Canadian Government Tightens Rules for International Students

The challenges faced by foreign students in Canada continue to grow as the government intensifies its scrutiny on international education. Recently, the Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sent emails to foreign students, asking them to submit critical documents such as their visas, study permits, academic records, grades, and attendance details. This move has left many students, particularly Indian nationals, concerned about their future in Canada.

According to reports from Times of India, even students with valid study permits and visas are being asked to resubmit their documentation. The sudden enforcement of stricter policies has sparked anxiety among international students, with many viewing this as part of Canada’s broader strategy to reduce the number of foreign students.

Documents and Information Requested

An Indian student in British Columbia shared their experience:
"I was surprised to receive an email from IRCC asking me to submit my documents again, even though my visa is valid until May 2026. Along with academic records, they also requested details of my attendance and part-time work."

Experts suggest these measures aim to ensure that students are genuinely pursuing education and not misusing their student visas for unauthorized work.

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Indians in Canada: A Historical Perspective

Indians have had a significant presence in Canada for over a century, contributing to its diverse cultural landscape.

• Early Migration:
  Major Kesar Sind, the first Sikh risaledar to travel to Canada, was part of a military contingent that accompanied Queen Victoria in 1897. By the early 20th century, around 5,000 Indians, primarily Sikhs, had settled in British Columbia.

• Policy Changes:
  In the 1960s, Canada’s Liberal Party government eased immigration rules for Sikhs, making it easier for them to settle. By 1970, the government stipulated that incoming Indians should carry at least $200.

• Present-Day Statistics:
  According to the Statistics Canada 2021 report:

  • Approximately 1.85 million (5.1% of the total population) of Canada’s residents are of Indian origin.
  • The Sikh community in Canada comprises 7.71 lakh individuals, making it the fourth-largest and fastest-growing community in the country.

Most Indians in Canada seek economic opportunities and a better quality of life. Canada’s low unemployment rate and supportive policies have historically attracted Indian immigrants.

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Canada’s International Student Landscape

Canada has become a popular destination for foreign students, particularly from India. The country is home to 4.2 lakh Indian students, making them the largest group of international students. However, the sudden enforcement of stricter policies, such as document re-verification, has created uncertainty.

In recent weeks, students from Punjab have reported receiving emails from the IRCC, asking them to visit offices for document verification. This has further heightened their anxiety.

Canada’s Efforts to Tighten Immigration Policies

Immigration consultant Mehboob Rajwani believes these steps are part of Canada’s efforts to manage the rising number of international students and address the misuse of student visas.

Canada aims to ensure that students remain focused on academics and follow the guidelines of their study permits. This includes limiting unauthorized part-time work.

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Recent Challenges for Indian Students

Adding to their concerns, the past week has witnessed three Indian students being murdered in separate incidents in Canada. These events have raised questions about the safety of Indian nationals. The Indian High Commission has taken up this issue with Canadian authorities, urging them to provide better security measures.