Increasing visa refusals may impact genuine students’ travel to Canada

LAHORE:Acclaimed career counsellor and veteran educationist Syed Abidi has said that while Canada remains a popular destination for international students, particularly from South Asia, including Pakistan, there has been a noticeable uptick in student visa refusals during the 2023-24 cycle.

This increase, he explained in an interview with The News, is widely attributed by leading agencies and university representatives assisting students with Canadian applications to recent changes in visa regulations.

Syed Abidi, honoured with the prestigious national civil award, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, says that Canada is known for pioneering CO-OP programmes, which incorporate six months to a year of industry placement within degree courses. Another appealing aspect is the affordability of Canadian education compared to other countries.

‘These factors have solidified Canada’s status as a leading destination for international students. However, the recent increase in visa refusals may threaten this position,’ he observed. According to Mr Abidi, despite clear and transparent documentation, eligibility, and intent to study, many applications from Pakistan and other regional countries, assessed by the CIC in Abu Dhabi, have been denied.

‘The common reason cited by CIC is under paragraph R216 (1) (b) of the IRPR, which in numerous cases does not align with the paperwork provided by applicants. As there is no appeal process for student permits, students are left with no choice but to reapply, incurring additional fees and resubmitting the same documents that failed to address the refusal clause,’ noted Mr Abidi.

The veteran educationist further says that visa delays and refusals not only result in students losing their academic year but also impose significant financial burdens, especially with the long wait for refunds, which only commence after a refusal is received, whether on an SDS application or a standard application.

‘Therefore, it is crucial for students to ensure they provide accurate paperwork and complete documentation in line with Canadian student permit regulations, which can be found at Canadian Student Permit Rules (https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/sor-2002-227/section-216.html).

Additionally, seeking professional advice from a qualified lawyer or consultant is highly recommended,’ he added. Syed Abidi further said that it was unfortunate that a noticeable slowdown of Pakistani students going to Canada had been observed. However, he hoped that this trend would improve in the coming years as applicants become better prepared to meet the application requirements based on the tips, he shared.