Indian Students in Canada: Why Your Visa Documents May Need to Be Resubmitted

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently issued notifications to Indian students in Canada, requesting them to resubmit essential documents such as study permits, visas, and educational records. This update has raised concerns among students, including those with valid visas extending up to two more years. Here's a detailed overview of the situation and related policies.

Clarification from IRCC

IRCC has addressed the concerns, explaining that these requests are part of standard procedures under Canada's international student compliance regime, established in 2015.

• Twice-Yearly Reporting: Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) must report on the enrolment status of their international students twice annually.
• Student Involvement: While compliance activities generally target DLIs, students may occasionally be asked to confirm enrolment through documents like current or past transcripts.

Focus on Indian Students

India is the leading source of international students in Canada, with over 427,000 Indian students enrolled as of August 2024. Due to this, Indian nationals may receive a higher number of such requests.

Study Permit Rules for Students

Students holding a Canadian study permit must adhere to several conditions to maintain their status:

General Requirements

• Enroll at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Actively pursue studies by attending classes and progressing academically.
• Be enrolled full-time or part-time during academic semesters, excluding breaks.
• Avoid unauthorized leaves exceeding 150 days.
• Apply for a new permit when transferring to a new post-secondary institution.
• Stop studying if you no longer meet student requirements.
• Leave Canada upon the expiration of your permit.

Deferred Enrolment Rules

• Avoid starting at a DLI that loses its designation before your studies begin.
• Transfer to a new DLI and extend your study permit if your enrolment is deferred.

Authorized Leave Rules

• Take an authorized leave for up to 150 days if approved by your DLI.
• Resume studies the next semester, even if it begins earlier than 150 days.
• Refrain from working during an authorized leave.

Compliance Proof

Students may need to provide:

• Official transcripts or documents verifying enrolment.
• Justifications for authorized leaves, supported by medical proof if applicable.

Addressing Fraudulent Acceptance Letters

In a separate issue, IRCC uncovered over 10,000 fraudulent student acceptance letters in 2024. Reports suggest that 80% of these fake documents originated from students in Gujarat and Punjab.

Key Concerns

• Verification Lapses: Allegations point to insufficient vetting of acceptance letters by some educational institutions.
• Widespread Malpractices: Corruption and systemic flaws in immigration processes necessitate comprehensive reforms.

Legal Implications for Students

Students with fraudulent acceptance letters often face deportation proceedings, making it challenging to pursue legal action against consultants operating outside Canada.

Ensuring Compliance and Avoiding Issues

Indian students in Canada are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow all study permit rules to avoid complications. Compliance with immigration regulations and awareness of fraudulent practices are essential for maintaining a secure status in Canada.

This structured approach aims to provide clarity and support for students navigating these requirements and challenges.