- Discontinuation of Expedited Visa Programs: Canada has ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE) programs, which previously offered faster visa processing for international students from countries like Pakistan, India, China, and Nigeria.
- Switch to Regular Study Permit Stream: Students from these countries must now apply through the standard study permit process, which still accepts Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs) as proof of financial support.
- Commitment to International Students: Despite ending the SDS and NSE programs, Canada remains dedicated to providing equal access and welcoming international students, offering a diverse and supportive academic environment.
Canada has announced changes to its SDS study visa application process for international students, emphasizing its commitment to providing equal access for all applicants, including those from Pakistan.
Since its launch in 2018, the Student Direct Stream (SDS study visa) has been a popular option for eligible students seeking faster processing times for study permits. The program included countries such as Pakistan, India, China, and Nigeria, streamlining the visa approval process to help students pursue higher education in Canada more efficiently.
However, in a recent policy update, Canada decided to discontinue both the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and the Nigeria Student Express (NSE) programs.
The termination of these initiatives is effective immediately and applies to all participating countries, including Pakistan. The decision is part of Canada’s broader efforts to enhance the integrity of its visa processes and ensure equal treatment for all international students.
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Moving forward, prospective students from Pakistan and other previously eligible countries will need to apply through the regular study permit stream.
This standard application process continues to accept Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs) as proof of financial support, enabling students to demonstrate their ability to fund their studies in Canada.
Despite the closure of these expedited visa pathways, Canada remains committed to welcoming international students and providing them with quality educational opportunities in a multicultural and inclusive setting.
The country continues to value the contributions of international students and aims to offer them a supportive environment for academic and personal growth.
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