Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program Cancelled

Canada recently ended its Student Direct Stream (SDS) program which provided faster visa and study permit processing for students from 14 countries including India. This program launched in 2018 allowed Indian students to receive permits in weeks instead of the usual months.

The cancellation of the SDS program comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tension between India and Canada. Now Canada plans to cap new study permits at 437000 for 2025 tightening requirements for the Post-Graduation Work Permit and limiting work permits for spouses.

These changes have raised concerns among Indian students who wish to study in Canada as they now face longer wait times and increased uncertainty. Experts are advising students to start the visa process earlier due to these adjustments.

Country's decision is to manage the number of international students due to housing and resource pressures. However the move may deepen diplomatic strains between the two countries as millions of Indian students’ plans are impacted.

In addition to Canada other countries have recently altered their visa policies affecting international students worldwide.