Ottawa, Canada: Canada’s latest immigration restrictions are set to impact tens of thousands of foreign students, particularly those from India, along with applicants seeking work and resident permits. These measures, aimed at tightening migration policies, have raised concerns among international communities.
The new regulations, which came into effect at the beginning of February, grant Canadian border officials unchecked authority to modify or cancel visa statuses for students, workers, and other migrants. Under the updated Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, officials now have the discretion to reject or revoke temporary resident documents, including electronic travel authorizations (eTAs) and temporary resident visas (TRVs).
This shift means that border personnel can cancel key documents such as work permits and student visas under specific conditions. One significant criterion states that if an officer is not convinced that an individual will leave Canada after their authorized stay expires, they have the right to deny entry or cancel an active permit—even while the individual is already in the country.
These policy changes come amid Canada's broader efforts to reduce its temporary resident population, a move that has sparked backlash and concerns among immigrants and advocacy groups. The stricter visa framework has also fueled fears among students who have invested heavily in their education, with no clarity on refunds or legal recourse in case of sudden permit cancellations.
Additionally, Canada has tightened rules on family open work permits (OWPs) for international students and workers. Starting January 21, 2025, only spouses or partners of students enrolled in specific graduate programs—such as master's and doctoral degrees—will be eligible for an OWP. Families of undergraduate students and workers in non-essential sectors will no longer qualify. More details on these changes can be found in this report.
As Canada moves towards stricter immigration policies, uncertainty looms for Indian students and professionals. Many are now reconsidering their options, fearing that their dreams of education and work in Canada may be at risk. Read more about Canada’s immigration plans in this analysis.
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