Canada shuts down 'Student Direct Stream' program amid housing shortages

Canada has unexpectedly ended its widely used Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, with the decision taking effect on Nov 8, 2024. The program, which offered a fast-track study permit process, had been instrumental in helping thousands of international students secure visas quickly.

Introduced in 2018 by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the SDS was designed to streamline the visa application process for students from 14 countries, including India, China, and the Philippines, who met certain eligibility criteria.

The program's requirements included a Canadian Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $20,635 CAD and language test scores in either English or French.

This expedited process enabled successful applicants to obtain study permits within a few weeks, while the standard application route typically took about eight weeks for Indian applicants.

In light of housing and resource shortages, Canada is increasingly attempting to regulate its foreign student population, which is reflected in the cancellation of the SDS program.

The government has set a maximum of 437,000 new study permits for 2025, covering all educational levels, including postgraduate programs, as part of its 2024 policy changes.

Additional measures include stricter language and academic requirements for students seeking the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), limited work permits for the spouses of overseas students, and increased financial proof requirements.

These revisions come as Canada strives to balance the benefits of its foreign education industry, which is expected to welcome a record 807,000 study visa holders in 2023, with the need to reduce pressure on housing and services.

As a result, international students now face stricter eligibility requirements and longer wait times. Advisors are urging students to start planning their visa applications much earlier than before to navigate this new, more restrictive environment.