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A Student Visa for Canada
Canada is a popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education, diverse cultural experiences, and numerous post-graduation opportunities. To study in Canada, most international students need to obtain a student visa, officially known as a study permit. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.
Understanding the Study Permit
A study permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It’s important to note that a study permit is not a visa; you may also need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a study permit, you must:
Have a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Obtain a letter of acceptance from a DLI in Canada.
Proof of Financial Support
Show that you have enough funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
No Criminal
Record
Provide a police certificate if required.
Good Health
Complete a medical exam if needed.
Ties to Home
Country
Convince the immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies.
Applying for a Study Permit
Gather Necessary Documents
You will need the following documents to apply for a study permit:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Letter of acceptance from a DLI
- Proof of financial support
- Passport-sized photographs
- Letter of explanation
- Certificate d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) if you plan to study in Quebec
Apply Online or on Paper
You can apply for a study permit online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, or on paper. The online application process is generally faster and more convenient.
Pay the Application Fee
The application fee for a study permit is CAD 150. You may also need to pay a biometric fee if biometrics are required.
Provide Biometrics
Depending on your country of origin, you may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at a designated visa application center.
Attend an Interview (if required)
In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview at the Canadian embassy or consulate.
Processing Time
The processing time for a study permit varies by country. It is recommended to apply at least four to six months before your intended start date.
After Receiving Your Study Permit
Once your study permit is approved, you will receive a port of entry (POE) letter of introduction. You must present this letter along with your visa (if required) when you arrive in Canada. The study permit will be issued to you at the port of entry.
Working While Studying
As an international student, you are allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks without a separate work permit. This provides an excellent opportunity to gain Canadian work experience and earn extra money.
Post-Graduation Opportunities
Upon completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing you to work in Canada for up to three years. This experience can be valuable if you plan to apply for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Start early. It takes months to receive your study permit
The Canadian government says it may take up to 13 weeks for your study permit application to be processed. So, make sure to account for the waiting time and start your application process four to six months before your departure!
The processing time for your visa depends on many things. Such factors are the type of application submitted (online or on paper), if you sent all the required documents, how easily it is for them to verify your information, or how long it takes you to answer any requests on on their side.
If you don’t want to risk a long waiting period, you can apply through the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which is processed within 20 calendar days. You are eligible for this stream if you are from one of the following countries:
Antigua and Barbuda
Costa Rica
Peru
Brazil
India
Philippines
Senegal
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
China
Morocco
Colombia
Pakistan
Vietnam
Trinidad and Tobago
Prove your of English proficiency
You are not required to provide proof of your English skills while applying for a study permit through the regular stream. However, Canadian universities will require you to prove your proficiency in English. If you have previously obtained a degree from an English-speaking country, you may be exempt from this condition.
If you come from a non-English-speaking country, you must submit a certificate from an accepted language proficiency test. Each university and programme requires different minimum scores depending on the test, so check your programme page before deciding which test to take.
IELTS Academic
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Cambridge C1 Advanced
CAEL
Embarking on a journey to study in Canada is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities. Obtaining a student visa for Canada is a multi-step process that requires careful preparation and adherence to the guidelines set by the Canadian government. By following this guide, you can enhance your chances of securing a study permit and embark on an enriching educational journey in Canada. For more detailed information and personalized assistance, feel free to contact our team at Trivup.
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