Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:41am on 09 Nov 2024,Saturday International
Canada abruptly ended its Student Direct Stream (SDS) program on November 8, 2024, discontinuing a fast-track study permit process for international students. Launched in 2018, SDS simplified visa applications for students from 14 countries, including India, China, and the Philippines. Requirements included a $20,635 CAD Guaranteed Investment Certificate and language test scores. The streamlined process allowed successful applicants to secure permits within weeks, compared to the standard 8-week processing time. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) terminated the program without explanation, affecting thousands of students seeking to study in Canada. The move is expected to impact international student enrollment.
