Palestinian Students Accepted by Canadian Universities Remain Stranded in Gaza
Visa Delays Block Entry to Canada
More than 130 Palestinian students who have received offers from Canadian universities remain unable to enter the country due to ongoing visa barriers and the lack of processing facilities in Gaza.
One of them is Meera Falyouna, a 26-year-old industrial engineering graduate from Gaza. She applied to a Canadian graduate program in December 2023 while living in a tent after being displaced by the war.
Studying Amid Conflict and Displacement
At the time of her application, Falyouna often lacked electricity and reliable internet access. She completed the process over several days, walking through damaged neighbourhoods to find a mobile signal.
Despite these challenges, she secured admission to a master’s program in industrial engineering at the University of Regina. The offer included funding linked to a research project and a supervisor ready to support her studies in Canada.
Repeated Deferrals and Limited Time
However, Falyouna remains unable to leave Gaza. Since receiving her acceptance in April 2024, she has postponed her admission three times. September 2026 now stands as her final chance to begin the program.
“I am still trapped in Gaza, facing displacement and extremely difficult conditions,” she said.
Biometrics Requirement Creates Barrier
The main obstacle is Canada’s biometric requirement for student visas. Falyouna says she cannot meet this condition because she cannot travel outside Gaza.
“They ask us to give biometrics, but we cannot leave,” she said. “The borders are closed, and we are trapped.”
As delays continue, students and advocates warn that many qualified Palestinians risk losing life-changing academic opportunities due to circumstances beyond their control.
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