Iranian student fights Canadian security system for right to study
A foreign graduate student in Montreal faced immigration obstacles.
An Iranian student is fighting for the right to study in Montreal after being denied study permit due to suspected threats to Canadian security. Reza Jahantigh, a graduate student from a computer science course, began studying online from Iran in 2020, but requires in-person attendance to complete his studies. His lawyer Samin Mortazavi denies the threat allegations, saying Jahantigh is a normal student.
The student has already asked the Federal Court to intervene. On the eve of the trial, a Canadian immigration officer in Ankara pointed to a possible threat, citing Jahantig's service in the Iranian armed forces and his work for a company that the officer believed could be linked to research in sensitive areas.
Mortazavi argues that military service was required and that Jahantigh's job at a private company involved video game development, not projects related to the Iranian government. However, the department reiterated its concerns and rejected the application.
Jahantigh's situation reflects Canada's concerns about foreign students — especially as national security protections have been strengthened. Earlier, the Federal Court upheld a similar decision against a Chinese student who was also suspected of possible espionage. Canada fears that hostile countries could use students to advance their strategic interests and intelligence activities.
