Last Updated On 9 May 2025, 4:13 PM EDT (Toronto Time)
As geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, Canada may roll out special immigration measures to support Indian and Pakistani nationals residing in the country.
This move may come in response to growing concerns among the Canadian South Asian diaspora about safety, family reunification, and visa uncertainties triggered by deteriorating relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
Historically, Canada has been active in providing support to citizens from countries facing severe crises, and there is an expectation that similar initiatives may be considered in the current situation.
The Canadian government has already issued travel advisories for Pakistan and India.
The latest spike in India-Pakistan tensions stems from a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir in April 2025, which claimed 26 lives, primarily tourists. India has accused Pakistan of supporting the attackers, a claim that Islamabad vehemently denies. In retaliation, both nations have imposed severe diplomatic and economic measures, including visa cancellations and trade bans, further exacerbating the situation.
The closure of the Attari-Wagah border and restrictions on air travel have strained cross-border movement, leaving families separated and increasing anxiety in the diaspora community, which includes nearly 1.7 million people of Indian origin and a substantial Pakistani community.
In British Columbia, community leaders have expressed deep concern, calling for peace and efforts towards de-escalation, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Potential Immigration Measures For Indians and Pakistanis
While no official policy has been confirmed, speculation suggests that the government may consider various temporary measures to address the challenges faced by Indian and Pakistani nationals. Possible initiatives include:
- Visa Extension Programs: Temporary extensions for Indian and Pakistani citizens whose visitor, student, or work permits are expiring.
- This measure aims to provide stability for those unable to return home due to travel bans or safety concerns.
- Family Reunification Pathways: Expedited processing for family sponsorship applications to reunite separated families, especially those affected by sudden visa cancellations.
- This could include priority processing for spouses, children, and parents.
- Special Humanitarian Permits: Introduction of humanitarian permits for individuals facing risks due to the escalating conflict, particularly those with cross-border family ties or fears of persecution.
- Streamlined Asylum Processes: Enhanced support for Indian and Pakistani nationals seeking asylum, mainly those citing threats stemming from regional instability.
- Consular Support Expansion: Increased staffing at Canadian consulates to handle anticipated surges in visa and immigration inquiries, particularly after reductions in diplomatic presence in both countries.
With a significant number of students from India and Pakistan in Canada, many are particularly concerned about the uncertainties surrounding their visa situations. Over 400,000 Indian students alone are worried about their future.
Historical Precedents
Canada has a strong record of implementing special immigration measures during global crises, setting a framework for potential responses:
- 1971-1972: East Pakistani Refugees: During the Bangladesh Liberation War, Canada resettled over 5,000 East Pakistani (now Bangladeshi) refugees, providing expedited visas and humanitarian pathways.
- 1999: Kosovo Crisis: The Humanitarian Designated Classes Regulations welcomed over 7,000 Kosovar refugees through fast-tracked family reunification and temporary permits.
- 2015: Syrian Refugee Initiative: Over 25,000 Syrian refugees were resettled via government and private sponsorship programs, emphasizing family reunification and rapid processing of asylum cases.
- 2022: Ukraine Conflict: The Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) facilitated temporary residency for over 200,000 Ukrainians, including provisions for visa extensions and work permits.
- 2023: Sudanese Humanitarian Measures: In response to Sudan’s civil war, Canada initiated temporary measures such as fee waivers for Sudanese seeking visa extensions and expedited family sponsorships. By mid-2024, temporary status was granted to over 1,500 Sudanese individuals.
These instances illustrate Canada’s ability to adapt its immigration system to humanitarian needs, providing a template for potential measures tailored to the current situation.
Community Reactions and Concerns
The South Asian diaspora, particularly in British Columbia and Ontario, is watching developments closely, welcoming the possibility of supportive measures while remaining cautious.
“We’re all concerned about our families back home,” stated Haroon Khan, a director with the Pakistan-Canada Association in Vancouver. “Any relief regarding immigration worries would be appreciated, but we also want Canada to advocate for peace between India and Pakistan.”
Simran, a student from Punjab, expressed her worries: “I’m concerned about my study permit renewal. If tensions escalate, it could adversely affect my plans to stay and work in Canada.”
Leaders like Vinay Sharma from the Vedic Hindu Cultural Society of British Columbia stress unity among the communities. “We are one family here in Canada, regardless of our backgrounds. Our hope is that the government supports our communities while advocating for peace abroad,” he remarked.
Looking Ahead
As of now, the Canadian government has not confirmed any new policies or expressed intent to introduce these special immigration measures. Nonetheless, there is a sense of cautious optimism within the South Asian diaspora.
The proposed policies could provide much-needed relief for Indian and Pakistani nationals dealing with the aftereffects of ongoing tensions in their homelands. However, the success of these measures hinges on their swift implementation and broader initiatives to foster peace in South Asia.
Community members remain hopeful. “One day, peace will be restored in our homeland, and here in Canada, we will continue to build bridges,” said Jatinder Bhan, a Kashmiri Canadian, conveying the enduring spirit of resilience within the community.
Stay tuned for updates on Canadian immigration policies and the evolving geopolitical landscape between India and Pakistan.
