Overview
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations for international students, with over 800,000 study permit holders. The Canada Study Permit is not a visa itself — it's a document that authorizes you to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
Canada offers excellent post-study work opportunities through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing graduates to work for up to 3 years, with pathways to permanent residence through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.
Two Application Streams
🚀 Student Direct Stream (SDS) — Faster Processing
Available for students from Pakistan, India, China, Philippines, Vietnam, Morocco, Senegal, and several other countries. Processing time: ~20 days. Requirements: IELTS overall 6.0 (minimum 6.0 per band), GIC of CAD $20,635, first year tuition paid in full, medical exam.
📋 Regular Stream
For all nationalities not eligible for SDS or who don't meet SDS criteria. Processing time: 4–16 weeks depending on country. More flexible documentation requirements but longer processing.
Step-by-Step Process
Get Accepted by a DLI
Apply to a Designated Learning Institution. You'll receive a letter of acceptance with your DLI number needed for the study permit application.
Get a GIC (SDS) or Prepare Financial Proof
For SDS: purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD $20,635 from a participating bank (Scotiabank, ICICI, SBI Canada). For regular stream: provide bank statements showing CAD $20,635 + tuition.
Complete Medical Exam (if required)
Nationals from certain countries must undergo a medical examination by an IRCC-approved panel physician. This must be done before or during the application.
Apply Online via IRCC Portal
Create an account on the IRCC portal, fill the application, upload documents, and pay the CAD $150 study permit fee plus CAD $85 biometrics fee.
Give Biometrics
Visit a VAC (Visa Application Centre) to provide fingerprints and photo within 30 days of receiving your biometrics instruction letter.
Receive Decision & Travel
If approved, you receive a Letter of Introduction. At the Canadian port of entry, the immigration officer issues your actual study permit document.
Required Documents
📋 Core Documents
- Valid passport
- Letter of acceptance from a DLI
- Proof of financial support — GIC receipt, bank statements, sponsor letter
- Passport photos (35mm × 45mm)
- IELTS/TOEFL scores
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) — explaining why Canada, why this program
- Medical exam results (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate (from each country you've lived in for 6+ months since age 18)
Tips by Nationality
🇵🇰 Pakistani Students
Pakistan is eligible for the SDS stream — take advantage of the faster processing. Get your GIC from a Pakistani bank partnered with a Canadian bank (e.g., HBL with Scotiabank). A strong SOP is essential — Canada has increased scrutiny on Pakistani applications due to high refusal rates. Show clear academic progression and career plans tied to Pakistan.
🇮🇳 Indian Students
India is the largest source of Canadian study permit holders. SDS processing is efficient — apply early (March–April) for September intake. Multiple VACs available across India. Use SBI Canada or ICICI Bank for your GIC. Be aware of recent changes in PGWP eligibility — ensure your program qualifies.
🇧🇩 Bangladeshi Students
Bangladesh is not currently in the SDS program, so applications go through the regular stream (8–12 weeks). Ensure all financial documents are in English with notarized translations where necessary. A comprehensive SOP explaining ties to Bangladesh is crucial. Apply through the VAC in Dhaka.
🇳🇵 Nepalese Students
Nepal is not currently eligible for SDS. Processing through the regular stream typically takes 8–16 weeks. Apply well in advance. Demonstrate strong financial capacity and home ties. The nearest VAC may be in Kathmandu or New Delhi — check current processing centers.
🇳🇬 Nigerian Students
Nigerian students apply through the regular stream. Processing times can be 10–16 weeks. Police clearance from the Nigerian Police is required and should be obtained early. Financial documentation should be comprehensive — include bank statements, sponsor letters, and any scholarship awards.
Fees
| Fee | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Study Permit Application | $150 |
| Biometrics | $85 |
| GIC (SDS requirement) | $20,635 |
| Medical Exam | $100–$300 (varies) |
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a PGWP:
- Program 8+ months to 2 years — PGWP equal to program length
- Program 2+ years — PGWP for 3 years
- No job offer required — open work permit
- Canadian work experience through PGWP feeds into Express Entry CRS points for permanent residence