Why in the News?

Canada has discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS), ending faster processing for students from specific countries, including India.

What is the Student Direct Stream (SDS) Visa?

The SDS is a fast-track visa processing program introduced by Canada in 2018 to expedite study permits for students from certain countries, including India.
Under SDS, applicants typically experienced processing times of around 20 days.
This stream was designed to simplify and speed up the application process for eligible students by requiring proof of financial stability (such as a Guaranteed Investment Certificate) and specific educational documentation.
The SDS applied to students from 14 countries, including: India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Trinidad and Tobago, among others.
Since its launch, SDS has been popular among Indian students, with a high approval rate for study permits in recent years.

Fair Access: Moving to a single, standardized process aims to provide equal opportunity for all applicants.
Strengthened Protection: Canada intends to address student vulnerability by improving safeguards in its regular process.

The changes are part of Canada’s broader immigration reforms, which also update financial requirements and study permit caps.

Indian students will face:

Longer Processing Times: Visa approvals may now take longer under the standard process.
Additional Financial Proof: More financial documentation will be required.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes: New rules from November 1, 2024 may impact work options after graduation.