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The number of Indian students seeking undergraduate study permits in Canada has seen a significant downturn, largely attributed to the end of a programme that permitted the spouses of international students to obtain work permits. Internal communications from Canada’s High Commission in New Delhi reveal that this shift has not only influenced student numbers but also raised concerns about the integrity of the immigration process.
Spousal Visa Restrictions Prompt Shift in Applications
A detailed email report, dated 2025 and accessed through information laws, sheds light on the ramifications of policy changes instituted by the Canadian government under former immigration minister Marc Miller in 2024. This change, which ceased the issuance of open work permits for the spouses of most undergraduate international students, has driven many Indian applicants to consider alternatives in other countries that still offer such opportunities, notably Germany, Sweden, and Finland.
The correspondence, sent to senior officials within the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), highlights the reliance of many Indian students on “marriages of convenience” as a means to secure financial support while studying. Han Duan, a migration specialist at the High Commission, noted that these arrangements were frequently advertised in Indian media and dating platforms, aimed at facilitating spousal entry into Canada.
Impact on Canadian Educational Institutions
The reduction in Indian study permit holders is stark; from a peak of 277,950 in 2023, numbers plummeted to just 93,840 by 2025. This decline poses a critical challenge for Canadian colleges and universities that depend on international tuition fees as a substantial revenue source. The ripple effects of this shift could jeopardise the financial stability of these institutions, which have increasingly relied on international enrolment to offset domestic funding gaps.
Richard Kurland, an immigration lawyer, emphasised that Canada has the prerogative to choose its international students wisely, suggesting that the tightening of immigration rules should result in attracting only those capable of financially supporting themselves without the need to work. He remarked, “Study permits should not be a dating trampoline to Canada,” reinforcing the notion that the integrity of the immigration system must be preserved.
Unpredictable Immigration Landscape Disheartens Students
Syed Hussan, the executive director of Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, pointed out that many prospective students are opting for destinations that maintain more stable and family-friendly immigration policies. He highlighted the unpredictability of Canadian immigration rules as a deterrent, noting that individuals often face abrupt changes mid-process, creating an environment of uncertainty.
The IRCC has responded to concerns by stating that reforms to the International Student Programme were necessary to enhance its integrity and protect genuine students. However, the tightening of rules, particularly the restriction of open work permits to spouses of students enrolled in longer master’s and select professional programmes, has inadvertently limited the opportunities available to many applicants.
Addressing Integrity Concerns
The internal communication also raised alarms regarding the qualifications of some applicants. Reports indicated a troubling drop in both the number and quality of Indian students applying for study permits following the implementation of stricter regulations. Language proficiency issues were particularly concerning, with indications that some applicants did not possess adequate English skills despite presenting qualifications that suggested otherwise.
The IRCC has committed to maintaining the integrity of its immigration processes, asserting that measures are in place to detect and address fraudulent applications, including those stemming from insincere relationships. This vigilance is crucial as the department aims to refine its approach to managing international student admissions while ensuring that genuine students are not unfairly penalised.
Why it Matters
The decline in Indian student applications to Canada not only reflects discontent with recent immigration policies but also highlights broader implications for the country’s educational system and economic landscape. As institutions grapple with dwindling enrolments, the need for a balanced approach to immigration that prioritises both integrity and accessibility is paramount. A failure to adapt could risk undermining Canada’s position as a preferred destination for international students, ultimately affecting its cultural diversity and economic growth prospects.
