Applications for a student visa for Canada have increased manifold, particularly in the present environment where the country is one of the most popular choices for higher education. It is important to have a proper understanding of the Canada student visa process if you are an aspiring student. Let us discuss the process in detail.
Student Visa for Canada – Necessary Documentation:
The first thing on your checklist should be having all the necessary documentation ready. The documents needed to obtain your student visa for Canada from India are.
a. Passport-
One of the biggest Canadian student visa requirements for Indian students is a valid passport, as you cannot fly out of the country without this document. It also serves as your identification document. The passport's validity period should comfortably cover the intended period of residence in the country.
b. Admission Proof -
You cannot apply for a student permit unless a university or college has accepted you. Also, the institute must be recognized as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). You will require an official letter of acceptance from the DLI. The immigration department has a list of recognized DLIs. Upon notification, applying to study in Quebec will require a CAQ (also known as Quebec Acceptance Certificate).
c. Funding Proof-
While applying for a Canada study permit, you must prove that you have sufficient money to cover your education and living costs for at least a year. The immigration department requires a minimum of CAD $20,635 per year.
d. Passport-Sized Photograph-
You will require two passport-sized photographs as per the standards mentioned. Online applications require digital copies not exceeding 4 MB. The facial expression should be neutral while the background should be plain, and the image size should be 35 x 45 mm, and the images should not be older than six months.
e. Immigration Medical Examination-
Canadian immigration authorities require international students to go through the mandatory Immigration Medical Examination (IME) by impaneled or listed doctors. This list can be found on the Government of Canada website. Book your appointment and visit at least a week prior to the visa application. Your doctor will be undertaking a complete medical examination, referring the candidate for various tests and even chest X-rays. Once the examination is complete, the results will be dispatched to the immigration authorities.
Although it is not compulsory to possess this score while applying, you should have obtained the same ideally before starting the process. You will have to eventually submit your English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS or PTE) for confirmation of the application.
g. SOP-
The SOP or Statement of Purpose is also required if you are considering getting a student visa for Canada. While applying for the same, you may have to provide an essay that states the purpose of your visit to the country and why you have selected a particular institution. This will be given as an optional document as part of the checklist.
h. Credit Card-
This is required to pay the student visa fees for Canada. CAD 160 is the payable fee, and the system does not accept debit cards. You may use a family member’s card with proper permission. You will also need a digital scanner for online applications and two copies of all your documents if you apply offline.
Some additional documents may be needed at the time of the personal interview. These include evidence of financial and academic position/status. You may have to furnish educational certificates, proof of degrees and qualifications, diplomas and transcripts. You may be asked to show scores on tests like GMAT, GRE, SAT, or TOEFL and prove your intention to return to your home country after completing your program. You should also prove ample funds in your account through bank statements and other documents if asked.
Student Visa for Canada from India – Application Procedure:
Remember to check timelines for processing. The entire application cycle may require three to four weeks in general. You should refer to the official website of the consulate and learn about approximate processing timelines. At the same time, you will only get estimates and not accurate figures.
STEP 1. You can apply online at http://www.cic.gc.ca/ctc-vac/getting-started.asp.
OR
You can physically apply after downloading the CIC website's instruction manual and application form. Fill out the form at http://www.vfsglobal.ca/canada/india/pdf/Consent_form_India.pdf and attach it to the application; this form is needed for getting VFS (Visa Facilitation Services) assistance with regard to visa filing.
STEP 2. You need scanner and camera access to create digital document copies before uploading, along with a valid credit card for paying the fees.
STEP 3. Visit your regional Visa Application Center (VAC) for biometrics.
STEP 4. You will then have to pay the processing fee to VFS Global Services for your application. This charge is non-refundable in all scenarios.
Student Visa for Canada from India via SDS
Indian students can apply to Canadian universities and colleges via Student Direct Stream or SDS which helps them get their visa processed under 20 calendar days.
The form for SDS entry is available on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada website or the IRCC website.
Once you have secured a seat in a designated learning institution (DLI) and have valid language test results, either IELTS or TOEFL and other documentation in place, you can submit your SDS application.
Canadian Study Visa Fees
A fee of CAD 150 is required for Canadian student visa fees. Also, students must present an upfront medical examination to apply for a Canada study visa.
Canada Student Visa Processing Time
The processing period for a student visa in Canada is anticipated to be 3-4 weeks.
If the application obtains approval, you will get an official notification from the Canadian Government requesting your passport. You can also submit this and the request letter personally or via VFS. You will get your letter of introduction and temporary resident visa subsequently.
Student Visa for Canada- Applicable Costs
The study permit requires CAD 150. You should keep checking the exchange rates to learn the exact amount. The visa processing fees are payable via credit cards online or offline through a demand draft or even cash. The fee should be paid upon submitting your application. The demand draft should be in favor of the High Commission of Canada. The visa charge does not include service charges at the VAC. You will have to pay added charges with receipts issued for each one of them. Keep all of these receipts carefully. You will also have to pay a biometric charge afterward, CAD 85.
Spouses may accompany full-time international students on dependent visas. You only have to demonstrate ample funds for supporting them. If they are staying for more than one year, spouses can also work full-time. In some scenarios, you may consider applying for your open work permit in case you will be going with your partner or spouse to the country. This will help you find any employment opportunity that is suitable for your skills and needs. You will not require any positive labor market assessment or job offers for applying for a work permit.
Canada Student Visa – Where Should You Apply
Apart from applying online, you can also visit these centers:
1. High Commission of Canada- 7/8 Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi-110021
2. Consulate General of Canada- SCO#54-56, Sector-17A, Chandigarh-160017
3. Consulate General of Canada-22nd Floor, World Trade Centre, Dr. Rajkumar Road, 26/1, Malleshwaram West, Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru-560055
4. Consulate General of Canada- 21st Floor, Tower-2, Indiabulls Finance Centre, Senapati Bapat Marg, Elphinstone Road (West), Mumbai-400013
You can only apply for the visa if you have ample proof of funds for covering tuition fees and living costs, have been accepted by a Canadian university or institution, and possess a clean background without any criminal record. A medical certificate is also needed, certifying that you are fit. You should also convince the immigration authorities about your intentions to leave Canada and return to your home country upon completing your studies. The duration is the entire tenure of your chosen study course/program and an extra 90 days.
How long does it take to get a Canadian student visa in India?
It takes around seven weeks in India to obtain a Canadian student visa. The length of the procedure is usually determined by the number of applications that the IRCC approves or rejects.
Can a pregnant woman apply for a student visa in Canada?
A woman’s pregnancy does not preclude her from acquiring a Canadian visa unless the pregnancy is medically risky. Pregnant women are not treated differently by the Canadian Consulate regarding visa applications.
Who can sponsor for student visa in Canada?
If you are 18 years old or older, a Canadian citizen, a person registered as an Indian in Canada under the Canadian Indian Act, or a permanent resident of Canada, you may sponsor certain relatives.
Can I convert a visitor visa to a student visa in Canada?
Before changing your Canadian visitor visa status to a study permit, you must first finish a short-term prerequisite course. Once you have completed the prerequisite course, you will be allowed to apply for a study permit in Canada.
Can I get a Canadian student visa without IELTS?
Students without an IELTS score who wish to study in Canada can apply to Canadian universities. Scores from examinations like the Duolingo English Test or other alternative English tests like the TOEFL iBT and CAEL can be submitted to get a student visa.
Can I bring my spouse on a student visa to Canada?
Yes, you may bring your dependent children and spouse to Canada. They could be eligible to get a visiting visa and a study or work permit. You must submit your applications for a study permit online.
Can I work on a student visa in Canada?
You may be permitted to work in Canada while studying if your study permit includes a condition allowing you to work on or off-campus. You must also fulfill all other requirements. You will be able to work as soon as you begin your studies in Canada.
Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technology, payroll, and education. She has worked as a creator for a few leading companies and has also helped brands grow through her creative writing.
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