Shattered Dreams: How Canada’s New Visa Rules Are Impacting Punjab’s Aspirations

The streets of Amritsar, once bustling with the hopes of young Punjabis aspiring to study in Canada, now carry a weight of uncertainty. Known for its strong ties to the Punjabi diaspora in Canada, the city has long been a hub for those seeking opportunities abroad. But those dreams are fading as new Canadian immigration policies take hold, leaving many families struggling under financial pressure.

In December 2023, the Canadian government implemented a significant increase in the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) required for international student visas, doubling the amount from $10,000 to $20,635. This change, coupled with other measures aimed at controlling the flow of foreign students, has hit aspiring students and their families hard, particularly in Punjab.

For 22-year-old engineering student Dhandeep Singh, the policy change has been devastating. His dream of studying in Canada, like so many others from his community, has been derailed. Singh’s family, after years of sacrifices and planning, now finds itself unable to meet the new financial requirements. “Our budget doesn’t meet the new rules, making it clear that I can’t go to Canada,” he laments.  =  

Singh is not alone. Thousands of middle-class Punjabi families have been forced to reconsider their plans, with many advising their children to pursue local opportunities or shift their focus to other countries. But the impact of these changes goes beyond individual aspirations. The financial burden on families has led to widespread borrowing, asset sales, and even land depletion, creating long-term economic strain.

The migration of Punjabis to Canada has deep roots, with ties dating back to the early 20th century. Today, more than 278,000 Indians, many from Punjab, are pursuing studies in Canada, drawn by the promise of better educational and job prospects. However, recent economic challenges in Canada, including inflation and a housing crisis, have prompted the government to tighten immigration policies, leaving students from Punjab in a difficult position.

Prabhjot Singh, 25, who had planned to follow in his family’s footsteps by moving to Canada, is now considering other countries. He understands the need for financial stability but believes the new policy will severely limit opportunities for students like him. “It’s disheartening. Middle-class families can’t bear this burden.”

For women like Harmeet Kaur, the stakes are even higher. Kaur, 24, dreams of pursuing a master’s degree in Canada, where she believes she will find greater freedom and safety than in Punjab. “Canada offers equality and inclusion that we don’t have here,” she explains. But with the new financial requirements, she, too, may have to reconsider her plans.

The ripple effects of Canada’s policy shift are being felt not just by students but also by businesses that depend on international education. Immigration consultants in Punjab have seen a sharp decline in applications, with many fearing for their livelihoods.

Experts predict that this financial strain could lead to social unrest and deeper economic challenges in Punjab. Shalini Sharma, a sociologist from Ludhiana, warns that the pressure on families to sell assets or borrow money will only worsen rural poverty. “We’re already seeing the effects. The youth feel disillusioned and stuck, which could have dangerous consequences for our society.”

While the Canadian government defends the policy as necessary for ensuring students’ financial stability, the impact on Punjab’s youth has been profound. The dreams of a better life in Canada, once so closely within reach, are slipping away for many.

Despite the obstacles, students like Dhandeep, Prabhjot, and Harmeet remain determined to find a way forward. But for now, the future remains uncertain, and the hope of a Canadian dream seems further away than ever.