Canada Suspends Fast-Track Visa Program Amid Diplomatic Tensions
Amid rising tensions between India and Canada, the Canadian government has ended its Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. This move suspends a fast-track process for international study permits, which many students relied on.
Protests Across Provinces
Students in various Canadian provinces have protested, demanding relaxed immigration policies. These demonstrations reflect growing concerns about the changes in visa processing.
What Was the Student Direct Stream (SDS)?
The SDS, introduced in 2018 by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aimed to simplify the visa process. It was available to students from 14 countries, including India. Indian students, in particular, benefited from the quick and streamlined system.
The program required applicants to meet specific criteria. These included securing a Canadian Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth CAD 20,635 and providing English or French language test scores. Once approved, students received their permits within weeks instead of months.
Why Did Canada End the SDS?
The Canadian government has not clarified its reasons for halting the SDS. However, the decision comes amid strained relations with India. Canada recently accused Indian government agents of involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Officials have also cited a surge in international student applications, especially from India, as a strain on immigration systems.
Impact on Indian Students
India consistently sends the most students to Canada. In 2023 alone, nearly 200,000 Indian students received study permits. The end of the SDS means longer wait times for permits, creating hurdles for new applicants.
To avoid delays, students must now submit complete documentation early. Meeting all requirements on time will be crucial to securing study permits.
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