Canada Rejects 80% of Indian Student Visas in 2025 as Rules Get Stricter

Canada, once a top destination for global education, is now rejecting student visas at the highest rate in 10 years. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) data shows that 62% of applications were rejected in 2025, compared to 52% in 2024. For Indian students, the rejection rate is even harsher, at around 80%.

Why Canada Is Tightening Rules

The government is worried about housing shortages and students’ financial stability. To address this, Ottawa has raised the minimum proof of funds to CA$20,635 (₹14.9 lakh), making it tougher for applicants to qualify. Students also need stronger study plans and error-free paperwork.

Fewer Permits and New Conditions

Canada plans to issue 437,000 study permits in 2025, about 10% fewer than last year. The Student Direct Stream, which earlier allowed faster visas for students from 14 countries without financial proof, has been shut down. New language requirements also apply for work permits; university graduates need B2 level English/French, while college graduates must have at least B1.

Numbers Behind the Decline

In 2024, Canada approved only 2.67 lakh new study permits, nearly 1 lakh fewer than the official target and 48% less than in 2023. By mid-2025, 5.46 lakh people in Canada held only study permits, while 3.12 lakh had both work and study permits.

Impact on Students and Universities

For Indian families, visa refusals mean wasted months of preparation and heavy financial losses. Universities and colleges, which depend on international tuition fees, are also facing uncertainty as enrolments drop sharply.

Read More: US Freezes EB-2 Green Card Issuance Until September 30; Indian Applicants to Face Extended Delays!

Conclusion

Canada’s stricter visa rules and higher rejection rates are altering the educational plans of thousands of Indian students. With proof of funds now at ₹14.9 lakh and fewer permits available, studying in Canada is becoming harder than ever.

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