India’s trafficking claims against Canadian colleges reveal ‘exploited’ immigration system, experts say

An investigation by Indian officials has uncovered a disturbing scheme allegedly involving dozens of Canadian colleges and universities that may be linked to the illegal ferrying of students across the Canada-U.S. border. The investigation reveals what some experts are calling a “staggering” exploitation of holes in the immigration system.

According to reports, the Indian Enforcement Directorate has uncovered evidence of human trafficking involving two entities in Mumbai. The investigation was sparked by the tragic deaths of the Patel family, who froze to death while attempting to cross the border from Manitoba into Minnesota in harsh weather conditions.

The Enforcement Directorate’s investigation found that approximately 25,000 students were referred by one entity, with over 10,000 students referred by another entity to various colleges outside India each year. These students were allegedly admitted to Canadian colleges and universities with the intention of applying for student visas. However, instead of attending the institutions, they would illegally cross the border from Canada into the U.S. The fees received by the Canadian schools were then remitted back to the individuals’ accounts.

The Enforcement Directorate revealed that around 112 colleges in Canada had entered into an agreement with one entity, while more than 150 colleges were involved with another entity. The allegations have not been proven in court, and the Canadian colleges allegedly involved have not been identified by India.

In response to the allegations, the RCMP has reached out to India to seek additional information about the investigations. However, Colleges and Institutes Canada, a national advocacy organization for Canada’s post-secondary education network, stated that they had no details on the colleges reportedly involved in the allegations.

The process of issuing study permit applications and acceptance is managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the student applicant, and the post-secondary institution. The IRCC has focused on strengthening the integrity of the international student program since 2023, introducing measures such as a cap on enrolment levels at Designated Learning Institutions and increased financial requirements for study permit applicants.

Experts have raised concerns about the lack of oversight in Canada’s immigration system, with some calling it “deeply concerning and problematic.” Kelly Sundberg, a former Canada Border Services Agency officer and criminology professor, noted that the system is being exploited by transnational criminals due to a lack of personnel and technology for effective screening.

While some believe that colleges and universities should have been aware of the recruitment issues with international students, others argue that many of the schools involved in the alleged scheme are “fly-by-night” private colleges. These institutions may not have the necessary infrastructure or curriculum to provide legitimate education.

Overall, the allegations highlight the importance of stricter border control measures and oversight in Canada’s immigration system. It remains to be seen how authorities will address these concerning revelations and ensure the integrity of the international student program.