In an abrupt move, Canada has ended its popular Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program, ending the fast-track study permit process that has helped thousands of international students quickly secure visas.
The SDS program was launched to ease the visa application process for students from 14 countries including India, China and the Philippines, who met the requirements including a Canadian Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth $20, 635 CAD and English or French language test scores.
The program was launched in 2018 by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Under the program, the applicants could secure permits in a matter of weeks, while the standard processing time often extends to around eight weeks for Indian applicants.
The latest Justin Trudeau's government raised concerns over delays in visa processing and uncertainty for many international students from India. The government's decision is expected to have a severe impact on international students, especially Indians, with many opting to move to Canada for higher studies.
Why Canada ended its fast-track visa programme?
The latest move comes at a time of strained ties between India and Canada over the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Also, the Trudeau government was under immense pressure regarding the massive surge in applications from international students.
However, the Canadian government has not given the exact details behind its latest decision.
How it would impact Indian students?
Around 2 lakh Indian students received study permits in Canada in 2023. Also, Indian students have been a leading source of international students in Canada.
With the fast-track programme terminated, Indian applicants may now experience long waiting times for their study permits. It will now be mandatory to submit all detailed documentation requirements and submit their applications well in advance to prevent any potential delays.
Experts believe that the applicants will also have to face additional hurdles to getting the study permits.
