Study Abroad: Diplomatic Tensions Fuel 86% Drop in Canadian Study Permits for Indian Students

Fallout from Diplomatic Spat between India and Canada Hits Education Sector Hard

In a stark turn of events, Canada has witnessed an alarming 86% decline in the issuance of study permits to Indian students during the last quarter of 2023. This significant drop is attributed to the ongoing diplomatic dispute between the two nations.

According to a Reuters report, tensions escalated after New Delhi, in October 2023, ordered 41 Canadian diplomats to leave the country, citing a need for parity in diplomatic presence in accordance with the Vienna Convention. The repercussions of this move were felt directly in the education sector, leading to a substantial reduction in the number of study permits issued to Indian students.Canada's Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, highlighted that the decline in study permits was a direct result of India's decision to ask Canadian diplomats involved in processing these permits to depart. Additionally, the diplomatic rift over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada has further dissuaded Indian students from applying for study permits in the country.

Official data, previously undisclosed, reveals a staggering drop from 108,940 study permits issued in the previous quarter to a mere 14,910 in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Miller expressed pessimism about a swift rebound, stating, "Our relationship with India has really halved our ability to process a lot of applications from India." The strained diplomatic ties are expected to cast a prolonged shadow on the number of study permits granted to Indian students.

The decline in Indian students seeking permits is a concerning development for Canadian universities, given that international students contribute approximately C$22 billion ($16.4 billion) annually. C. Gurusubramanian, counselor for the High Commission of India in Ottawa, mentioned that some Indian students are exploring alternatives due to concerns about residential and teaching facilities in certain Canadian institutions.

Current Scenario of Indian Students in Canada

In 2022, Indians comprised the largest group of international students in Canada, with over 41%—a substantial 225,835 students. However, the recent diplomatic tensions have resulted in a dramatic shift, with the number plummeting to 14,910 in the final quarter of 2023.

Canada, grappling with an ongoing housing shortage, has expressed a need to reduce the overall number of international students. Minister Miller hinted at potential measures, including a possible cap, to address the overwhelming influx, emphasizing the necessity for a significant reduction over a short period.