Recently, Canada has emerged as a popular destination for pursuing higher education among students. The country hosts some of the finest institutions that ranked among the world’s top universities according to QS World University Rankings 2025, namely the University of British Columbia to the University of Columbia. Many institutions are there in Canada where Indian students desire to study. To manage the increasing influx of students, Canada has implemented several measures, one of which is the removal of the SDS visa program.

About SDS Visa

The SDS visa was introduced in 2018 to simplify the study permit applications for some countries, including India. Visa processing was faster, with lower application fees and less documentation. With the introduction of the SDS visa, Indian students benefitted the most. SDS visa approval rate was 63%, compared to non-SDS applicants, which was 19%.

Reasons for discontinuing SDS visa

SDS visa has been discontinued by Canada on November 8, 2024, mentioning several challenges:

• Some applicants have misused the SDS program to gain permanent residency.
• With the increasing number of international students, the housing shortage is overpowering, especially in cities like Vancouver and Toronto.
• Because of the growing student population, immense pressure was on education and healthcare.
• Canada aimed at strengthening immigration integrity and ensuring fairness for all applicants.

Impact of SDS Visa discontinuation on Indian students

SDS visa has been discontinued by Canada on November 8, 2024, mentioning several challenges:

• Visa processing time maybe longer now
• With the removal of the SDS, the visa success rate will now need to be closely monitored.
• Now, students have to submit more documents that include proof of funds.

Wrapping up

Now, students do not need to freeze their living expenses, and with no lock of tuition fees, they gain greater flexibility. Additionally, refunds can be simpler, as bulk funds no longer need to be sent before visa approval.

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