Punjabi Youth Turn to Student Visas as Canada Halts Work Permits for Visitors
In light of Canada's recent decision to stop issuing work permits to individuals on visitor or tourist visas, many Indians, particularly from Punjab, are now turning to student visas to extend their…
In light of Canada's recent decision to stop issuing work permits to individuals on visitor or tourist visas, many Indians, particularly from Punjab, are now turning to student visas to extend their stay. This comes as Canada continues to cap the number of international students, a move that has made obtaining student visas more difficult.According to consultants in Punjab, a growing number of youth who originally intended to pursue studies in Canada entered the country on visitor visas this year. Most visitor visas allow stays of up to six months, but with the tightening of work permit regulations, these individuals are now looking to student visas as a way to remain in Canada.Despite the challenges, Canada imposes no age limit for student visa applications, and visitors are still eligible to apply. This has led to a surge in interest among Punjabi youth, who are seeking education pathways as an alternative to entering the Canadian job market directly.The shift in visa strategy is largely a response to Canada's cap on international students, which was implemented in January 2024. As securing study permits has become more competitive, many opted for visitor visas, hoping to transition into the workforce. However, the recent policy change has prompted these individuals to reconsider their plans and pursue educational opportunities as a means of staying in Canada.
