90% Chance Your Canadian Visa Will Be Cancelled

Stricter IRCC policies for Indian students

90% Chance Your Canadian Visa Will Be Cancelled Indian students in Canada have reported receiving emails from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requesting the resubmission of essential documents such as study permits, visas, academic records, and even details about marks and attendance. The requests have sparked widespread concern, particularly among students holding visas valid for up to two years.

The IRCC’s tightened policies, aimed at managing the increasing influx of international students, include stricter financial requirements and discussions about potential caps on admissions. Avinash Kaushik, a postgraduate student from Hyderabad studying in Surrey, British Columbia, expressed surprise upon receiving the email. “My visa is valid until 2026, yet I’ve been asked to resubmit all my documents, including proof of attendance, academic marks, and part-time employment details,” he said.

A similar wave of emails was reported among students from Punjab, with some even being asked to visit IRCC offices for in-person verification. Avinash Dasari, a student from Hyderabad currently in Ontario, noted the confusion and anxiety these measures have caused among students.

Canada has seen a sharp rise in international student enrollments in recent years, with Indian students forming a significant proportion. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Canada hosts 4.2 lakh Indian students, the highest globally, followed by the United States with 3.3 lakh.

The sudden demand for documentation has left many students uncertain about their future. Manisha Patel, a business management student from Adilabad now studying in British Columbia, said, “We chose Canada for its welcoming environment, but this feels unfair.”

Experts have urged students to respond promptly to IRCC’s requests to avoid potential complications, such as visa cancellations. Mehbub Rajwani, an immigration consultant in Toronto, explained that the move appears to be part of Canada’s broader strategy to regulate international student numbers. He noted that some students shift to institutions with fewer attendance requirements to prioritize work, and the new measures might aim to identify genuine students.

Rajwani advised students to carefully follow the instructions in the emails to ensure compliance and avoid future issues.

Indian students in Canada have reported receiving emails from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requesting the resubmission of critical documents, including study permits, visas, academic records, and details such as marks and attendance. The unexpected requests have caused widespread concern among international students, many of whom hold valid visas for up to two years.

Stricter Regulations on International Students

90% Chance Your Canadian Visa Will Be Cancelled This development follows Canada’s recent policy changes aimed at managing the influx of international students. These measures include stricter financial requirements and discussions around potential caps on student admissions. Avinash Kaushik, a postgraduate student from Hyderabad studying in Surrey, British Columbia, expressed his surprise at receiving such an email. “My visa is valid until 2026, but I was still asked to resubmit all my documents, including proof of attendance, marks, and even information about my part-time job,” he said.

A similar surge in such emails was reported last week among students from Punjab, with some being required to visit IRCC offices in person to verify their credentials.

Rising Anxiety Among Students

90% Chance Your Canadian Visa Will Be Cancelled The sudden wave of document requests has left many students feeling anxious and uncertain about their future in Canada. “Many of us are confused and worried,” said Avinash Dasari, an undergraduate student from Hyderabad studying in Ontario. “This could lead to unnecessary delays or even rejections for those applying for jobs. We’re already under pressure with our studies and limited job opportunities, and this only adds to our stress.”

Canada currently hosts the largest number of Indian students globally, with 4.2 lakh enrolled, followed by the United States with 3.3 lakh, according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs.

Calls for Clarity and Support

90% Chance Your Canadian Visa Will Be Cancelled Manisha Patel, a business management student from Adilabad in British Columbia, shared her frustration. “We chose Canada for its welcoming environment, but this feels unfair. I’m already struggling to secure an internship, which is mandatory for my final year. It’s starting to feel like they don’t want us here anymore,” she said.

Experts have urged students to act promptly and comply with IRCC’s requests to avoid potential complications, such as visa cancellations. Immigration consultant Mehbub Rajwani suggested this move might be part of a larger strategy to regulate student numbers and filter out non-genuine applicants. He pointed out that some students transfer to institutions with less stringent attendance requirements to prioritize working in Canada.

“If students fail to respond to these emails on time, they could face visa cancellations or other issues,” Rajwani warned. “We advise students to stay calm, follow the instructions carefully, and address these requests promptly.”

Canada ends SDS, impacts Indian students

90% Chance Your Canadian Visa Will Be Cancelled Canada has officially ended the widely popular Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, a move that could significantly impact Indian students seeking to study there. The SDS program previously expedited study permit processing for students applying to Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) by requiring specific prerequisite documentation. However, as of November 8, all study permit applications are now processed through the standard procedures.

This change aligns with Canada’s broader plans to reduce study permit issuances, targeting a 10% decrease in 2025 compared to the 2024 goal of 485,000 permits. In 2025, the cap will be set at 437,000, with the intake limit stabilizing in 2026.

Expert Reactions to the SDS Termination

Marlene Olsavsky, Country Lead for the Duolingo English Test in Canada, noted that the shift to the regular study permit process offers students greater flexibility in fulfilling language requirements. Unlike SDS, which mandated tests like IELTS and PTE, students can now opt for more affordable alternatives like the Duolingo English Test (DET). This digital test, accepted by over 375 Canadian programs, including top institutions like the University of Toronto and McGill University, reduces costs and logistical challenges while maintaining accessibility for international students.

Saurabh Arora, CEO of University Living, views the SDS cancellation as a positive step toward ensuring only serious and committed students pursue education in Canada. However, he emphasized the need for careful monitoring of potential challenges, such as longer processing times, stricter financial proof requirements, and reduced work opportunities for spouses, to avoid negatively affecting genuine students. Emerging study destinations like Spain, Italy, and Malta, offering affordable visa options, may also gain traction among students seeking alternatives.

Aritra Ghosal, Founder of OneStep Global, acknowledged that the termination of SDS introduces uncertainties for Indian students, including extended visa processing times. While this may reflect Canada’s broader immigration adjustments or efforts to manage application volumes amid diplomatic tensions, he remains hopeful the changes will refine the system and urges students to stay informed while planning their studies.

Sachin Jain, Country Manager for ETS India & South Asia, emphasized that Canada remains a top study-abroad destination for Indian students due to its strong economy, world-class education system, and favorable post-study work opportunities. The removal of SDS could level the playing field for students who found its financial requirements challenging, though it might also extend visa processing timelines. He recommended including standardized tests like TOEFL in the general study visa guidelines to maintain fairness and ensure reliability in language assessment.

Broader Implications

Canada continues to attract a significant number of Indian students, with over 427,000 currently enrolled in its institutions. While the SDS program provided a fast-track option for eligible students, its removal may lead to delays and additional requirements. However, experts remain optimistic that Canada’s education system and long-term opportunities will uphold its status as a leading destination for international students.