New Delhi: Canada’s latest immigration regulations, which came into effect on January 31, are set to impact thousands of Indian students, workers, and visitors. The newly amended Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations grant border officials increased discretionary powers to reject or cancel temporary resident documents, including study and work permits, under specific conditions.
Under the new rules, Canadian immigration officers can now deny or revoke temporary resident visas (TRVs), electronic travel authorisations (eTAs), work permits, and student visas. Decisions can be made at any time if officials believe the applicant does not meet the necessary requirements or is unlikely to leave Canada after their authorised stay expires.
The regulations allow visa cancellations in cases such as:
- Providing false information, criminal records, or death of the applicant.
- The officer’s belief that the individual may not leave Canada after their visa expires.
- Administrative errors or lost, stolen, or destroyed documents.
- Transition from temporary to permanent residency.
- Denial of a work or study visa.
Indians form the largest group of international students and workers in Canada, with more than 4,27,000 Indian students currently enrolled in Canadian universities, according to the ministry of external affairs. Canada is also a preferred destination for Indian workers, and the new regulations could affect those on temporary work permits.
If a visa or permit is cancelled, individuals could be denied entry at Canadian borders or served with a notice to leave the country if they are already residing, studying, or working in Canada.
Financial impact of sudden visa cancellations
One of the biggest concerns for affected students and workers is the financial impact of sudden visa cancellations. Many have invested large sums into their education, housing, and living expenses. However, there is no official clarity from Canadian authorities on reimbursement or compensation for tuition fees, rent, or other financial commitments.
The implementation of these stricter immigration controls came after Canada closed the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa programme in late 2024. The SDS programme, a preferred route for Indian students, expedited visa processing for those able to demonstrate upfront financial guarantees, such as tuition payments and guaranteed investment certificates (GICs) for living expenses.
The latest changes are expected to lead to the cancellation of around 7,000 additional temporary visas, work permits, and study permits, an NDTV report mentioned.
