Canada discontinues Student Direct Stream visa program: How it impacts Indians
Among other countries from where the immigrant students could apply under the program were Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago and Vietnam.
The SDS program had higher approval rates and faster processing times. However, with the discontinuation of the initiative, these students will have to undergo lengthier visa processes.
“Canada is committed to giving all international students equal and fair access to the application process for study permits,” the government of Canada said on its website.
According to the Government of Canada website, the initiative is being discontinued to “strengthen program integrity, address student vulnerability and give all students equal and fair access to the application process, as well as a positive academic experience.”
Applications received before 2 pm ET on November 8 will be processed under the scheme, while all the applications submitted on or after this will be processed under the regular study permit stream.
The notice added, “This change will not adversely affect eligibility for those who wish to apply for a study permit from a country where the SDS has been offered.”
All students are required to meet Canada’s study permit application requirements to study in the country.
The dramatic policy change was announced against the backdrop of a number of economic issues, including a strained healthcare system, increased living costs and a housing crisis, among others.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
