Canada Govt ends fast-track student visas for India, 13 other countries

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Last Updated12/11/2024

In a decision that will impact applicants from India — and at a time when diplomatic ties between the two countries are strained — Canada ended its popular, fast-track student visa programme with effect from Friday.

Canada has ended its fast-track student visa programme, the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which was widely popular among Indian students. This move comes amid rising diplomatic tensions between Canada and India, impacting thousands of Indian students who had benefited from the SDS programme's faster and more favorable visa processing.

Launch and Purpose: SDS was introduced in 2018 to expedite study permits for students from 14 countries, including India, with processing times as short as 20 days.
Eligibility and Approval Rates: The programme offered high approval rates, over 70% for Indian applicants in 2023, compared to as low as 10% in the regular visa route.

IRCC Statement: The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that ending SDS aims to provide “equal and fair access” to all international students. The goal is also to address student vulnerability and strengthen programme integrity.
Alternative Options: Students can still apply through the regular study permit route, with guaranteed investment certificates accepted as financial proof.

High Dependency on SDS: Approximately 60% of the 4 lakh Indian students who applied to study in Canada in 2023 used the SDS route. Many visa consultants, especially in regions like Punjab, relied heavily on SDS for student applications.

Capping Study Permits: Canada hosted a record 8 lakh study permit holders in 2022. For 2025, it has set a limit of 437,000 new study permits across all educational levels.
Policy Shift Announcements: In September 2023, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced plans to reduce student inflow to alleviate housing and service pressures. Permit approvals will be reduced by 35% this year and by another 10% next year.

Tightened Academic and Language Requirements: Students must meet stricter criteria to qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Changes in Spouse Permits and Financial Proof: Limited work permits for spouses of international students, along with heightened financial proof requirements.
Reduction in Multiple-Entry Visas: Canada will reduce the availability of these visas, which international students have often used for travel in and out of Canada during studies.