Canada Strengthens Visa Regulations: Study and Work Permits Under Scrutiny

Canada is tightening its immigration regulations, granting border officials enhanced authority to cancel study, work, and visitor visas. This significant change, effective January 31, 2025, raises concerns for thousands of international students and workers, especially those from India.

Key Changes: What Travelers Need to Know

Expanded Cancellation Powers

The new Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations empower border officials to revoke temporary resident documents. This includes Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTAs) and Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) under specific conditions. Such measures aim to streamline immigration processes but can lead to uncertainty for travelers.

Discontinuation of the Student Direct Stream (SDS)

In late 2024, Canada also discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. This program had expedited visa processing for students who could demonstrate financial resources upfront, such as tuition fees and Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs). The removal of SDS adds another layer of complexity for prospective students.

Expanded Authority to Cancel Visas and Permits

Under the revised regulations, Canada’s border officials now hold the power to cancel various temporary resident documents. These include:

• Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTAs)
• Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs)
• Study and Work Permits

This policy shift is particularly alarming for Indian nationals. Canada has become a leading destination for higher education. As of 2024, approximately 427,000 Indian students were studying in Canada. Furthermore, between January and July 2024, Canada issued 365,750 visitor visas to Indian applicants.

Reasons for Visa and Permit Cancellations

Visas and permits can now be revoked for several reasons, including:

• Providing false information during the application process
• Having a criminal record
• The individual’s passing
• Doubts regarding the traveler’s willingness to leave Canada upon visa expiry
• Lost, stolen, or destroyed documents
• Administrative errors
• Temporary residents obtaining permanent residency
• International students denied a visa renewal

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expects to cancel around 7,000 additional temporary resident visas, work permits, and study permits under these conditions.

Consequences of Visa or Permit Cancellation

• Port of Entry Rejection: If officials cancel a visa at the border, they will deny entry and send the individual back to their home country.
• In-Country Cancellation: If authorities revoke a permit while a person is in Canada, they will issue a notice requiring departure by a specified date.
• Notification: Affected individuals will receive notifications through their IRCC accounts or via email.

Staying Informed and Prepared

Travelers planning to visit, study, or work in Canada should take proactive steps:

• Regularly check their IRCC accounts and emails for updates.
• Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete.
• Maintain valid and up-to-date travel documents.
• Stay informed about the latest immigration regulations.

Conclusion

These stricter immigration policies reflect Canada’s evolving approach to temporary residency and visa compliance. International students and workers must remain vigilant about these changes to avoid disruptions in Canada. Staying informed and prepared will help ensure a smooth experience in this new regulatory landscape.