Indian students studying in Canada have been left reeling after receiving emails from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requesting the resubmission of crucial documents, including study permits, visas, and educational records such as attendance and marksheets. This sudden request has caused widespread anxiety among international students, especially those with valid visas extending to 2026.
Avinash Kaushik, a postgraduate student from Hyderabad, while talking to TNN expressed his shock: “I was a bit surprised when I received the email. My visa is valid for two more years, yet I was asked to submit all my documents again, including proof of attendance and details of my part-time job.” Similar incidents have been reported across Canada, with students from Punjab particularly affected.
A Surge in International Student Enrolments
In recent years, Canada has seen an unprecedented rise in international student enrolment. Indian students make up a significant portion of this demographic, with over 420,000 currently enrolled in Canadian institutions. This influx has placed immense pressure on the country’s education and immigration systems, prompting IRCC to introduce stricter policies aimed at regulating student admissions.
New Regulations for International Students
Canada’s revised regulations for international students, effective from 2024, are comprehensive and far-reaching, aimed at streamlining the system while addressing critical challenges.
Study Permit Caps: One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a study permit cap. Starting in 2024, Canada will limit the number of new study permits to approximately 360,000 annually, marking a 35% reduction from previous years. This cap is temporary but will persist through 2025 and 2026, with a further 10% reduction each year. Notably, this includes master’s and doctoral students, groups that were previously exempt from such restrictions.
Provincial Attestation Requirement: The new rules also require a provincial attestation letter for all study permit applications from 22 January 2024 onwards. This measure ensures that provinces and territories can confirm their educational institutions have the capacity to accommodate incoming students.
Work Hour Limitations: In addition, work hour limitations have been introduced. International students are now allowed to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while their classes are in session. This rule intends to prioritise education over work, although students must secure approval for a new study permit if they wish to change their designated learning institution.
PGWP Changes: Another major shift involves changes to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) programme. Starting 1 November 2024, students applying for the PGWP must meet stricter criteria tied to Canada’s labour market demands. These changes will likely affect the employability and career progression of international students.
Suspension of SDS: Canada has also suspended the Student Direct Stream (SDS), an expedited visa processing programme popular among students from countries such as India and Pakistan. This suspension aims to ease the pressure on housing and public services, which have been significantly impacted by the surge in international student numbers.
Temporary Transfer Grace Period: To address immediate concerns, a temporary grace period will be implemented in 2025, allowing students who transfer to new institutions in January or May to begin attending their new schools while their study permit applications are being processed. This measure offers a transitional solution for students affected by the rapid implementation of the new regulations.
These policy shifts signal Canada’s attempt to manage its international student population more effectively, balancing the need for immigration control with the realities of a booming student demographic. However, they also pose new challenges for prospective and current students navigating the changing landscape.
What’s Driving the Policy Shift?
Canada’s move to tighten immigration policies is rooted in several concerns. The exponential growth in international student numbers has strained public infrastructure, particularly housing. Additionally, there is a growing perception that an influx of students is contributing to job market competition, particularly in entry-level roles often sought by students for part-time work.
Experts believe these measures are also aimed at addressing irregularities in the system. Some students reportedly transfer to institutions with fewer attendance requirements to prioritise work, potentially bypassing the intended purpose of study permits. “This appears to be a filtering mechanism to distinguish genuine students from those exploiting loopholes,” said Mehbub Rajwani, an immigration consultant based in Toronto.
Implications for Students
The new regulations have raised concerns among students, particularly those whose permits fall under the new caps or whose transfer plans may be delayed by increased documentation requirements. Many fear that failing to comply with IRCC’s demands could result in visa cancellations or future complications.
Manisha Patel, a business management student in British Columbia, told TNN, “We chose Canada for its inclusive policies, but this feels unfair. Clearer communication from IRCC would help us navigate these changes better.”
Broader Impacts on Canada and Beyond
The tightening of student visa policies could have significant implications for Canada’s economy and its education system. International students contribute billions annually to the Canadian economy, not just through tuition fees but also through spending on housing and other necessities. A potential decline in enrolments could impact smaller educational institutions reliant on international fees.
Moreover, countries such as India, which send the largest numbers of students abroad, may need to reconsider their strategies for supporting outbound students. Competing nations like the US and the UK could emerge as alternatives for students discouraged by Canada’s stricter policies.
The Way Forward
While these changes may bring greater order to Canada’s immigration system, they also highlight the need for a balanced approach. Clearer communication, timely updates, and transitional support for existing students are essential to avoid alienating a demographic that contributes significantly to Canada’s multicultural ethos and economy.
For now, students are urged to act promptly in response to IRCC’s requirements to ensure compliance and avoid disruptions in their academic journeys.