Canada Scraps SDS Visa to Benefit Indian Students: Govt

Canada ended its Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa programme on November 8, which allowed Indian students to fast-track their study permit applications. Before the programme ended, around 60% of the 400,000 Indian students planning to study in Canada applied through SDS. This programme had a high approval rate of 70%, compared to just 10% for students applying through the regular route.

The Indian government believes the end of the SDS programme will benefit Indian students. According to Kirti Vardhan Singh, a junior minister in India’s External Affairs Ministry, this change will make the admission process more affordable for students. Students no longer have to meet the higher financial requirements that were part of the SDS programme.

Previously, students applying through the SDS had to pay one year’s tuition fees upfront and show a $20,635 Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), along with meeting strict language requirements. Now, with the SDS programme scrapped, students only need to pay six months of tuition fees upfront and show they have enough funds to cover their living expenses. This will make it easier and cheaper for students to apply.

Currently, India is the largest source of international students in Canada, with about 427,000 Indian students enrolled at Canadian universities. The Canadian government ended the SDS programme to ensure equal access for all students and reduce student vulnerability. The Indian government continues to prioritize the well-being of its students in Canada and regularly discusses any issues with Canadian authorities.