- Border officials can now deny or revoke student and work permits at their discretion.
- Over 4.2 lakh Indian students in Canada face uncertainty due to stricter policies.
- Financial reimbursements for affected individuals remain unclear.
Canada’s revised visa policy introduces sweeping changes, allowing border officers to reject or cancel student and work permits based on their discretion.
The closure of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program in November 2024 has already complicated visa approvals, and now, individuals may be denied entry or asked to leave Canada even after securing permits.
Canada’s Migration Crackdown: What It Means for Foreign Nationals
Canada’s new visa regulations grant border officials more power to deny or revoke temporary visas. Students and workers can now be stopped at the border or sent back if authorities suspect they may overstay. This move adds to the growing difficulties faced by Indian nationals seeking education or employment opportunities in the country.
The policy shift follows Canada’s decision to shut down the SDS program, which previously streamlined student visa applications. Without SDS, students must now undergo a longer, more complicated visa approval process. The situation is particularly alarming for those already residing in Canada, as sudden visa cancellations could disrupt their education or employment.
The potential loss of tuition fees, rental payments, and other financial commitments remains a major concern. There is no clear provision for refunds, leaving affected individuals at risk of significant financial losses. Those impacted by these new policies will receive official notices through their IRCC accounts, adding another layer of uncertainty.
With stricter visa rules and increased scrutiny at the border, Canada’s reputation as a welcoming destination for international students and workers is under question. These changes may lead many aspiring students and job seekers to explore alternative destinations with more predictable immigration policies.
Canada’s new visa policy has created significant challenges for foreign students and workers, particularly from India. As visa approvals become more uncertain, many may reconsider their plans to study or work in Canada, looking instead to countries with more stable immigration rules.
“Borders are not only lines on a map but also barriers to opportunity.”
