Canada has made a pivotal change for international students by terminating its Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. The decision, effective immediately, aims to create a more equitable application process while impacting processing times and study permit issuance.
In a move that could significantly impact international students planning to study in Canada, the Canadian government has abruptly ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program.
This decision announced by IRCC, effective November 8, 2023, aims to “strengthen program integrity, address student vulnerability, and give all students equal and fair access to the application process.”
What is the Student Direct Stream (SDS)?
In 2018, Canada introduced the Student Direct Stream (SDS) as a faster, more efficient pathway for students from specific countries to secure study permits. Initially created for quick application processing, Canada eventually extended SDS to students from 14 countries, including India, China, and the Philippines.
It offered faster processing times of up to four weeks, compared to the regular stream’s average eight-week timeline and a higher approval rate compared to the regular study permit process.
Why Canada Decided to End SDS
According to the IRCC’s official statement, the end of SDS is part of Canada’s commitment to ensuring fairness in the student visa application process. The agency cited a need to address challenges around program integrity, support student safety, and provide a consistent experience for all international students.
This shift also aligns with broader immigration goals, including stabilizing study permit issuance at a target of 437,000 permits for 2025, a decrease from this year’s target of 485,000.
Impact of Ending the SDS
The discontinuation of the SDS is expected to have several implications for international students:
1. Slower Processing Times: Study permit applications will now be processed under the regular stream, which typically takes longer.
2. Increased Application Complexity: The streamlined application process offered by the SDS will no longer be available, potentially leading to more complex procedures and increased paperwork.
3. Reduced Student Intake: The Canadian government has already indicated plans to cap the number of study permits issued in 2025 and 2026. The elimination of the SDS could further reduce the overall intake of international students.
Other Key Changes for Visitors and Students
In recent months, the Canadian government has implemented several measures to regulate international student enrollment:
1. End of Automatic 10-Year Visa Validity: Canada has removed the automatic 10-year validity of multiple-entry visas for tourists, which previously allowed visitors to stay for extended periods.
2. Increased Financial Requirements for Study Permits: The Canadian government has implemented new financial requirements for international students seeking study permits. As of January 2024, students must demonstrate CAD 20,635 in proof of funds, an increase from the previous CAD 10,000 requirement.
3. Mandatory Verification for DLI Acceptance Letters: From December 2023, Canadian institutions must verify acceptance letters through IRCC to prevent fraud and enhance application integrity.
Final Words
Canada’s recent visa and immigration updates, including ending the Student Direct Stream and revising financial requirements, reflect a shift toward more controlled and secure immigration processes. These changes emphasize Canada’s commitment to fairness and integrity, impacting future students and visitors navigating Canada’s immigration pathways.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/canada-ends-student-direct-stream-a-major-shift-in-study-permit-processing/
