Canada : In the midst of a diplomatic standoff between India and Canada, Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education in the North American nation find themselves in a state of uncertainty. The situation, triggered by the expulsion of a high-ranking Indian diplomat and controversial remarks from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has cast a shadow of doubt over the future of these students.
Families, particularly from Punjab and Gujarat, who have invested substantial sums in their children’s education in Canada, are understandably anxious. Surat-based businessman Yunus Shaikh’s daughter is scheduled to depart for Canada on a study visa on October 2.
“Our visa consultancy firm says there is nothing to worry about. But the news on television and social media is quite worrisome. We have spent around Rs 20 lakh on college fees, accommodation facilities, and other expenses for my daughter. We are praying that the situation between the two countries becomes normal in the next few days,” he shared, echoing the concerns of many parents.
Nirmal Raval from Ahmedabad, whose son Armaan was set to study supply chain management at a university in Ottawa, has also decided to put their plans on hold. The prevailing uncertainty has prompted them to reconsider their choices.
For some students, like Harsh Patel from Ahmedabad, time is running out. He has received a confirmation letter from a university in Ottawa and needs to deposit a hefty course fee of Rs 12 lakh before October 6. “My admission for the two-year financial services program will be canceled if I do not deposit the fee before October 6,” Harsh lamented.
His father, Vishnubhai, an employee in a private firm, expressed his fears, “What if the visa service is stopped for Indians after we pay the fee? How will I repay the loan I have taken for his studies? Since we do not have any friends or relatives in Ottawa, we do not have access to any authentic information.”
In this climate of uncertainty, Vinay Kumar, the head of a reputed visa consultancy firm in Surat, emphasizes the need to dispel fake news and rumors. He reassures students and parents that there is no reason to panic, stating that the Canadian government has not canceled visas already granted to Indian students. Visa processing for those who have applied or are applying is proceeding without hindrance.
However, amid these concerns, there is a glimmer of hope for some applicants from Punjab. Despite the overall uncertainty, some residents have received their visas recently without any issues.
Akashdeep from Jalandhar expressed relief on receiving his visa, along with several of his friends. Kulwinder Singh from Ludhiana also confirmed that he received his visa without any hassle. The positive trend is echoed by Tirath Singh of Pinnacle Education and Immigration, who encourages students and parents to stay focused on their studies.
He cites examples of students with varying academic backgrounds and PTE scores successfully obtaining visas, emphasizing that there is currently no reason for concern regarding student visas.
Canada & Indian Students
Every year, a substantial number of Indian students pursue education in Canada, with the numbers steadily increasing. Data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows that in the first half of 2023, approximately 1.75 lakh students have already received visas.
Sanjay Chawda, an educational consultant based in Vadodara, anticipates that the differences between both countries will be resolved by the next admission cycle in January.
While there may be some impact on students applying for colleges in Canada in October and November, Chawda remains optimistic about a resolution, echoing the hopes of countless Indian students and their families.
Also Read : Visa Services : Temporarily Suspended in Canada by India Until Further Notice