1M Indians in Canada Facing Loss of Legal Status by 2026

Canada is moving towards a significant immigration catastrophe. According to the latest figures, almost 1 million Indians living in Canada would lose their legal status by 2026 as a result of the board-wide visa expiries. This has created a lot of situations concerning the Indian visa in Canada, particularly among the students and work permit holders whose permits are drawing close to expiration.

Detecting the problem at the very beginning is the most critical step to take in order not to lose one’s legal status.

What is the Cause of Canada Visas Expiring in 2026?

The main driver behind the increase in the number of Canada visa expiry 2026 cases is as follows:

A large number of temporary visas issuance post-COVID pandemic
Limited extensions under new regulations
Stricter immigration policy changes in Canada by 2026
Longer PR processing timelines

A significant number of Indians entered Canada with study and work permits that were tied to time and are now about to end their twenty-four-month period simultaneously.

Who Is the Most Affected?

Indian Students in Canada

Study permits that are about to expire.
Few Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) options
Lengthy extension application process

This indirectly affects students’ legal status in Canada.

Holders of Indian Work Permits

Employer-specific permits expiring
Fewer LMIA approvals
No renewals automatically

This is becoming a big concern for Indians under the Canada work permit expiry situation.

Key Visa Categories at Risk

Visa Type	Risk Level	Common Issues
Study Permit	High	PGWP refusal, late extensions
Work Permit	Very High	LMIA delays, job loss
Visitor Visa	Medium	No pathway to work or PR
PGWP	High	One-time issuance, expiry

Consequences of Losing Legal Status

Not taking action before the visa expiration date can lead to:

Loss of the right to work or study
Ineligibility for PR
Removal orders
Future refusals of visa applications

These consequences mean that early planning is a must in the changes to the Canada immigration policy 2026.

How Indians in Canada Can Protect Their Status

✔ Apply for extensions well in advance

✔ Explore PR pathways early

✔ Consider alternate visa categories

✔ Avoid gaps between permits

Professional guidance is strongly advised for the management of complex Indian visa issues in Canada.

Get Professional Help with Abhinav Immigration Services

If you are concerned about the expiry of the Canada visa in 2026, do not hesitate until it is too late. Abhinav Immigration Services offers professional assistance for students, workers, and families — from visa extensions and status restoration to PR planning. Our knowledgeable consultants are always aware of every change in Canada’s immigration policy in 2026, allowing you to secure your future.

Contact our experts now and protect your legal status in Canada.