Canada Ends Fast-Track Study Visa Program: Indian Students Face Longer Waits, 8 Weeks Instead of 20 Days for Visa Processing

There is tension between India and Canada, during which Canada has ended its fast-track study visa program for international students, known as the Student Direct Stream (SDS). This decision will have a significant impact on students from many countries, including India. Under the Student Direct Stream, students could receive study visas in a very short period. According to the Indian High Commission, India is the largest source country for foreign students. An estimated 427,000 Indian students are currently studying in Canada.

It is worth noting that under the SDS program, Indian students’ applications were processed in just 20 days, but now the processing time could extend up to 8 weeks.

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) was launched in 2018 for eligible post-secondary students to help them obtain visas quickly. The program opened opportunities for students from India, Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.

IRCC’s Statement on Ending Fast-Track Study Visa Program

At the same time, in a statement from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), it was mentioned that they are committed to providing all international students with equal and fair opportunities in the study visa application process. 

The statement also emphasized that Canada’s goal is to strengthen the integrity of the fast-track study visa program while ensuring equality for all students in the application process.

What Justin Trudeau Said About Reducing International Student Visas

Earlier in September, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on X that this year they are issuing 35% fewer international student visas, and next year, the number will be reduced by an additional 10%. 

He stated that while immigration is beneficial for the economy, actions are being taken when individuals abuse the system and take advantage of students. Trudeau also mentioned that they are considering reducing the number of temporary residents in Canada.

Students Can Apply Through Regular Study Permit Stream

The IRCC set a cut-off time of 2:30 AM Indian Standard Time on Saturday night, stating that all previously received SDS applications would be processed. However, the IRCC also mentioned that potential students can still apply through the regular study permit stream.

Canada Reducing the Number of International Students

According to a report from Moving2Canada.com, 2024 is proving to be a turbulent year for prospective students wishing to study in Canada, as the number of international students applying for admission is decreasing annually. 

The portal mentioned that under the SDS program, Indian students’ applications were processed in just 20 days, but now the processing time could extend up to 8 weeks.