Canada tightens visa rules; Indian applicants face higher rejection amid fraud concerns

New Delhi: In recent days, Canada has begun to adopt a stricter stance regarding its visa policy. Due to the increasing number of visa fraud cases, forged documents, and misinformation, Canadian authorities now want to be given more power to cancel and reject visas. According to a CBC News report, Canada has partnered with US agencies to identify fraudulent tourist visa applications from India and Bangladesh. This could directly affect Indian applicants, especially those applying for studies or temporary residency. China Extends Visa-Free Entry to France, Adds Sweden, Boosting Tourism and EU Engagement Increased Scrutiny on Indian Visa Applicants The report indicates that this move comes at a time when the Canadian government has imposed certain restrictions on international students. In August 2025, approximately 74 percent of Indian students applying for visas to study at Canadian colleges had their applications rejected. This means that three out of every four Indian applications were denied. Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) and Border Services Agency (CBSA) have formed a joint working group, which has listed India and Bangladesh as countries posing "special challenges." This group seeks the authority to tighten visa scrutiny and directly cancel suspicious applications. [caption id="attachment_156335" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Indian Passport[/caption] Visa Cancellation Bill and Government Intent The report also states that a new bill has been introduced in the Canadian Parliament, which would grant the government the power of "mass visa cancellation." This provision could be applied in the event of a pandemic, war, or other special circumstances. However, Immigration Minister Lena Diab clarified that the government is not targeting any specific country but only wants this authority for emergency situations. Nevertheless, documents suggest that Indian and Bangladeshi applications are being placed under particular scrutiny. Expedited Visa Processing for Indians. According to reports, there has been a sharp increase in the number of asylum seekers from India—from around 500 per month in May 2023 to approximately 2000 by July 2024. Furthermore, the volume of Indian temporary visa applications has become so high that the verification process has been significantly lengthened. Previously, the average visa processing time was 30 days, but since July 2023, it has increased to 54 days. Consequently, the visa approval rate has also decreased in 2024. These 3 countries are ideal for honeymoons, with no visa requirements for Indians Consequences and Potential Impact This new stringency by Canada could directly impact Indian students, tourists, and temporary workers. It will likely lead to longer application processing times and more rigorous scrutiny of fraudulent documents. According to experts, this move could signal the beginning of significant changes in international student and immigration policies.