Overview

A Canadian Student Visa, also known as a Study Permit, allows international students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada. This permit is essential for most academic, vocational, or professional training programs longer than 6 months.

Key Features

• Visa Type: Study Permit (Temporary Resident Visa may also be required)
• Eligibility: Acceptance into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
• Processing Time: Typically 4-12 weeks, depending on the applicant’s country of residence.
• Validity: Usually matches the duration of the study program plus 90 days.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Acceptance Letter:
   • Must have a valid letter of acceptance from a DLI in Canada.
2. Proof of Financial Support:
   • Sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
3. Clean Background:
   • Provide police clearance certificates if required.
4. Health Check:
   • Pass a medical examination if needed.
5. Intent to Leave:
   • Demonstrate intent to leave Canada after completing the studies.

Application Process

1. Step 1: Acceptance into a DLI
   • Apply to and receive a letter of acceptance from a recognized DLI.
2. Step 2: Gather Documents
   • Required documents include:
     • Passport
     • Letter of acceptance
     • Proof of financial support
     • Language proficiency test (if applicable)
     • Medical exam results (if required)
3. Step 3: Apply for a Study Permit
   • Submit the application online or at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).
4. Step 4: Biometrics and Interview
   • Provide biometrics and attend an interview if requested.
5. Step 5: Wait for Decision
   • The visa office will process your application and notify you of the decision.
6. Step 6: Travel to Canada
   • Upon approval, bring your Letter of Introduction and relevant documents to the Canadian port of entry to receive your Study Permit.

Documents Required

1. Essential Documents:
   • Valid passport
   • Letter of acceptance from a DLI
   • Proof of sufficient funds
   • Passport-size photos
2. Optional (If Applicable):
   • Police clearance certificate
   • Medical examination results
   • Proof of English/French proficiency

Financial Requirements (2024)

Advantages of a Canadian Student Visa

1. High-Quality Education:
   • Access to world-class education and globally recognized degrees.
2. Work While Studying:
   • Students can work up to 20 hours/week during terms and full-time during breaks.
3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
   • Eligible graduates can stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years.
4. Path to Permanent Residency:
   • Gain points for Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
5. Family Accompaniment:
   • Spouses can get an open work permit, and children can study in Canada.
6. Diverse Opportunities:
   • Exposure to a multicultural environment and networking opportunities.

Processing Time

• General: 4-12 weeks.
• Student Direct Stream (SDS):
  • Available for residents of certain countries.
  • Faster processing (20 days).