New Delhi, November 10, 2024: Canada has officially ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS), a popular fast-track visa program that began in 2018 to expedite visa processing for post-secondary students from 14 countries, including India.
Moving forward, applications submitted after the cutoff will go through the standard processing stream, which could result in longer wait times. Indian students who submitted their applications by the November 8 deadline will still enjoy quicker processing. However, those applying after this date are likely to experience delays.
The SDS was favored for its faster approval times and fewer documentation requirements. Despite the cessation of the program, the regular student visa route continues to offer simplified documentation processes. The motivation behind this decision remains unclear, but experts warn that it might hinder Indian students’ plans to study in Canada.
The change might relate to broader immigration policy shifts amid ongoing diplomatic tensions. The Canadian government emphasized the need for program integrity and equitable access for all international students.
As discussions continue about managing immigration levels, students worry that these changes might contribute to a decrease in temporary residents in Canada. Some applicants may aim for easier qualification through less rigorous courses, potentially raising post-graduation unemployment levels.
Further complicating the landscape, recent reports indicate that Canada is preparing to reduce the number of permanent residents it admits in upcoming years. Despite these hurdles, experts like Piyush Kumar believe that the impact of the SDS’s end may be limited in duration, and students are encouraged to apply early, anticipating processing delays.
With the federal elections approaching in 2025, Prime Minister Trudeau has adjusted the study permit cap to 437,000 for the year ahead and instituted stricter criteria for visa eligibility, underscoring a shift towards a focus on quality over quantity in choosing international students.
Students are advised to explore educational opportunities in other countries as well, expanding their horizons beyond Canada to include nations like Germany, Ireland, and Singapore. Amid these changes, there’s a growing sentiment among current students that skills development is crucial for those considering studying abroad.