Canada ends fast-track student visas for India and 13 other countries
The Student Direct Stream, which offered faster study permits for applicants from India, has closed. What changed for students, and what it means for families planning to visit them.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) closed the Student Direct Stream (SDS) on 8 November 2024. SDS had offered faster processing of study permits, often within about 20 days, for applicants from India and 13 other countries who met extra requirements, such as an IELTS score of 6.0 or above and a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) paid upfront.
What changed for students
All Indian students now apply through the regular study permit process, which generally takes longer and asks for a complete file upfront. That typically includes:
- A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution
- A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), where required
- A study plan
- Proof of funds for tuition and living costs, which Canada has raised more than once since 2024
- English or French language test results
- Biometrics
Canada has also capped the number of new study permits it issues each year. Fewer permits have been issued to Indian students since 2024, and approval rates have fallen. Applying as early as possible after receiving a letter of acceptance is essential.
What it means for families
The SDS closure didn't change visitor visas. Parents and relatives planning to visit a student in Canada still apply for a temporary resident (visitor) visa, online with biometrics. A few practical points:
- Apply early. Visitor visa processing from India varies widely, from a few weeks to several months. For convocations, apply three to six months ahead.
- Show the student's status. Include a copy of your child's study permit, enrolment letter and an invitation letter.
- Show your ties to India. Your job, business, property and family commitments matter as much as your funds.
- Fees: CAD 100 per person plus CAD 85 for biometrics (CAD 170 maximum for a family), plus the visa centre's charge.
How we help
We prepare visitor visa applications for parents and families visiting students in Canada, and plan the trip around the convocation date. See our Canada visitor visa page.
Updated October 2026. Canada's rules for students and visitors continue to change; we confirm current requirements when you enquire.
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