Canada Slashes Over 13,000 Study Permits for Indian Students in Early 2025 Amid Stricter Visa Rules

Canada issued more than 13,000 fewer study visas to Indian students in January to March 2025 compared to a year ago, dealing a harsh blow from Canada's stringent visa policies. According to the government's latest statistics, Indian applicants received barely 23,000 visas between the months of January and March 2025, down from 36,000 in the same period in 2024.

 

The drop comes after tighter federal restrictions on foreign student admissions and stricter financial requirements put in place to meet housing shortages and give more assistance to immigrants. Indian students—who have long been the most populous group of foreign students in Canada—are hit hardest, with some experiencing increased processing delays and more intense vetting of applications.

 

Education consultants have cautioned that the reforms could affect the study plans of thousands of Indian students and Canadian colleges that rely on foreign tuition. Experts add that candidates must prepare themselves with stronger financial credentials and seek alternatives elsewhere where competition turns intense.

 

The move has stirred up controversy on both sides: while others applaud the effort to manage resources, others worry about its long-term effects on Canada's education system and global image.

 

Source: The Economic Times, Times of India, CBC News