Canada, once a top choice for international students, especially from India, has imposed its most restrictive visa regime in a decade. According to IRCC data, nearly 80% of Indian student visa applications were refused in 2025, markinga dramatic shift in global student mobility. • Indian students make up about 40% of Canada’s international student population, but rejection rates soared to 4 out of 5 applicants in 02 2025. • In 2024, 1.88 lakh Indian students were admitted – over double from two years prior. Stricter rules include higher financial proof requirements (CA$20,635) and tighter work regulations. At the same time, Canada’s share of preference among Indian students has dropped from 18% in 2022 to just 9% in 2024, while Germany has emerged as the new leader, attracting 31% of students with affordable education, strong career prospects, and English-language programs. This policy change reflects Canada’s domestic challenges – from housing shortages to political pressure to prioritize lo cal talent and signals a fundamental shift in international education trends.
