Steps to apply in CANADA for Student Visa

About the Process

What is a study permit?

The study permit is a document we issue that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. Make sure you have all the documents you need before you apply. You should apply before you travel to Canada.

Your study permit is not a visa. It doesn’t let you enter Canada. You may also need a  visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA). If we approve your study permit, we’ll issue one to you with your study permit.

Important Study Visa Requirements for Canada 

1. DLI Acceptance letter: You must have acceptance from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI). The university or institute you want to study in Canada must have a COVID-19 readiness plan approved by its province or territory that is on the approved list. 
2. Proof of funds: You have to prove that you have sufficient funds for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation expenses for yourself and a family member who accompanies them to Canada.
3. No Criminal record: You must have a clean criminal record to prove that you are a law-abiding citizen of your native country. The aspirants have to provide a police certification to prove that they are not a threat to Canada’s security.
4. Immigration Medical Examination (IME): You must also be in good health and not prove a risk to the natives of the maple country. You require a valid medical certificate from a recognized doctor taken one week before you begin your Visa Application.
5. Intention to leave: You need to prove to the immigration officer that you will leave the country once your education is complete.
6. English Language Proficiency Test (not mandatory, but recommended): IELTS score sheet with a score band of 6 for undergraduate courses and an overall band of 6.5 for post-graduate programs.
7. Statement of Purpose: A good SOP goes a long way and can strongly affect your chances of acceptance.

Process of Applying for a Student Permit:

Step 1: Apply for admission to a college/university

The first step to initiating the Canadian study visa process is getting approval of admission or an offer letter from a recognized educational institution. There are innumerable colleges and universities in Canada that offer a range of degrees and study programs for students.  

Step 2: Pay the fees

After getting an offer letter, the next step for you is paying the fees to the college or university. You can pay your fees through the International Wire Transfer. When the institution receives and processes your fee, you will get a receipt for the same. Save the receipt as will be required when you send your visa application.    

Step 3: Purchase GIC

The next step for a student is to buy the Guaranteed Investment Scheme or GIC. It is mandatory for each foreign student to have GIC to take care of the living expenses once they reach Canada. The amount of GIC is $10,200 which can be purchased from any participating bank. The bank deducts approximately $200 as their administrative charges, but it may vary from bank to bank. You will receive $2,000 immediately upon landing in Canada, and you will receive the rest of the $8,000 in 12 equal installments for your living expenses.

Step 4: Go through the medical examination

Now, you will have to go through a medical examination from a doctor recognized by Canada’s government. While the report of your medical examination will go directly to the immigration authorities, you will receive a receipt for it. The receipt will be submitted at the time of application.

Step 5: Apply for a visa

The next step here is to actually apply for a Canadian student visa & submit your Biometric to IRCC.

Step 6: Get your visa

In case your application gets approved, you will receive a notification from the Government of Canada requesting your passport. You can submit it in person or through VFS. After that, you will get a temporary resident visa and a letter of introduction.

Useful Links

Study Permit (Process):

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/apply.html

Visa file type for students (SDS and Non-SDS):

https://www.upgradabroad.com/articles/difference-between-sds-and-non-sds