Canada's updated visa rules could harm Indian workers, students

Canada's recent immigration policy changes are posing challenges for a significant number of international students and workers, particularly those from India.

Starting in February, new regulations empower Canadian border officials to alter the visa status of students, workers, and migrants, potentially affecting tens of thousands of foreign nationals.

Under the updated Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, officers can now deny or revoke temporary resident documents, such as electronic travel authorisations (eTAs) and temporary resident visas (TRVs).

This includes the ability to cancel work permits and student visas if they feel the individual may not leave Canada after their authorized stay.

These increased discretionary powers introduce an element of uncertainty, impacting a large contingent of international students and workers, with Indians being the largest group.

Canada remains a top destination for Indian nationals, with over 420,000 students currently enrolled in Canadian educational institutions.

Individuals affected by these policy changes could be turned back at the port of entry. If their permits are revoked while they are already in Canada, they will receive a notice to leave the country by a specified date. There is ambiguity around the financial implications for those whose visas are affected, including money paid for education or expenses like rent.

Tourism, another aspect of temporary residency, also sees substantial numbers from India, with over 360,000 travel visas issued to Indian nationals in the first half of 2024 alone. Canada's immigration authorities will notify affected individuals through email and their IRCC account.

These regulatory shifts follow the recent closure of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program in November 2024, which had previously provided Indian students with a streamlined pathway to Canadian education through upfront financial guarantees.