16 Nov How to Apply for Canada Student Visa

Every year, over hundreds of thousands international students apply for Canada student visa to study at reputed Canadian universities and pursue courses in different disciplines. In addition to being home to some of the best universities of the world, Canada also provides numerous possibilities and a vibrant culture.

So many students want to study in Canada and have a bright future. Are you one of them but do you know not how to apply for Canada student visa, also known as a Canadian study permit? Don’t worry because in this blog we will walk you through every step that is involved in the visa application for Canada. 

 

Student Visa Canada Requirements 

Before you apply for a study permit, you will need: 

• A proof of acceptance like acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI)

• A valid passport/ travel document for identity proof 
• A letter of explanation that will help the visa officer understand why you want to study in Canada 
• Proof confirming you have no criminal record. 
• Your medical records showing that you are in good health 
• Proof that you can support yourself, and any family members who accompanies you, while you’re in Canada 

To prove that you are capable of financially support yourself and any accompanying family members, you may be asked to provide: 

• Details of a Canadian bank account in your name, if money has been transferred to Canada 
• Evidence of a student or education loan taken from a financial institution 

• Bank statements 
• Proof of payment of tuition and accommodation fees 
• A letter of the person/institution providing your funding 
• Proof of funding paid from within Canada (if applicant has a scholarship or are part of a Canadian-funded educational program)

Some common documents that you will need for Canada student visa are: 

• Valid Passport 
• Two passport size photographs  
• Attested copies of 10th, 12th and Degree certificates  

• Statement of Purpose 
• Certificates of extracurricular achievements  
• Proof of payment 

How to Apply for Canada Student Visa

Generally, you must apply for a study permit before you come to Canada. Some people can apply for a study permit from within Canada. In some cases, you can apply when you arrive in Canada at the port of entry. You just need to understand which option is available to you.

To get student visa, you can: 

• Apply online  
• Apply on paper

COVID-19 has caused service disruptions due to which the Citizen and Immigration (CIC) authorities are experiencing difficulties receiving and processing applications submitted by mail or in person at VACs (Visa application centres). So, it is suggested that you apply online only. 

Indian students applying to universities and colleges in Canada can now get the study permit faster through the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program launched by the Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada. Its fee starts from 150 CAD and the processing takes usually around 20 calendar days. However, if you choose to apply through SDS, you may need certain additional documents. 

Note: All the students coming to Canada after October 20, 2020 are recommended to check that their DLI is on the list of DLIs with approved COVID-19 readiness plans. You can check the list here. 

Steps to Apply Online  

 You can apply online for your study permit by following these setps:

1. Make sure you have scanned copies of your documents   
2. Create your online account on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website 
3. Read instructions carefully and fill-in your student permit application 
4. Pay your fees (processing fees for you and anyone you include on your application and biometrics fee) 
5. Submit your application and check your status regularly 

You may need to pay for medical exams, police certificates, language testing, and services at a Visa Application Centre, if you use one. But this all depends on your situation. You will make this payment directly to the third party. 

Benefits of Applying Online: 

• Your application will reach CIC authorities instantly as mail delivery time is eliminated  
• The application processing time is reduced 
• It helps you ensure your application as an incomplete request is not accepted online  
• You can submit your other required documents quickly, as and when required  
• You will get updates on the status of your application directly in your online account 

After You Apply for Canada Student Visa 

Once you have successfully applied for study permit, you will need to give biometrics. After you make payment of the biometrics fee, you will get a letter that says you need to give your biometrics. The letter will give you information about how and where to give your biometrics. Once you complete this process your study permit application will process further. 

Conclusion

We informed you in details how you can apply for Canadian student visa. It may take up to 90 days to process your visa application. So, relax and wait for your student visa.