Study in Canada

How to Apply for a Student Visa (Study Permit) to Canada

Canada is one of the world’s top destinations for international students, known for its high-quality education, safety, and post-graduation work opportunities. If you plan to study in Canada for more than six months, you must apply for a Study Permit (often referred to as a “student visa”).

This guide explains who needs a study permit, the step-by-step application process, required documents, and tips for approval.

1. Do You Need a Study Permit?

You need a Study Permit if:

  • You plan to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada for more than six months.

You may not need a study permit if:

  • Your course is 6 months or less and you can complete it within your stay.
  • You are a family member of foreign representatives or armed forces (special cases).

✅ Always check your school’s DLI status here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html

2. Key Steps to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit

Step 1 — Receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)

  • Apply and get accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
  • The school will send you a Letter of Acceptance — you’ll need it for your application.

Step 2 — Gather Required Documents

Commonly required:

  • Passport (valid for your full study period)
  • Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from your DLI
  • Proof of funds:
    • Tuition for first year + CAD $20,635 (living costs for 1 student per year; add more if bringing family)
  • Passport-sized photos
  • Immigration Medical Exam (if required)
  • Police clearance (if required)
  • Study plan / Statement of Purpose (explaining why you want to study in Canada)
  • English or French language test results (if requested)

💡 Some applicants may qualify for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) (faster processing) if they’re from eligible countries like India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, Morocco, Senegal.

Step 3 — Apply Online

Step 4 — Pay Fees

  • Study permit application fee: CAD $150
  • Biometrics fee: CAD $85 (if applicable)

Step 5 — Provide Biometrics

  • Most applicants must visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to give fingerprints and photo.

Step 6 — Medical Exam & Police Certificates

  • May be required depending on your country and program (e.g., healthcare-related studies).

Step 7 — Wait for Processing

  • Standard processing: 8–14 weeks (varies by country).
  • Student Direct Stream (SDS): ~20 calendar days if you qualify.

Step 8 — Get Your Port of Entry (POE) Letter

  • If approved, you’ll receive a POE Letter of Introduction by email.
  • Bring this letter and your passport to Canada.

Step 9 — Receive Your Study Permit on Arrival

  • Immigration officers will issue your physical Study Permit at the Canadian port of entry.

3. Proof of Funds Requirements (2025)

You must show you can pay for:

  • Tuition for the first year, plus:
  • Living expenses:
    • CAD $20,635 (single student per year)
    • CAD $4,000 (spouse)
    • CAD $3,000 (per child)
  • Return travel cost (usually ~CAD $2,000 extra shown in your funds).

Proof can include:

  • Bank statements (last 4 months)
  • GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate — SDS applicants must have at least CAD $20,635)
  • Education loan from a bank
  • Scholarship/financial aid proof
  • Letter of support from a parent/guardian

4. Student Direct Stream (SDS) — Faster Option

If you’re from countries like India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, Senegal, Morocco, you may qualify for 20-day processing if you:

  • Pay full first-year tuition upfront
  • Have a GIC of at least CAD $20,635
  • Take an IELTS Academic (6.0+) or TEF (French) test
  • Apply online and provide biometrics quickly

5. Fees (2025)

ItemFee
Study Permit ApplicationCAD $150
BiometricsCAD $85
Medical ExamCAD $100–250 (varies)
Police ClearanceVaries by country
Visa Application Centre (VAC) service fee~CAD $30–50

6. Work While You Study

  • Study permit holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during breaks (this may return to 20 hrs/week after 2025, check IRCC updates).
  • Some programs include co-op or internship placements — ensure your study permit includes this condition if needed.

7. After Graduation — Path to Stay Longer

  • Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if your DLI and program qualify (valid up to 3 years).
  • PGWP can help you gain Canadian experience and apply for Permanent Residency through Express Entry.

8. Tips for a Successful Application

  • Apply early: Start 4–6 months before your course begins.
  • Pay tuition early: Helps show financial stability and may be required for SDS.
  • Write a strong Study Plan: Explain why you chose Canada and how the program fits your career goals.
  • Show sufficient funds: More than the minimum is better for approval.
  • Check medical & police certificate needs: Save time by completing these early if required.
  • Avoid agents who promise guaranteed visas: Use the official IRCC site.

Quick Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
  • Tuition paid (recommended, required for SDS)
  • GIC or proof of funds ready
  • Passport valid for full study period
  • Study Permit application filed & biometrics done
  • Medical exam (if required) completed
  • Port of Entry (POE) letter received
  • Travel insurance & flight booked
  • Arrange housing in Canada (on-campus/off-campus)