What’s in Today’s Article?

• Introduction (About SDS Visa Policy)
• Recent Update on SDS Policy (Reasons for Discontinuation, Impact on Indian Students, etc.)

Introduction:

• The Canadian government recently discontinued the Study Direct Stream (SDS) visa program, a decision that significantly impacts Indian students, who represent one of the largest groups of international students in Canada.
• The SDS visa, introduced in 2018, was designed to simplify the visa application process for students from select countries, including India.
• With its removal in November 2024, Indian students now face longer processing times, higher fees, and a more complex visa application process.

What Was the SDS Visa?

• The SDS visa program provided several benefits for eligible international students:
  • Faster Processing: The program expedited study permit applications for students meeting specific criteria.
  • Reduced Fees: Application fees were lower compared to the standard study visa.
  • Simplified Documentation: Fewer supporting documents were required, making the process straightforward.
• In 2022, over 189,000 Indian students applied through the SDS program, with an approval rate of 63%, compared to just 19% for non-SDS applicants.

Why Was the SDS Visa Discontinued?

• The Canadian government cited several reasons for discontinuing the SDS program:
  • Abuse of the System: Concerns arose that some applicants used the program to take low-value diploma courses as a pathway to permanent residency.
  • Housing Crisis: The surge in international students strained Canada’s housing infrastructure, particularly in major cities.
  • Resource Constraints: The influx of students increased pressure on public services like healthcare and transportation.
  • Policy Shift: Canada is reassessing its immigration strategies to ensure fair access and program integrity.
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated, “We’re granting 35% fewer international student permits this year, and next year, that number is going down by another 10%.”

Impact on Indian Students:

• The discontinuation of the SDS visa poses several challenges for Indian students:
  • Longer Processing Times: Visa applications now take longer to process, disrupting academic plans.
  • Higher Fees: Standard visa applications incur higher costs, adding financial strain.
  • Complex Procedures: The regular visa process requires extensive documentation, such as proof of funds, language proficiency scores, and detailed study plans.
• These changes may lead to delays in admissions, increased financial burdens, and uncertainty about future immigration opportunities, particularly for students aiming to transition to permanent residency.

Options for Indian Students:

• Despite the discontinuation of the SDS visa, Indian students can still apply for the regular Student Visa. To improve chances of approval:
  • Plan Ahead: Start applications early to allow ample time for processing.
  • Prepare Thorough Documentation: Ensure all required documents, including proof of funds and admission letters, are submitted accurately.
  • Consult Experts: Seek guidance from immigration consultants to navigate the process.