Canada asks Indian students to submit documents afresh leaving them 'confused and worried'

Indian students in Canada were left surprised after they reportedly received emails asking them to resubmit crucial documents such as study permits, visas and educational records, including marks and attendance. According to The Times of India, the request came from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), a Canadian government department that deals with foreign students.

The mail caused widespread panic among international students, many of whom hold visas with up to two years’ validity. The request for the resubmission of the documents came after IRCC tightened its policies to regulate the influx of international students. The measures include stricter financial requirements and exploring potential caps on student admissions.

“I was a bit shocked when I received the email. My visa is valid until 2026, yet I was asked to submit all my documents again,” a postgraduate student from Hyderabad told TOI. “They even want proof of attendance, marks, where we are working part-time, etc.,” he added.

Students left shocked by recent surge in emails

According to TOI, a similar surge in email was reported last week, especially among students from Punjab. Some of the students were also asked to visit IRCC offices in person to verify their credentials. “Many students are confused and worried,” an Indian student studying in Ontario told TOI.

In recent years, Canada has seen a major surge in international student enrollment, with Indian students taking up a substantial part. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Canada hosts the largest number of Indian students, with 4.2 lakh enrolled, followed by the US with 3.3 lakh Indian students.

After receiving the emails, many students urged IRCC to provide clear communication over the matter and address the concerns. Meanwhile, experts are asking students to act promptly on document submissions to avoid any issues in the future. “This move appears to be part of Canada’s broader strategy to control the number of international students,” Mehbub Rajwani, an immigration consultant in Toronto told TOI.

“Caps and financial requirements being introduced are a clear signal. This move could also be to filter out genuine students as many change their designated learning institution and shift to one where there is no restriction on attendance so they can work in Canada,” he added. He warned that if students don’t comply with these rules, it could lead to visa cancellation.

With inputs from agencies.