For years, families in Punjab have invested heavily, often selling land and taking loans, to fulfill the dream of their children studying and settling in Canada. This year, however, sweeping policy changes by Ottawa have upended these aspirations, altering immigration dynamics and deeply affecting communities in Punjab.
Policy Shifts Spark Uncertainty
In January, Canada doubled the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) requirement for international students from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,635. This was followed by imposing a 10% cap on student permit visas for two years. The closure of the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program and stricter regulations on study and work permits have further complicated the landscape. These changes have ignited widespread protests across Canada, particularly among students from private institutions who feel the new policies erect significant barriers to their education and future careers.
Canada’s Immigration Minister Marc Miller recently highlighted unethical practices among immigration consultants, linking a surge in asylum claims by international students to potential misrepresentation by advisers. This statement has added to the tension, raising concerns about the integrity of the immigration process.
Economic Impact on Punjab
The fallout is most acutely felt in Punjab, where immigration centers have reported an alarming 80% drop in Canada-related inquiries. Many offices have been forced to close or reduce their workforce by nearly 30%, devastating not only aspiring students but also those already in Canada struggling with tighter post-study and work opportunities.
Daljit Nirman, a barrister and visiting professor in Canada, explains that these changes aim to rectify overly relaxed policies of the past, which led to uncontrolled growth and challenges for institutions and communities. However, Nirman remains skeptical about the effectiveness of these adjustments.
Sumit Jain, owner of Jain Overseas in Jalandhar, notes a sharp decline in inquiries and enrollments at IELTS centers. “The enthusiasm for Canada has waned, and those already there face uncertainty regarding permanent residency,” he says. This shift is also leading to job losses in Punjab, as many offices shut down or cut staff.
Shift to Alternative Destinations
Consultants like Sunil from Pyramid eServices predict that uncertainty will persist until at least January 2026. Aspiring students are increasingly looking towards Germany, France, and Ireland, which offer more transparent and welcoming immigration policies. Manisha Zaveri of Career Mosaic reports a 70% drop in Canadian enrollments since 2021, with expectations of further declines by 2025.
Sachin Jain of ETS India observes that while Canada remains a top choice for serious students, alternatives like the United States, Australia, and Switzerland are gaining popularity for their stability and clear work opportunities.
Malwa Region Hardest Hit
The Malwa region, particularly Ajit Road in Bathinda, has been severely impacted. Once home to over 200 immigration centers, the area now sees an 80% drop in IELTS coaching and a 60-70% reduction in visa processing services. Baljeet Singh, a small consultancy owner, had to shut down his center due to dwindling applications, highlighting the broader economic strain on local businesses.
A Desperate “Game” for Stability
Amid these challenges, many immigrants in Canada are seeking to enter the United States through asylum, hoping for better opportunities and permanent residency. This “game” involves navigating complex and risky pathways, often facilitated by unscrupulous agents who charge exorbitant fees. Asylum-seekers face precarious situations, with many detained upon crossing the border and relying on prolonged application processes to stay and work in the US.
Looking Ahead
As Punjab grapples with these changes, experts urge caution and better-informed decisions before investing in immigration services. The downturn has not only affected businesses but also the dreams of countless families striving for a better future abroad. With Canada’s policies continuing to evolve, the true long-term impact on Punjab’s immigration landscape remains to be seen.
