establish ties, connections, and increase their long-term chances of success.
Being a student doesn't mean you're not someone who wants to immigrate. Wanting to immigrate doesn't make you not a student.
Countries will deny study permits to people who they feel won't leave upon completion of their studies. They look for strong ties to the home country, and some people are denied study permits even in Canada for lacking it.
I am (at the moment) a US citizen. I travel regularly, and my profession requires it. Being an illegal immigrant would destroy my chances of adopting here, or working. If they ask me to leave, I will leave.
People wanting to live here is not the problem, rather, people who are willing to stay illegally are. They do not have that risk with me, so there is no reason to punish me for following the rules and doing exactly what they want me to.
Many countries wouldn't even consider giving you any temporary entry if you actually indicate you plan to settle permanently. Cause that would show you're not a genuine non-immigrant, and hence don't qualify for temporary entry.
It's temporary if you leave when you are told to. They are concerned about the *risk* of overstay. People who apply, follow the rules, and leave if asked to aren't a risk - the government can always tell them "no".