Ridership on Toronto's public transit systems struggled to rebound post-pandemic, but nearby suburbs like Brampton, Mississauga, and Waterloo Region saw rapid recovery and even overcrowding. This trend reversed sharply following the federal government's cap on international students in Ontario.
Cities report millions fewer rides. Brampton stated that federal policy changes in 2024 reduced immigration inflows, impacting transit demand and leading to a revenue shortfall. Mississauga experienced a 24 percent drop in student ridership and a 10 percent overall decline last year, directly attributed to the policy change.
Waterloo's Grand River Transit provided four million fewer rides in 2025 compared to the previous year, citing reductions in the local student population as the primary cause. The federal cap, implemented in January 2024 and later tightened, is also blamed by the Ontario government for financial difficulties at provincial colleges.
Transit officials in Mississauga acknowledge the policy's long-term impact, requiring adjustments to transit planning, potentially reducing routes serving campuses or student housing. Brampton plans to align service delivery with demand and long-term sustainability.
Despite the immediate financial hit, transit experts view this as a temporary challenge rather than an existential threat. Brampton's transit saw substantial growth prior to the international student boom. While the drop is significant and has financial consequences, experts urge cities to maintain service quality and adapt to new market needs as urban populations continue to grow and travel.
