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.