Canada’s latest measures to control migration are expected to significantly affect tens of thousands of foreign students, including many from India.
These changes will also impact individuals applying for work permits and residency.
The new regulations, effective from February, grant Canadian border officials broad powers to change the visa status of students, workers, and migrants at any time if they deem it necessary.
Increased Authority for Border Officials
Under the updated Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, border officials now have the authority to deny or cancel temporary resident documents, such as electronic travel authorizations (eTAs) and temporary resident visas (TRVs). This includes work permits and student visas.
Officials can reject an application or revoke a permit if they believe the individual will not leave Canada after their authorized stay.
This means even those already living, studying, or working in Canada could have their permits canceled and be required to leave.
The decision is entirely at the discretion of the border officers.
Uncertainty for Students and Workers
These new rules create uncertainty for tens or even hundreds of thousands of international students and workers. Indians are the largest group affected in both categories.
Canada is a top destination for Indian students, with over 4.2 lakh Indian nationals currently pursuing higher education there.
If a student’s or worker’s permit is revoked, they will either be denied entry at the port of arrival or be given a notice to leave Canada if they are already in the country.
Tourists from India, who also enter Canada on temporary permits, may face similar risks.
In the first six months of 2024, Canada issued over 3.6 lakh travel visas to Indians, with 3.4 lakh Indian tourists visiting during the same period in 2023.
Financial Concerns and Recent Changes
Affected individuals will receive notifications from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) via email and their IRCC accounts.
However, there is no clear policy regarding refunds for education fees, loans, mortgages, or rent already paid in case of a sudden permit cancellation.
Just three months ago, in November 2024, Canada had shut down the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program.
This program was popular among Indian students as it allowed them to secure education in Canada by paying a guaranteed amount upfront.
These new migration policies bring increased uncertainty for students, workers, and visitors, making it crucial for applicants to stay updated on the latest immigration rules.
