In a major policy overhaul, Canada has finally shut down this much-loved fast-track study visa programme, the Student Direct Stream (SDS). This of course is going to affect tens of thousands of international students mainly those coming from India who have in the past opted for fasttrack to get their study permits and pursue education in Canada.
The Student Direct Stream was initiated in 2018 by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The rationale of this revision was to streamline as well as accelerate the functionality of study permit for any intender from the targeted nations such as India, China as well as the Philippines. The SDS allowed students to get their study permits within 20 business days if they meet the requirements of the program, which most students use since it is much faster than the times that could take weeks or sometimes months.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) | Obtain a GIC of CAD 20,635 |
| Language Proficiency | Demonstrate proficiency in English or French through recognized language tests |
Reasons Behind the Policy Change
The SDS has been axed suddenly with increasing diplomatic strains between New Delhi and Ottawa especially after the circulation of some material related to the assassination of Khalistani militant Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Earlier, the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, signaled the bowdlerization of the immigration process for the acceptation of persons coming to the country for studies or work by saying that Canada would issue “35% fewer international student visas this year” and “less in the following year.”
Mentioning what they called “abuse” in the immigration system, the Canadian government has said in an official statement that reciprocal access for foreign students would be provided equally for whole system. The government wants to improve program quality and safeguard student’s interest as the field attracts increased attention.
Implications for Indian Students
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Indian Students Studying in Canada | Approximately 427,000 |
| Number of Indian Students Granted Study Permits through SDS in 2023 | Around 200,000 |
| Impact of SDS Termination | Longer waiting times and increased uncertainty for Indian applicants |
| Additional Requirements Under Regular Study Permit Stream |
|
| Potential Consequences of Shift from SDS to Regular Stream | May deter many students from pursuing studies in Canada |
Broader Implications for Immigration Policy
The exclusion of the SDS is not an isolated event in Canada’s immigration system. In March this year, Immigration Minister Marc Miller proposed a three-year plan to accept fewer permanent residents and temporary immigrants into Canada. Canada envisages to admit around 395 000 permanent residents by 2025, which will be more by a decrease of around 19% of the current figure. The policies of immigration control are not only change the situation of the international students but also impact the low skilled worker that many of the worker are from India. The new strategy has goals that point to a much lower number of temporary immigrants such as foreign workers and international students. By 2027 it plans to allow only 17,400 new Canadians of non-permanent residency, which is quite the opposite of its openness before.
Alternatives for Prospective Students
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Alternative Application Route | Regular Study Permit Stream |
| Expected Processing Time | Up to eight weeks or more |
| Application Complexity | More complex application process with potentially lower approval rates compared to SDS |
| Financial Requirements | Proof of financial support through GICs and other documentation requirements |
| Impact on Applicants | Represents a significant challenge for applicants previously relying on expedited processing under SDS |
Navigating Uncertain Waters
| Question | Details |
|---|---|
| Can a Canada visa be fast-tracked? | Uncertainty exists as the fast-track SDS program has been discontinued. |
| What is a fast track student visa in Canada? | Previously, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) was a fast-track program for student visas, primarily benefiting Indian students. |
| How long does a fast track visa take? | Under the former SDS program, processing times were expedited, but the regular study permit stream may now take up to eight weeks or more. |
| Is Canada giving student visas easily now? | The regular study permit process involves more complexity, potentially impacting approval rates compared to the SDS program. |
| Is Canada rejecting student visas in 2024? | There is concern about increased rejections as processing shifts to the regular study permit stream with more stringent requirements. |
| Is Canada closing student visas? | No, student visas remain open, but the removal of the SDS program may impact accessibility and processing times. |
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In summary, while Canada’s commitment to maintaining high standards in its immigration processes is commendable, it must balance these goals with accessibility for international students who significantly contribute to its educational ecosystem. As students adapt to these changes, they must remain informed and proactive in their application strategies to secure their futures in Canadian higher education.
