The Canadian government has implemented new immigration rules in the country. Under the new rules, immigration officials have been given the right to cancel the visas of people living on temporary residence visas such as study and work permits. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has amended the “Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulation” and implemented the rule for canceling immigration documents.
What are the new rules?
According to the new immigration rules, Canadian officials can now cancel a person’s temporary residence visa if they suspect that the person is giving false information or has a criminal record.
Apart from this, if a person becomes a permanent resident or dies, the officials will also have the right to cancel the visa.
If the border officer suspects that a person will not leave Canada after the visa expires, his study visa or work permit can also be canceled. These rules may have the biggest impact on Indian students and employees.
When did the new rules come into effect?
The new visa rules have come into effect from 31 January 2025. IRCC has described these changes as an improvement in the immigration system.
Why did Canada take this decision?
Every year thousands of Indians apply for visas to go to Canada. The number of applications for study permits is increasing rapidly, due to which the Canadian government is trying to tighten the rules for temporary resident visas.
The Canadian government has taken this step to strengthen border security and prevent misuse of study permits.
What will be the impact of the new rules on Indian students and workers?
- Threat to study and work visas: If Canadian officials feel that a student or employee has come by giving wrong information, then his visa can be canceled immediately.
- Verified at the Border: People who are in Canada on temporary residence may have their visas cancelled without warning if any suspicions arise after their visa has expired.
- Impact on working Indians: This rule can be a cause of concern for Indian citizens working in Canada because if the visa is cancelled, they may have to leave the country immediately.
A matter of concern for Indian students
Currently more than 4.27 lakh Indian students are studying in Canada. Between January and July last year, 3.65 lakh Indians were issued visitor visas.
Now, after the new rules come into force, Indian students may face many new challenges in living and studying in Canada.
What should Indians living in Canada do?
- Keep all documents correct and valid.
- Follow the visa conditions completely.
- If the immigration officer inquires, give clear and accurate information.
- People working in Canada should keep all the necessary documents updated with their employer.
The new visa rules of the Canadian government have created new challenges for Indian students and workers. Now, people living in Canada on temporary visas will need to be more vigilant. If you want to live in Canada, then follow all the rules and avoid giving any wrong information.