Requirements for Canada Student Visa from India
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Aspiring students must adhere to the following requirements to complete a successful visa application.
- Acceptance letter from a learning institution in Canada.
- Proof of financial capability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
- A valid passport, recent photographs, and a completed application form.
- Medical examination and a police clearance certificate.
- Demonstrating your intent to leave Canada after completing your studies.
- Proficiency in English or French can be shown through language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
Canada is a great place to visit and one of the best countries to study in. It is a popular destination among Indians, with relatively easier access to citizenship and cheaper higher education opportunities. As per the Ministry of External Affairs, Canada saw 1,83,000 students from India in 2022. Also, the average pay of an entry-level job starts at 43,250 CAD per year, with the highest-paid individuals earning up to 59,500 CAD per year.
A Canada student visa is permission provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), allowing an international student to stay in Canada and attend a school or institution. International students planning to study in Canada for more than six months must obtain a student visa. This visa allows students to enter and stay in Canada throughout their studies.
It also grants them the opportunity to engage in academic activities, attend classes, and even work part-time to support their living expenses and tuition fees. After graduation, students with a visa can also stay and work in Canada for up to three years. Obtaining a student visa in Canada involves submitting the required documentation, demonstrating proficiency in the language, and showcasing financial capacity. The associated fees are reasonable, reflecting the value of Canada’s exceptional education. While the duration may vary, rest assured that the process proceeds smoothly, bringing you closer to the realisation of your academic aspirations in Canada.
Join the conversation on how to apply for a student permit in Canada!
Types of Visas in Canada for Indian Students
The choice between different types of visas in Canada for Indian students could differ according to the duration of their visit. If they are enrolled in a program that extends beyond six months, the study permit is valid for the duration of the program. The student can also work part-time while studying in Canada on a visa, provided they meet the qualifying requirements. The Canada student visa requirements from India are specific to Indian citizens and may not apply to NRIs.
S1 Visa
Purpose:
- Study permit issued by the Canadian Government.
- Required for studies in Canada lasting longer than six months.
Eligibility Criteria: International students planning to pursue academic programs at designated learning institutions in Canada.
Read more about applying for an SDS Visa from India!
SDS (Student Direct Stream)
Purpose:
- Streamlined application process for study permits.
- Designed for international students from select countries.
Eligible Countries:
- China, India, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philippines, Senegal, Vietnam.
SDS Canada Requirements:
- Evidence of acceptance from an approved educational institution.
- Proof of first-year tuition payment.
- Acquisition of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) for a specific sum.
- Fulfilment of language proficiency standards.
Non-SDS (Non-Student Direct Stream)
Scope:
- Broad-category visa covering temporary residence, work, and study opportunities globally.
Alternative Avenue:
- For students unable to qualify for the SDS visa.
Additional Documentation:
- Applicants are encouraged to submit extra supporting documents to strengthen their case.
- Opportunity for those who missed the SDS visa to pursue education in Canada with enhanced documentation.
It is crucial to remember that the guidelines and requirements for research permits can alter over time.
In a Nutshell
There are three main types of student visas available for Indian students pursuing education in Canada:
- S1 Visa: The S1 Visa is a Chinese visa category for foreign students studying in China.
- SDS Visa: The SDS (Student Direct Stream) Visa is a Canadian visa program that offers expedited processing to eligible international students from select countries.
- Non-SDS Visa: A Non-SDS Visa in the Canadian context typically refers to the standard study permit application process, which does not qualify for expedited processing under the SDS program.
Documents Required for Canada Student Visa
International students must submit documentation that satisfies Canada’s immigration criteria to be granted a student visa to study there. The documents required may vary depending on the student’s financial and educational situation. The following are the most typical documents required for a Canada student visa from India:
A. Valid Passport
Students from India must provide a valid passport to apply for a student visa. The passport must include personal information such as the student’s name, date of birth, nationality, and photograph in the designated size.
B. Academic Requirements
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution: This document is issued by an approved Canadian college, university, or other designated learning institution to indicate that the student has been accepted for admission. It includes personal information such as the student’s name, date of birth, nationality, program duration, etc.
Expert Tip: Some universities/colleges may request tuition payment or a deposit as part of the admission process to get your LOA. The processing fee for the Can-College Letter of Acceptance and Admission Registration ranges from CAD 250 to CAD 500. It’s important to know that this fee is non-refundable in case of a visa rejection.
- Educational Transcripts and Certificates: Official transcripts and certificates from the student’s previous educational institution/s should be provided.
- Evidence of Language Proficiency: To show that they are proficient in English or French, international students must submit results from an accepted language test such as IELTS, TOEFL, etc. The TOEFL and IELTS requirements for a Canada student visa are as follows:
| Test Type | Type of Programme | Test Score |
| IELTS | Undergraduate courses | Minimum score of 5.5 in each band. Overall score of 6.0 |
| IELTS | Postgraduate courses | Minimum score of 6.5 in each band. Overall score of 5.5-6.0 (depending on the institution) |
| TOEFL | Undergraduate courses | Minimum score of 80-100 (depending on the institution) |
| TOEFL | Postgraduate courses | Minimum score of 90-100 (depending on educational institution) |
| Duo Lingo | Undergraduate courses | Minimum score of 115-125 (depending on the educational institution) |
| Duo Lingo | Postgraduate courses | Minimum score of 115-125 (depending on the educational institution) |
TOEFL iBT has been approved as an official test for immigrants. Read More.
C. Financial Requirements
- Proof of Financial Support: Students must provide proof of Canadian government approved financial evidence to support for themselves and any accompanying dependents demonstrating their financial capability. The funds must be sufficient to cover tuition, living expenses, books, and supplies. Acceptable proofs include:
- Bank statements
- Scholarship letters or sponsorship documents
- If you are an entrepreneur, financial statements (prepared by an independent chartered accountant) for the business for the past two fiscal years
- Any proof of investment (including investments in Gold) in your country or abroad
- If you’re opting for the Student Direct Stream (SDS), it’s essential to possess a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000 (or $11,000 for studies in Quebec) and submit it along with your study permit application.
- Proof of Payment for the Application Fee: Along with the Canada visa fees for Indian students, to be able to submit a student visa application, the student must pay an application fee and provide proof of payment of the fee before their visa application can be processed.
The Canadian student visa fee is CAD 150. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid in full at the time of application. Applicants can pay the fee by credit card, debit card, or bank transfer. It is important to note that the fee does not include the biometric fee, which is CAD 85 for most applicants. The Canadian student visa fee in Indian Rupees is around INR 10,000.Note: The fees may be higher for applicants studying in certain fields, such as medicine, engineering, or business.
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is a financial instrument required mandatorily for Indian students applying for an SDS visa.
The required deposit for this account is predetermined, and students earn monthly interest on this amount. It is essentially a specified amount of CAD 10,000 that the student deposits into a Canadian financial institution, and this amount is intended to cover living expenses for the first year of their studies in Canada. The interest rate on the GIC remains constant unless you opt for one with variable interest, and typically, it cannot be redeemed or cashed out.
Typically, the GIC amount is released to the student in instalments over a 12-month period, helping them cover expenses such as accommodation, food, and other living costs. This financial arrangement provides a level of assurance to Canadian authorities about the student’s ability to meet their basic needs while pursuing education in Canada. It is important for students to be aware of and fulfil this requirement as part of the overall process of obtaining a Canadian student visa.
Learn about the financial institutes that offer eligible SDS GICs.
Study in Canada with ease. Get your student forex card today and manage your finances effortlessly!
D. Medical Examination Records
Depending on the duration of your study program, you may be required to undergo a medical examination conducted by a physician approved by the Canadian government to ensure you meet health requirements. Additionally, you might need to obtain a police clearance certificate to demonstrate your good character and absence of a criminal record.
In a Nutshell
The following are the documents required for a Canada Student Visa:
- Valid Passport
- Letter of Acceptance
- Educational Transcripts
- Evidence of Language Proficiency
- Proof of Financial Support
- Proof of Payment for the Application Fee
- Medical Examination Records
Learn more about accommodations in Canada for Indian students!
Note: We would like to emphasise the critical importance of submitting truthful and genuine documents when applying for a visa. False or fraudulent documentation can lead to severe consequences, including future permanent disqualification or bans from entering a particular country.
Step-by-Step: Canada Student Visa Application Process
To successfully apply for a Canada student visa, it is vital to understand the requirements and follow the application process diligently.
Step 1:
The first step to applying for a student visa to Canada is to secure admission to a recognised Canadian educational institution. Once you receive an acceptance letter, you can begin the visa application process.
Step 2:
Gather all the necessary documents, including your passport, proof of financial support, and a letter of acceptance from your chosen institution. These documents are vital when you apply for a student visa to Canada.
Step 3:
Next, obtain the appropriate application form from the official Canadian government website and complete all sections thoroughly with accurate and up-to-date information, ensuring you specify your intention to study in Canada and the course duration.
Step 4:
After completing the application form, you are required to pay the Canada student visa fees. The fee varies depending on your country of residence, so check the current fee amount before proceeding. The fee for a Canadian student visa for Indians is 150 CAD (approximately INR 9,000).
Step 5:
Once the student Canada visa cost is paid, you can submit your application along with the supporting documents to the designated Canadian visa office or embassy.
Step 6:
One way to avoid visa rejection is to closely monitor your application’s progress. Processing times can vary, so be patient and contact the visa office or embassy for any updates or additional information they may require.
In conclusion, applying for a student visa to Canada involves careful preparation and adherence to the application process. By following the guidelines, gathering the necessary documents, and submitting your application correctly, you can increase your chances of obtaining a student visa and embarking on an enriching educational journey in Canada.
Apply for your student visa after securing your spot in your dream Canadian university!
Visa Approval and Beyond: Can you get a work permit after studying in Canada?
After completing your studies in Canada, as an international student, you can apply for a work permit through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. The PGWP is a work permit in Canada that allows international students who have graduated from a recognised institution in Canada to work in the country for up to three years. Obtaining a PGWP is a great opportunity for international students to gain Canadian work experience and become more competitive in the job market.
To participate in the PGWP program, international students must have:
- Completed at least eight months of full-time study in a program leading to a degree, diploma or certificate at a designated Canadian institution.
- Students must have completed their program and have a valid study permit when applying for the PGWP.
- Those who meet the eligibility criteria can then submit a PGWP application with supporting documents such as a valid passport and study permit.
International students can also use the PGWP to explore different parts of the country and better understand the culture and lifestyle. It is important to note that the PGWP does not guarantee a job, and international students must still apply for their major. However, adding PGWP to your CV can be helpful when applying for a job in Canada.
Learn more about the cost of living for Indian students in Canada!
In a Nutshell
After completing studies in Canada, you can apply for a work permit through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). International students can study for up to three years. To avail this permit students must:
- Complete at least eight months of full-time study in a program leading to a degree, diploma or certificate at a Canadian institution.
- Have completed their program
- Have a valid study permit
- Submit supporting documents such as a valid passport and study permit
Key Takeaways
- To successfully obtain a study permit, applicants must understand the requirements for a Canada student visa, the application process, and fees.
- Indian students must mandatorily deposit CAD 10,000 in a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) for an SDS visa in Canada, covering first-year living expenses.
- In addition, applicants must demonstrate language proficiency by submitting IELTS scores or other acceptable proof of language proficiency.
- By understanding and meeting these requirements, international students can confidently embark on their educational journey in Canada, knowing they have taken the necessary steps for a successful student visa application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most applicants will need to demonstrate English or French proficiency; the most common way to do this is to submit IELTS scores. A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 is required, with no score below 5.5. Other language proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL, are also accepted for certain applicants.
Having a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) account is mandatory for any Indian student planning to pursue their studies in Canada. This account assures the Canadian government that you possess sufficient funds to meet their living expenses throughout the academic year. Moreover, having a GIC account ensures a more expeditious processing of both study permits and Canadian visas.
Yes, applicants with educational deficiencies may still be eligible for a Canadian student visa. However, they may need to submit additional documents to show the reasons for the gap.
Yes, a student can apply for an extension of their study permit in Canada if their studies are longer than the original validity period of the study permit.
The processing time for a Canadian student visa application varies but usually takes up to 12 weeks.
