Canada Explores Mass Visa Cancellation Targeting Indian Applicants

The Canadian government is considering a major policy shift. It could lead to the mass cancellation of temporary visas for Indian nationals. This action aims to address widespread fraud in the system.

According to a CBC News report, authorities are seeking new powers through pending legislation. The proposal specifically lists India as a country presenting significant challenges.

Legislation Designed for Broader Crises

The proposed measure is part of the Stronger Borders bill. This legislation is currently before parliament. It was originally conceived for use during pandemics or wars.

Internal documents reveal a different intent. A presentation from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) suggested using the power for “country-specific” issues. The report cited India and Bangladesh as the primary focus for this deterrence strategy.

Temporary residents would be most affected. This category includes foreign workers, international students, and visitors. The move aligns with Ottawa’s broader goal to reduce immigration levels.

Mounting Pressure on Canada’s Immigration System

This development comes amid growing anti-immigration sentiment in Canada. The government faces public pressure to curb intake. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration is expected to unveil a new immigration levels plan soon.

Data from Reuters shows the impact is already being felt. In August, rejection rates for Indian study permit applications soared to 74%. This is a sharp increase from 32% in the same month last year.

Immigration lawyer Sumit Sen had previously warned of such a possibility. He noted that the proposed bill grants the minister sweeping new powers. He referenced a 2007 instance where files were closed to clear a backlog.

The potential for mass visa cancellation marks a pivotal moment in Canada’s immigration policy. This Canada visa cancellation proposal could significantly alter the landscape for thousands of applicants and reshape international student flows.

Thought you’d like to know

What types of visas could be cancelled?

The mass cancellation power would apply to temporary resident visas. This category includes visas for international students, foreign workers, and visitors to Canada.

Why is Canada targeting Indian applicants specifically?

According to the report, Canadian authorities identified “country-specific challenges” related to fraud. The internal presentation listed India and Bangladesh as the primary sources of concern for fraudulent applications.

How many Indian applicants are affected by recent changes?

Recent data shows a dramatic increase in rejections. About 74% of Indian study permit applications were refused in August, compared to just 32% a year earlier.

Has Canada done this before?

While not an identical situation, the government did close files in 2007 to clear a backlog. The current proposal, however, would grant far broader powers for mass cancellations.

What is the Stronger Borders bill?

It is pending legislation designed to strengthen Canada’s border security. The bill includes a provision for mass visa cancellations, originally intended for use during crises like pandemics or wars.

Trusted Sources

CBC News, Reuters, Hindustan Times