Canada ends Fast-Track visa scheme: What it means for Indian students?

Canada has announced the end of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) programs, which expedited study permit processing for international students, especially those from India. Introduced in 2018, the SDS allowed students from select countries, including India, to fast-track their study permit applications if they met specific requirements, such as securing a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) as proof of funds.

With the termination of these programs, Indian students will now apply through the regular study permit stream, which could lead to longer processing times. Canada is home to a significant number of international students, with Indian students making up the largest group. In fact, over 427,000 Indian students are currently enrolled in Canadian institutions, according to the Indian High Commission.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau explained that the changes were part of broader efforts to tighten immigration rules. He stated, “We’re going to have fewer temporary foreign workers in Canada. We’re bringing in stricter rules for companies to prove why they can’t hire Canadian workers first.” Rising diplomatic tensions and Canada’s slowing economy have also influenced this decision.

The goal of ending the SDS and NSE is to strengthen program integrity and ensure fairness for all international students, providing equal access to the application process.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) believes this change will reduce student vulnerability and ensure a positive academic journey for all applicants. However, the shift could lead to longer wait times for Indian students, as SDS had a notably higher approval rate compared to the regular study permit stream.

In 2023, 60% of Indian students used the SDS program, with over 70% of applicants receiving study permits. In contrast, those applying via the regular route had a significantly lower approval rate of just 10%.

Students who applied under SDS before the November 8, 2024 cut-off will still have their applications processed through the expedited route, but those applying afterward will follow the regular processing timeline.

This change could affect India’s dominance as a source of international students to Canada, leading some students to consider alternative destinations. Additionally, Canada’s new requirements for the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) program, which now includes proof of language proficiency, add another layer of complexity for future applicants.