Canada Student Visa
According to the latest information from IRCC, Canada has more than one million international students. This record number shows global aspirants still pursue the country amidst discussions on changing rules and regulations concerning international students.
Canada’s updated student visa regulations can be viewed positively or critically, depending on your course, goals, and financial situation. Before you set out for your dream adventure, educate yourself about student visa applications to Canada to make an informed decision. This blog is your guide for uncovering Canadian student visas to take action towards your academic dreams.
What is a student visa for Canada?
The Canada student visa is known as the study permit. The study permit is a document issued by the IRCC for foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
- A study permit is required for international students intending to pursue academic, vocational, or professional training programs that are longer than six months in duration.
- The study permit grants permission for the duration of the study program plus an additional 90 days. It may come with certain conditions, such as restrictions on full-time employment while studying.
- It is essential for prospective international students to obtain a study permit before commencing their studies in Canada.
Canada student visa fees & processing time
- Fees for a study permit in Canada – 150 CAD (110 USD or 9,200 INR)
- The average processing time for a study permit in Canada – 11 weeks.
Canada student visa latest news
Recent trends show a cut down of student visas issued due to the overflow of applications. With the introduction of a Provisional Attestation Letter (PAL), international students are tracked more conveniently to check their adherence to the rules and regulations.
- As of January 22, 2024, international students need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) to apply for a study permit from the province or territory of their study. Failure to submit a PAL will result in your application being returned with fees.
- The total number of accepted study permits increased by approximately 22.3% in 2023.
- The GIC amount has been doubled, making it 20,635 USD from 2024, which was 10,000 USD earlier.
SDS, CAQ and GIC in Canada
Canada Student Visa Requirements
To apply for a Canada student visa, one must fulfill the following requirements specified by the IRCC:
- Be admitted to a designated learning institution.
- Show proof of funds to pay your tuition fee, living expenses, and return travel expenses for you and accompanying members, if any
- No criminal records in the past. A police certificate is required in typical cases
- A health certificate after a medical examination
Also, provide proof that you will return to your home country after your study permit expires. You can elaborate on your family connection or future dreams in your home country.
Study Abroad Services
Documents checklist for a Canada student visa
Apart from the documents you submit at the time of admission to a designated learning institution, the following documents must be with you when you apply for a study permit in Canada:
- Letter of acceptance to a designated learning institution
- A valid passport
- Passport size photographs
- Provisional Attestation Letter (PAL) from your territory or province of study
- Proof of funds, such as an education loan sanction letter
- Medical certificate
How much is the minimum bank balance for a Canada student visa?
It is mandatory to provide proof of funds to support your stay in Canada. In addition to the tuition fees, you must have funds to cover your and your accompanying members’ living expenses. While the tuition fee can be case-specific and vary for each person, the living expenses are estimated as follows by the Canadian government:
| Persons in Canada | Funds, in addition to the tuition fee | Monthly requirement |
|---|---|---|
|
For a student |
20,635 USD |
1,720 USD |
|
For a family member |
8,000 USD |
666 USD |
|
For an additional family member |
6,000 USD |
500 USD |
Here’s a simple formula to calculate your final amount for a study permit:
Total Amount = Tuition + 20,635 USD + 8,000 USD (for spouse)
This will be the cost of living plus tuition fees, that is, the final amount for a study permit. The students submit a one-year fee receipt along with a visa application.
How to apply for a student visa in Canada?
You can make the Canada visa application online once you gather all the required documents. Reach out to Nomad Credit, your trusted education abroad consultancy, at no cost. Our counselor will guide you through the application process without leaving a doubt.
To summarize, check your student visa eligibility and requirements before you apply for a Canada student visa to navigate the process successfully. The latest updates must not be missed to improve your chances of approval. Check out the blog thoroughly and reach out to Nomad Credit, your global education partner, to kickstart your Canada study dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the bank balance required for a Canada student visa?
According to the latest information from official sources, you need at least 20,635 CAD in addition to your tuition fee to apply for a student visa. You may show proof of the amount with a fixed deposit certificate, education loan sanction letter, or other financial means
Does Canada accept PTE for a student visa?
Yes, PTE scores are accepted for a student visa in Canada. You must secure admission to a designated learning institution that accepts the PTE scores first to apply for a student visa
What PTE score is required for a Canada student visa?
Your designated learning institution determines the PTE score for your Canadian student visa application. Generally, a score of 60 – 65 is required for postgraduate programs and 50 – 60 for undergraduate programs
What is the Canada student visa processing time?
11 weeks is the average time to process a Canada student visa application in most cases. If your application takes more than that, it is advisable to contact your institution or immigration authority
Is it easy to get a student visa to study in Canada?
Getting a student visa for Canada can be competitive as there is a pool of applicants every year. You may get your application approved depending on your profile, course, and other factors
What is the validity of a student visa in Canada?
Your course years plus 90 days is the validity for your student visa in Canada. To stay for more than 90 days after completing your studies, you need to apply for a work permit
Is there any age limit to apply for a Canadian student visa?
Generally, no age limit is applicable when applying for a student visa in Canada
