India has an answer to Canada’s SDS visa cancellation: What students need to know

The cancellation of Canada's SDS visa program, which expedited study permit applications for Indian students, was discussed in the Lok Sabha. The Indian government assured that the change would make the admission process more affordable by reducin...

By ET Online | Dec 03, 2024, 08.01 AM IST

The cancellation of Canada's SDS visa program, which expedited study permit applications for Indian students, was discussed in the Lok Sabha on Friday. However, the Indian government reassured the House that this change would make the admission process more affordable, especially for students who had struggled to meet the higher costs associated with the SDS requirements.

As per the SDS programme, which was launched in 2018, the Canadian government allowed eligible international students from India and many other countries to expedite their study permit application process. However, according to junior external affairs minister Kirti Vardhan Singh, the fast-tracking process involved meeting specific requirements like paying one year's tuition fee in advance, providing a mandatory Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth $20,635 as proof of funds, and meeting language proficiency levels.

ALSO READ: Students express concern as Canada ends fast-track SDS visa program

On November 8, 2024, Canada ended the SDS programme. "The Canadian govt conveyed that its objective in doing away with the SDS programme is in line with its efforts to strengthen the programme's integrity, address student vulnerability, and give all students equal and fair access to the application process, as well as a positive academic experience. Following the cancellation of the SDS scheme, all international students would now have to apply for 'regular study permits' for studying in Canada," said Singh, in response to a written question in the lower house of Parliament on the likely impact of Canada's move on Indian students.

ALSO READ: Canada closes its fast-track Student Direct Stream, effective immediately

"Under the regular route, students are no longer required to pay full one-year tuition fee upfront, but only for six months and demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their living expenses. This makes the admission process more affordable for students, particularly those who were previously unable to meet the more costly SDS requirements," he added.

ALSO READ: Is Canada cutting the number of visas issued to Indians? What MEA says

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, there are approximately 4,27,000 Indian students in Canadian colleges and universities. "All issues facing Indian students in Canada are regularly discussed and raised with Canadian authorities. Govt of India places high emphasis on the well-being of Indian students pursuing education in Canada," said the minister.
Moving to Canada? Know the difference between visas and permits
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Understanding the distinction between a visa and a permit is crucial for anyone planning to visit, work, or study in Canada, as these documents grant different privileges and entail distinct responsibilities.

Understanding the distinction between a visa and a permit is crucial for anyone planning to visit, work, or study in Canada, as these documents grant different privileges and entail distinct responsi..
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A visa, issued by the Government of Canada, serves the sole purpose of permitting entry into the country or transit through a Canadian airport. It is a physical sticker placed in your passport, containing essential details like your name, date of birth, and the purpose of your visit (worker, student, or visitor), along with issuance and expiry dates.

Importantly, a visa does not confer the right to work or study in Canada. Its primary function is to facilitate legal entry into the country. Even if labeled as a worker or student visa, it does not grant work or study authorization.

A visa, issued by the Government of Canada, serves the sole purpose of permitting entry into the country or transit through a Canadian airport. It is a physical sticker placed in your passport, conta..
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For individuals from countries requiring visas, obtaining one before arrival is mandatory, typically through the Canadian Embassy or Visa Application Center (VAC). Failure to possess a valid visa can lead to delays or denial of boarding for flights to Canada.

Should a visa expire after arrival, renewal applications can be made within Canada. However, departing without a valid visa means being barred from re-entry, even with a valid work or study permit.

For individuals from countries requiring visas, obtaining one before arrival is mandatory, typically through the Canadian Embassy or Visa Application Center (VAC). Failure to possess a valid visa can..
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On the other hand, a permit is a separate document specifying permissions and limitations regarding work or study activities within Canada, including any associated restrictions or conditions. Unlike a visa, a permit directly authorizes work or study and must be presented to employers or educational institutions.

However, a permit alone does not grant entry or re-entry into Canada – that is the role of the visa.

On the other hand, a permit is a separate document specifying permissions and limitations regarding work or study activities within Canada, including any associated restrictions or conditions. Unlike..
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To ensure a smooth arrival in Canada, individuals from visa-requiring countries must obtain both a visa and a permit beforehand. Adequate preparation, including completing application processes and gathering necessary documentation, is essential.

To ensure a smooth arrival in Canada, individuals from visa-requiring countries must obtain both a visa and a permit beforehand. Adequate preparation, including completing application processes and g..
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For travelers from non-visa requiring countries, such as the United States or the European Union, entry into Canada is possible without a visa. However, a work or study permit must still be obtained at the Canadian border or Port of Entry to engage in relevant activities within the country.

For travelers from non-visa requiring countries, such as the United States or the European Union, entry into Canada is possible without a visa. However, a work or study permit must still be obtained ..
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Visas and permits may have different expiry dates. While a valid permit allows staying in Canada beyond a visa's expiration, leaving without a valid visa renders re-entry impossible, posing challenges, particularly for students intending to return between terms or after completing studies.

Visas and permits may have different expiry dates. While a valid permit allows staying in Canada beyond a visa's expiration, leaving without a valid visa renders re-entry impossible, posing challenge..
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(With TOI inputs)