Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students who want to pursue higher education abroad. To study in Canada, you will need to apply for a Canada student visa, also known as a study permit. This is a document that allows you to enter and stay in Canada as a student for the duration of your program and gives you certain benefits, such as being able to work part-time on or off-campus, apply for a post-graduation work permit, and bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children with you.
However, getting a study permit is not an easy process. You will need to meet certain Canada student visa eligibility criteria and requirements, submit various documents, pay fees, and wait for processing times.
Canada Student Visa Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Canada student visa eligibility and permit you must fulfill the following conditions:
- Have a valid acceptance letter from a DLI (Designated Learning Institution) with this information:
- An official letterhead of the school.
- The degree and program you will obtain.
- The amount of tuition fees you must pay.
- The expected start and end dates of your program.
- The deadline to register for your program.
- Prove that you have enough funds to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses and make arrangements for the transportation expenses of yourself and any accompanying family members to Canada, as well as their return journey. You might be asked to demonstrate proof of funds in the form of:
- Bank statements covering the preceding four months or furnish a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) obtained from a participating financial institution in Canada.
- Proof of obtaining an educational loan from a bank (if you have taken a loan).
- Proof of payment of tuition and accommodation fees (if you have already paid them).
- A letter from the person or institution providing you with money (if you have a sponsor).
You will also be required to pay the fees:
- Must not have a criminal record and obtain a police certificate if necessary.
- Be in good health condition and undergo a medical examination (if required).
- Prove to an immigration officer that you have plans to depart from Canada upon the expiration of your study permit. You can show proof of ties to your home country, such as:
- Family ties
- Property ownership
- Employment prospects
- Financial assets
- Travel history
Note: If you’re decided to move to Australia, check the eligibility requirements for the student visa Australia and prepare the necessary documents and evidence to support your application.
Canada Study Visa Requirements
To apply for a Canada student visa, you will need to meet the Canada study visa requirements and provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- A passport-sized photo
- An acceptance letter from a DLI
- Proof of funds
- A police certificate (if required)
- A medical exam report (if required)
- A letter of explanation (optional)
You will also be required to pay the fees:
- A study or student permit fee of CAD 150
- A biometrics fee of CAD 85 (if required)
- A visa fee of CAD 100 (if required)
You can choose between two options to apply for a Canada student visa: online or paper application. Online application is faster, easier, and more secure than paper application. Paper application is more suitable if you do not have access to the Internet or if an online application is not available in your country.
The processing times for your application depend on various factors, such as the volume of applications received by the visa office, the completeness and accuracy of your application, the verification of your documents, and the time it takes for you to respond to any requests or questions from the visa office. The average processing time for a study permit application is 8 weeks, but it can vary depending on your country of residence.
For any inquiries regarding Canada student visa eligibility, contact our Study Abroad Expert by calling 8595338595 or emailing web@studyabroadexpert.com.
