Canada has introduced significant changes to its immigration regulations, giving border officials expanded authority to cancel study and work permits under specific conditions. The new Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, which came into effect on March 31, 2025, allow officials to revoke temporary resident documents, including electronic travel authorizations (eTAs) and temporary resident visas (TRVs).
These amendments could impact thousands of foreign nationals, particularly Indian students and workers, who form a large portion of Canada’s international residents. The suspension of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program last year had already introduced uncertainties, and this latest policy shift adds further challenges.
Key Provisions of the New Immigration Rules
The updated regulations grant immigration and border officers the ability to cancel eTAs, TRVs, work permits, and study permits under several circumstances, such as:
- Change in Eligibility: If a visa holder’s circumstances change, making them ineligible, their visa can be revoked. This includes cases of false information, criminal activity, or other inadmissibility factors.
- Failure to Prove Temporary Stay: If an officer is not convinced that an individual will leave Canada after their authorized stay, their visa may be canceled.
- Errors or Misuse: Documents issued due to an administrative error, lost, stolen, or destroyed visas, and cases where a temporary resident becomes a permanent resident may lead to cancellations.
- Student and Worker Impact: If a study or work visa is denied or an application is rejected after issuance, the permits can be canceled.
Impact on Indian Students and Workers
Indian nationals represent the largest group of international students in Canada. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), approximately 427,000 Indian students are currently studying in Canada. Additionally, many Indian professionals work in Canada under various visa categories.
The revised policies may result in the cancellation of an estimated 7,000 temporary resident visas, work permits, and study permits annually. Those affected could face:
- Study and Work Disruptions: Students and workers who lose their permits may be required to leave Canada immediately, leading to academic and career setbacks.
- Financial Losses: Tuition fees, housing expenses, and other costs incurred by affected students and workers may not be refundable.
- Uncertainty for Tourists: Canada issued 365,750 visitor visas to Indian nationals between January and July 2024. The possibility of unexpected cancellations adds a new layer of unpredictability for travelers.
Canada’s Stricter Immigration Policies in Recent Months
The recent amendments align with Canada’s broader strategy to tighten immigration control. In November 2024, the country suspended the SDS visa program, which had streamlined visa processing for students from India and other select countries. The SDS program required students to prepay tuition and provide financial proof through Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs). Its removal forced students to apply under the Regular Study Permit category, which involves longer processing times and additional financial requirements.
Now, with the power to revoke visas more easily, Canada has made its immigration policies even stricter. Students who face visa cancellations may struggle to transition to work permits after graduation, affecting their long-term career prospects in Canada.
What Can Affected Individuals Do?
For those at risk of visa cancellation, it is crucial to stay informed and prepared:
- Check Visa Status Regularly: Monitor updates through the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
- Ensure Compliance: Maintain accurate and truthful documentation and follow all visa regulations to avoid potential cancellations.
- Consult an Immigration Expert: If facing a visa revocation or rejection, seeking professional legal advice can help explore available options.
- Prepare for Alternatives: Students and workers should consider backup plans, including options in other countries or legal pathways to extend their stay.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.