Canada’s New Visa Rules: How Indian Students & Workers Are Affected.
Canada's recent changes to Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations have created challenges for Indian students and workers. The new rules grant Canadian border officials greater authority to modify or revoke visas, potentially impacting thousands of Indians living, studying, and working in Canada. This shift raises concerns over visa stability, deportation risks, and the future of Indian immigrants under the updated policies.
Due to new visa regulations in Canada, Indians residing there are facing challenging situations, especially students who are encountering significant difficulties.
The Canadian government recently amended its Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, which is said to primarily impact Indian nationals.
Over 1.3 million Indians live in Canada, making up about 3.7% of the country’s total population. Many Indians migrate to Canada for education, employment, and business opportunities. However, with the introduction of the new visa rules aimed at controlling foreign nationals, the situation has become more complex.
Under these new regulations, Canadian Border Officials have been granted broader authority over issuing and canceling visas. They now have the power to modify or revoke visas for foreign nationals, including Indians, at any time.
For example, if an Indian arrives in Canada on a work visa, officials can convert it into a visitor visa, limiting their ability to work long-term. Additionally, if border officials believe there has been a violation of rules, false information provided, or any perceived security threats, they can alter or cancel the visa, potentially leading to deportation—similar to cases seen in the United States.
Previously, these powers were held by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which processed visas more leniently, recognizing that immigration was a natural process and that foreign workers filled essential roles at lower wages. Visa rejections were rare, and individuals could appeal decisions in court.
However, now that border officials hold this authority, all entrants are scrutinized as potential migrants, leading to fewer visa approvals. If a visa is denied by border officials, immediate court appeals are no longer possible.
Moreover, the new rules allow border officials to revoke or change visas for Indians already residing in Canada. For instance, if an Indian student has invested heavily in their education, officials can still revoke their student visa, halting their studies and leading to deportation.
These new visa regulations have been in effect since February. Hence, it is crucial for Indians planning to travel to Canada to be aware of these changes.
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