The cancellation of the SDS comes as Canada seeks to better manage its international student population, amid increasing pressures on housing and resources.Canada suspends fast-track study visa program for international students, effective immediately. (Image: Getty) Canada has unexpectedly ended its widely used Student Direct Stream (SDS) program, effective Friday, November 8, 2024. This program, which expedited the study permit process, had helped thousands of international students secure visas quickly.Introduced in 2018 by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the SDS aimed to simplify visa applications for students from 14 countries, including India, China, and the Philippines, who met specific requirements. These included a Canadian Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $20,635 CAD and English or French language proficiency. Successful applicants could obtain study permits in just a few weeks, compared to the standard application process, which could take up to eight weeks for Indian applicants.The cancellation of the SDS comes as Canada seeks to better manage its international student population, amid increasing pressures on housing and resources. In line with this, the government has introduced a cap of 437,000 new study permits for 2025 across all education levels, including postgraduate programs. Other new measures include higher language and academic standards for those seeking a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), more restrictive work permits for spouses of international students, and increased financial proof requirements. These changes reflect Canada attempt to balance the benefits of hosting over 807,000 study permit holders in 2023 with the need to alleviate strain on housing and public services.As a result, international students will face longer processing times and stricter eligibility criteria. Experts advise students to begin their visa applications much earlier to adapt to the changing landscape.