Overview of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program: The Canadian government has officially ended the popular Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program (Student Visas), which will significantly impact Indian students and those from 13 other countries. Launched in 2018, SDS was designed to expedite student visa processing for eligible post-secondary students from countries like India, China, and Pakistan. Here’s what students preparing for competitive exams need to know about this major development.
What Was the SDS Program?
- Launched: 2018
- Objective: Simplify and speed up the visa process for students meeting specific requirements.
- Countries Covered: India, China, Brazil, Pakistan, Vietnam, and more (14 in total).
- Processing Time: Study permits were processed within 20 working days, compared to up to 8 weeks for regular applications.
- Approval Rates: Over 70% for Indian students in 2023 under SDS, much higher than the regular route’s 10%.
Why Did Canada End the SDS Program?
- Concerns: The Canadian government cited reasons such as maintaining the integrity of the immigration process, protecting students from exploitation, and ensuring fair and equal access for all applicants.
- Policy Statement: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) emphasized the need to provide a positive academic experience for international students while ensuring a balanced and fair visa system.
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Impact on Indian Students
- Large Indian Presence: India is the largest source of foreign students in Canada, with approximately 4.27 lakh students in 2023.
- Widespread Use of SDS: An estimated 60% of the 4 lakh Indian students applying to study in Canada used the SDS program in 2023.
- Effect on Punjab: Visa consultants in areas like Kapurthala report that nearly all local students preferred the SDS route due to its speed and higher approval chances.
Canada’s New Policy Changes
The Canadian government has introduced several measures affecting international students:
- Cap on Study Permits: Starting in 2025, only 437,000 new study permits will be issued annually across all educational levels.
- Language and Academic Benchmarks: Stricter requirements for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
- Spouse Work Permits: Limited availability for international students’ spouses.
- Financial Proof: Higher financial requirements for visa applications.
- Multiple-Entry Visas: Reduced access to these visas, which were popular among international students.
Reasons Behind the Changes
Canada’s new policies aim to address:
- Housing and Service Pressure: An influx of international students has increased demands on housing and public services.
- Record Numbers: In 2023, Canada hosted a record 8 lakh study permit holders.
- Economic Considerations: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized cracking down on abuses of the system while maintaining immigration as an economic asset.
Key Takeaways for Students
- Transition to Regular Visa Route: Students will now have to apply through the standard visa process, which may take longer.
- Future Prospects: Aspiring students should stay updated on changes to Canada’s immigration policies and ensure they meet the new, stricter requirements.
- Impact on Studies and Careers: Students must plan their studies and work opportunities more strategically, given the tightened regulations.
This policy shift is critical for students preparing for competitive exams, as it may influence international education trends and migration patterns. Be sure to understand these developments to answer related questions accurately and stay informed about global education policies.
