The delay in Canadian visa processing has cast a dark cloud over the prospects of Punjabi students seeking to study in Canada. International diplomatic tensions between the two countries have hampered the visa application process, creating many challenges for Punjabi students.
Reasons for delays in visa processing:
The delay in issuance of visas can be attributed to the Hardeep Singh Nijjar case which soured relations between Canada and India. As a result, visa issuance in cities in Chandigarh, Mumbai and Bangalore is temporarily delaying.
Impact on Punjabi students:
The impact on Punjabi students has been horryifying, as they are the main victims of these issues. Many students and their parents now face the hassle and additional expense of traveling to Delhi for visa processing.
Canada’s attraction for Punjabi youth:
Canada has traditionally been an attractive destination for Punjabi youth due to its flexible education system, abundant employment opportunities and the promise of a direct path to permanent residence (PR) especially since Punjabis are the largest immigrant population since each is already in the country.
There is particular historical significance for Indian students, as they have historically been an integral part of Canada’s international student body. In fact, 35% of the foreign students who came to Canada on study visas were Indians
Canada's aspirations for Visa processing:
Canada had ambitious plans to expedite visa processing in India, with a substantial investment of $74.6 million. However, the recent diplomatic tensions between the two nations have disrupted these plans, leading to the closure of in-person visa processing services in cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chandigarh.
Economic consequences:
The repercussions of these visa delays extend beyond the educational realm. Canada's economy stands to take a hit, as nearly 30% of the approximately 9 lakh international students, who significantly contribute to the Canadian economy, are from India.
Delays in visa processing will inevitably affect the economic contribution of Indian students to Canada, posing challenges to Canada's economic recovery.