Dozens of Chinese graduate students are raising concerns over delays in their study permit applications, citing discrimination by the Canadian government. These delays have hindered their ability to commence their advanced studies at Canadian universities. Yixin Cheng, a 27-year-old prospective PhD student at UBC from Hangzhao, China, expressed the significant impact these delays have had on his life. Along with 24 other students, Cheng has taken legal action against Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for what they perceive as unjust delays in the security screening phase of their applications.
The affected students, accepted into STEM graduate programs at universities like UBC, McGill, and the University of Waterloo, found themselves still in China at the start of the new school year due to the ongoing delays. Cheng, who applied for his study permit in May 2024, had resigned from a lucrative job in anticipation of starting his studies last fall. Despite IRCC’s website indicating a standard processing time of four weeks for Chinese students, Cheng highlighted the financial toll these delays have taken, estimating a loss of approximately $170,000 in annual salary.
Similarly, Li Zhen left his job at Microsoft to pursue a PhD in computer science at Polytechnique Montréal, expressing concerns about financial responsibilities like rent and medical insurance while waiting for his study permit. The delays have not only impacted Zhen’s mental health but also created uncertainty about his academic and financial future.
The students’ lawyer, Vakkas Bilsin, emphasized the troubling similarities among the cases, leading him to believe there may be underlying issues at play. Despite IRCC’s reassurance of fair immigration procedures, the lack of transparency and prolonged delays have left the students frustrated and anxious. The professors of some of these students have also voiced concerns about the adverse effects of these delays on academic progress and mental well-being.
Former CSIS director, Ward Elcock, acknowledged the necessity of thorough security checks for STEM students but also recognized the students’ right to voice their concerns. While acknowledging the need for vigilance in security screenings, Elcock highlighted the students’ frustration and emphasized the importance of balancing security measures with timely processing to minimize the impact on students’ lives.
The students remain hopeful for a swift resolution to their applications, as they navigate the uncertainties surrounding their academic pursuits, financial stability, and mental well-being during this prolonged waiting period.
