CANADA: The Government of Canada’s revised immigration and visa policies have led to a historic surge in student visa rejections, disproportionately impacting Indian applicants and limiting their educational prospects in Canadian institutions.
According to a Reuters report, Indian students have been the most affected group under the new policy framework. In August 2025, rejection rates for Indian student visa applications skyrocketed to 74%, compared to 32% in 2023, marking the sharpest increase in recent years.
Canada Cites Immigration Pressure and Security Concerns
The Canadian government has defended the stricter visa process, pointing to the rising influx of immigrants and the necessity of enhanced security measures. Officials argue that the revised policies are aimed at ensuring sustainable immigration levels. However, education experts and stakeholders believe the move could discourage international enrollment and harm Canada’s reputation as a student-friendly destination.
Data Shows Drastic Decline in Indian Student Approvals
Official statistics reveal that in August 2025, 40% of all international student applications were rejected overall, while Chinese students faced a 24% rejection rate.
The approval numbers for Indian students declined dramatically from 20,900 visas in 2023 to just 4,515 in 2025.
Tensions Between India and Canada Add to the Crisis
This situation unfolds amid ongoing diplomatic strains between the two nations. In 2023, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of possible involvement in the killing of an Indian-origin Sikh activist in Surrey, British Columbia. The allegations sparked a year-long diplomatic standoff, resulting in the mutual expulsion of diplomats and a cooling of bilateral ties that continues to this day.
Experts Warn of Long-Term Implications
Analysts caution that the sharp decline in visa approvals could have lasting consequences for Canada’s education sector and international reputation. Many predict that Indian students, who comprise one of the largest foreign student populations in Canada, may now turn to other destinations, such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany, for their higher education. The policy shift, combined with political tensions, is likely to reshape global student mobility trends in the years ahead.
