Following the discontinuation of the SDS visa programme, students from all 14 countries, including India, will have to undergo more lengthy visa processes.

The revised visa policy could mean a shorter duration of stay and selective entry into Canada; visitors whose visas are nearing expiration now need to rethink their plans for further stay.

The allegations were first reported by The Washington Post after Canada's Deputy Foreign Minister, David Morrison, confirmed Mr Shah's alleged role in a media leak to the Post.

A per-country cap is meant to prevent the over-representation of one or a handful of very populous countries in Canada.

In a huge setback for Indian hopefuls, Canada is "granting 35% fewer international student permits this year."

Foreign applicants must prove they have a bank balance of at least 20,000 Canadian dollars, more than twice the earlier required amount, to qualify for Canadian study permits.

Starting in September, international students in Canada can work off-campus for up to 24 hours a week, an increase from the current 20 hours.