 "Representational image. Reuters")
Canada has made significant changes to its immigration regulations in its latest step to curb migration.
The new Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations authorise border officials to cancel temporary resident documents such as electronic travel authorisations (eTAs) and temporary resident visas (TRVs).
This change could adversely impact students, employees, and temporary residents living in the North American nation.
The new regulation came into effect on 31 January.
Canada is a preferred destination for Indian students pursuing higher education. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), around 427,000 Indian students are currently studying in Canada.
The updated rules are part of broader changes Canada is implementing as part of its new immigration policies. These changes include the cancellation of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa programme in late 2024.
Canadian border officials can now cancel visas
Under the new regulations, immigration and border officers in Canada now have greater authority to cancel electronic travel authorisations (eTAs), temporary resident visas (TRVs), work permits, and study permits under specific circumstances.
Canada is home to a large Indian community, with over 1.35 million people of Indian origin residing in the country, according to the 2021 Census.
Indians in Canada
In recent years, Canada has been a favoured destination for Indian immigrants. The number of Indians immigrating to Canada increased from 32,828 in 2013 to 139,715 in 2023, marking a 326 per cent rise.