Canada tightens grip: International students including Indians, face 21-day deadline to submit documents
This move follows a report questioning the credibility of the International Student Program
Toronto (The Uttam Hindu): New directives from the Canadian government have raised concerns among international students. The government has tightened the screening process and set a 21-day deadline for students to submit the required documents. This decision has caused consternation among students from many countries, including India.
Canada has begun sending notices to international students, demanding documentation to confirm their compliance with study permit regulations. Hundreds of Indian students are also affected by this action. This move by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada follows a report by the Auditor General that raised serious questions about the credibility of the International Student Program.
In a report presented to the Canadian Parliament on March 23, Auditor General Karen Hogan said the department should take immediate action based on available information to ensure the credibility of the program.
According to the notice, students must submit an official letter from their Designated Learning Institution (DLI) confirming their current enrollment. They must also submit transcripts (mark sheets) from their current and previous educational institutions.
The notice clearly warns that if the required documents are not submitted within 21 days, the temporary resident status of the students may be terminated.
The decision has raised concerns among students and immigration consultants. Mississauga-based immigration consultant Kanwar Sirah said the action is coming too late. He said there was a spike in fraud cases last year, but most students had already completed their courses by then.
He also questioned how many students obtained work permits using fraudulent documents. He said the role of some educational institutions in this problem should also be investigated.
The government has also directed that a report on all suspected cases be submitted to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration by the 15th of every month.