Saudi Arab and Canada relations. Any effect on study permits?

[muhammad.rumais]

If you dont already know, there have been some problem between these 2 countries. The title says it all. What do you guys think? I have heard they are not issuing visas from here anymore. What should the expatriates (People residing in Saudi Arabia on Iqama) do?

Heres a simple example. I have been living here since 2007 and completed my high school just recently. If I am to apply online for a study permit, should I put my residence country as Pakistan? While my qualifications and sponsors (Dad) bank account clearly reflect that I live in Saudi Arabia. Going to Pakistan and applying paper-based is an expensive option which most of us would like to avoid.


Many classmates of mine are stuck in the same situation.

 

[jasz_blr]

You are rowing your boat in difficult times.

Ideally, the visa officer would expect student to return to their home country after finishing studies in Canada. In your case, while applying for study permit how are you going to convince visa officer on this point?

Since, you recently completed high school, so better do Bachelors in your home country and later apply for Masters in Canada. This will make your application strong and save a lot of money as well.

 

[bongoman]

Canada has not taken any action against Saudi students it is only the Saudi government that has taken some action regarding gov scholarships so you should not expect any extra problems because of these issues.

 

[Akelu]

The recent events shouldn't have any effect on non-Saudis.
I applied for a study permit here and got accepted 6 days ago. (Palestinian with a Lebanese travel document)

 

[muhammad.rumais]

You are rowing your boat in difficult times.

Ideally, the visa officer would expect student to return to their home country after finishing studies in Canada. In your case, while applying for study permit how are you going to convince visa officer on this point?

Since, you recently completed high school, so better do Bachelors in your home country and later apply for Masters in Canada. This will make your application strong and save a lot of money as well.

I very much appreciate the advice. I have everything ready at this point (Jan Acceptance Letter, IELTS etc..) and I am just waiting for the right moment to apply for the visa.