Canada has officially discontinued the pathway for international students to transition from study permits to permanent residency as part of its recent immigration policy updates.

Under the new regulations, international students are now required to return to their home countries once their study visas in Canada expire. Additionally, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program is being terminated, along with the suspension of asylum claims associated with these immigration routes.

During a recent interview, Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, confirmed this significant shift in policy while addressing the challenges faced by international students in the country. This announcement comes on the heels of protests by international students across Canada advocating for a more straightforward process to shift from study permits to permanent residency or to extend their stay.

In response to these concerns, Miller stated, “When individuals choose to come here as students, there are no guarantees for permanent residency.” He clarified the difference between study permits and resident permits, reiterating that while students have the right to voice their opinions, Canada’s immigration policies prioritize maintaining balance and order within the system.

The Student Direct Stream (SDS), introduced in 2018, was designed to expedite the processing of study permits within 20 days for eligible candidates from 14 countries. Over time, it expanded its reach to include students from Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, the Philippines, Senegal, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.

Originally launched to alleviate political tensions, this program will now be phased out as part of Canada’s updated immigration framework.