**
The number of Indian undergraduate students seeking study permits in Canada has witnessed a considerable decline, attributed largely to policy changes that have curtailed spousal work permits. An internal communication from the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi has shed light on the implications of these changes, revealing how they have influenced student choices and raised concerns about the integrity of applications.
Policy Changes and Their Consequences
A detailed email report from 2025, acquired through access to information laws, outlines the ramifications of Canada’s immigration policy adjustments. These changes, implemented in 2024 by then-Immigration Minister Marc Miller, revoked open work permits for spouses of most international students, a move that has seemingly redirected the flow of Indian students toward other countries.
The report highlights the prevalence of “marriages of convenience” among some Indian students, who previously relied on this route to bring their spouses to Canada. These arrangements, often publicised in Indian media and dating platforms, allowed spouses to secure work permits that could financially support their partners during their studies. The abrupt cessation of this practice has prompted many to seek educational opportunities elsewhere, particularly in nations like Germany, Sweden, and Finland, where spousal visas remain available.
Shift in Student Demographics
The alterations to spousal visa policies have had a tangible impact on the number of Indian study permit holders. Statistics from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reveal a dramatic drop in applications, with numbers plummeting from 277,950 in 2023 to just 93,840 in 2025. This decline represents a significant loss of revenue for Canadian educational institutions, which have come to rely on international students as a vital source of funding.
Syed Hussan, executive director of Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, articulated that many prospective students are opting for countries that allow family accompaniment. He also pointed to the unpredictability of Canadian immigration policies as a contributing factor, stating that sudden changes can dissuade students from choosing Canada as their destination.
Regulatory Scrutiny and Integrity Issues
The email from Han Duan, first secretary (migration) at the High Commission, raises concerns about the integrity of the study permit system. It indicates a decline in both the quantity and quality of Indian applicants following the introduction of new restrictions. The report noted troubling signs that some applicants may have misrepresented their English language proficiency, casting doubt on the authenticity of their qualifications.
As part of their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the International Student Program, IRCC officials are trained to identify fraudulent applications, including those involving spousal relationships. Jeffrey MacDonald, an IRCC spokesperson, stated that any application deemed insincere could lead to refusal and potential removal from Canada for the individuals involved.
The Bigger Picture
The tightening of immigration rules for international students has extended beyond just spousal permits. In January 2024 and January 2025, the Canadian government implemented further restrictions, limiting open work permits to spouses of students enrolled in master’s or doctoral programmes, or specific professional courses. This has raised questions about the future of Canada as a prime destination for international education.
Richard Kurland, an immigration lawyer, underscored the importance of selecting candidates who can afford their studies without relying on work. He argued that the educational pipeline should not be seen as a mere entry point into Canada for individuals seeking residency.
Why it Matters
The decline in Indian study permit applications is not just a statistic; it reflects broader implications for Canada’s education and immigration policies. As international students play a crucial role in driving innovation and economic growth, the government must balance integrity with accessibility. The ongoing shifts in the international student landscape may compel Canadian policymakers to reconsider their approach, ensuring that the country remains an attractive option for prospective scholars while maintaining the integrity of its immigration system.
