Canada Tightens Indian Student Visas

Canada has significantly tightened its international student visa rules, leading to a sharp increase in rejection rates for applicants, particularly from India. In August 2025, 74% of Indian study permit applications were rejected, more than double the rate from August 2023. This clampdown is part of Canada's broader effort to reduce temporary migrants and combat fraud, as authorities uncovered thousands of fraudulent letters of acceptance, many originating from India. The new policies have led to a dramatic drop in Indian applicants, who were historically Canada's largest source of international students. This development also coincides with strained diplomatic relations between Canada and India, following former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's accusations against the Indian government regarding a 2023 murder. Canadian universities, including the University of Waterloo, University of Regina, and University of Saskatchewan, have reported significant declines in Indian student enrollment, impacting their international student bodies. While Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand expressed concerns about immigration system integrity, she also affirmed the desire to continue hosting Indian students. Immigration experts note increased scrutiny for applicants, requiring more detailed proof of funds. The changing sentiment among prospective Indian students, coupled with difficulties in securing permanent residency or jobs in Canada, has led some rejected applicants to express relief.