As one of the world’s top destinations for international students, Canada offers high-quality education, post-study employment opportunities, and a pathway to permanent residency. In order to study legally in Canada, international students must obtain a Canadian Study Permit, also known as a Student Visa.
It is important to note that the Canada Student Visa Guide 2025 explains all of the essential requirements, documents, eligibility criteria, and steps to successfully apply for a Canada Student Visa.
1. Getting to know the Canada Student Visa (Student Permit)
With the permission of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, foreign nationals can study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
What you need to know:
- A letter of admission must be received prior to applying to a DLI.
- It is typical for a study permit to last for the duration of your program plus 90 days.
- You may work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while you are studying, and you may work full-time during breaks.
- In most cases, you will be able to bring your spouse and children as dependents.
2. Minimum eligibility requirements
It is necessary for applicants to meet the following requirements in order to receive a Canadian Study Permit:
1. Accreditation by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Designated Learning Institutions are schools and universities that have been authorized to host international students by the Canadian government.
- In your admission letter (Letter of Acceptance), you must include the following information:
- Institution’s name and DLI number
- Program details
- Timeframe of the study
- Authentication of official documents by signatures
2. Evidence of financial support
Please demonstrate that you are able to cover the tuition fees, living expenses, and transportation expenses if any family members will be accompanying you.
The minimum financial requirement for 2025 will be as follows:
- The tuition fee for one year varies according to the program and school.
- Living expenses:
- Each year, the student pays CAD $20,635
- There is a requirement of CAD $4,000 for the first member of the family
- The cost of each additional dependent will be CAD $3,000
The following can be used to prove funds:
- Bank statements (last four to six months)
- The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of a Canadian bank
- Receipts for tuition and accommodations
- A letter of sponsorship (if you are being supported by someone else)
- Approval letter for an education loan (if funded by one)
3. Maintaining a valid passport
- Your passport must remain valid throughout your studies.
- It would be helpful if you could include copies of all previous visas (if any).
4. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- An explanation of why you wish to study in Canada, your educational goals, and how it fits into your career plans should be included in your statement.
- By using the SOP, you will be able to convince visa officers that you are a genuine student.
5. Evidence of your country’s ties to your home country
- Upon completion of your studies, you must demonstrate that you will return home.
- It is acceptable to provide proof such as property ownership, family ties, or a return job offer.
6. Having an unblemished criminal record
- In order to obtain a Police Clearance Certificate, you must show that you do not have any criminal record.
- There is a possibility that some applicants will have to submit fingerprints or undergo additional background checks.
7. Obtain a physical examination
- Students from certain countries, such as Nigeria and India, are required to submit this form.
- A physician who is a member of the IRCC panel must perform the procedure.
8. Knowledge of the English or French language
- Despite not being mandatory for the visa, most DLIs require the following test results:
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- It is recommended that you achieve a minimum score of 6.0 on the IELTS Academic exam (most programs require at least 6.0)
- A minimum score of 80 is required on the TOEFL iBT
- Duolingo English Test: A widely accepted test
- French-language programs: TEF Canada
3. Step-by-step instructions for applying for a Canadian student visa
The first step is to receive your acceptance letter
Become a student at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and await an offer letter. Obtaining a Study Permit is not possible without this document.
The second step is to collect all the necessary documentation
Prepare all required documents prior to applying online or at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
The third step is to apply online at the IRCC website
Register with IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) on the official immigration website of the Government of Canada (www.canada.ca).
Select the Study Permit Application option and fill out the online forms carefully.
The fourth step is to pay the application fees
The following must be paid:
- Fee for Permit: $150 CAD
- Fee for biometrics: CAD $85
Online payments may be made with credit or debit cards.
The fifth step is to provide your biometric information
After your application has been submitted, a Biometric Instruction Letter will be sent to you. Schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) in your country to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Additionally, a medical examination may be required (if necessary).
The results of your medical test should be submitted directly to IRCC after the test has been completed at an IRCC-approved panel clinic.
The seventh step is to wait for the processing to be completed
There may be a difference in processing times depending on your country:
- Time required for processing: 4-10 weeks
- Students Directed Streams (SDS): 20 days (if eligible)
You will receive updates through your IRCC account.
The eighth step is to receive a letter of introduction from the Port of Entry (POE)
A Letter of Introduction will be issued to you by IRCC if your application for a Study Permit is approved. When you travel to Canada, please carry this document with you.
The 9th step is to obtain a study permit at the port of entry
Please present the following upon your arrival in Canada:
- Letter of Introduction
- Obtaining a passport
- Acceptance letter from your school
- Documentation of financial transactions
- Visa approval letter
The immigration officer will issue you your official Study Permit.
4. Documentation checklist
Typically, the following documents are required in order to obtain a Canada Student Visa:
- It is necessary to have an active passport
- Acceptance letter from DLI
- Proof of financial support
- Photographs of passport size (as specified)
- VISA application forms (IMM 1294 and family forms, if applicable)
- Proof of tuition payment or GIC
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Certificates of academic achievement and transcripts
- Results of the English/French language tests (if applicable)
- Clearance certificate from the police
- Medical examination report (if required)
- Evidence of a home connection (family, property, or employment)
- Visa application receipts and biometric fee receipts
For all documents not written in English or French, translations and certifications are required.
5. Direct Stream for Students (SDS) – Faster processing of visas
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a visa processing option offered by some countries, including India, Nigeria (at the pilot stage), Ghana, Kenya, and others.
Eligibility for SDS:
- In order to apply online, you must reside in an eligible country
- Obtain a valid Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
- Advance payment of tuition for the first year is required
- Invest in a CAD $10,000 Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- It is recommended that you take a recognized language test (such as the IELTS 6.0+ or the TEF Canada).
- You must undergo a medical examination prior to applying
Time required for processing: 20 calendar days or less (if complete)
6. The possibility of studying and working in Canada
As an international student with a valid Study Permit, you are entitled to:
- Work a maximum of 20 hours per week during academic sessions
- Work full-time during scheduled breaks (such as summer or winter holidays)
There is no requirement for a separate work permit for work on or off campus.
It is possible for spouses of students enrolled in postgraduate or long-term programs to obtain an Open Work Permit.
7. Post-graduation employment opportunities
As a result of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you will be able to work in Canada for up to three years following the completion of your studies.
PGWP eligibility:
- Attending a full-time DLI
- At least eight months were spent on the program
- Within 180 days of receiving final results, apply
Work experience gained under the PGWP can help you qualify for Permanent Residency (PR) through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
8. The most common reasons for visa rejection
- There is insufficient financial support
- There is a weakness in the Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- The absence of strong ties to the country of origin
- Fake or incomplete documents
- Academic or language scores that are below average
- Inconsistent information in documents
To avoid rejection, follow these tips:
- Ensure that you provide clear evidence of your financial position
- Standard Operating Procedures should be written in a strong, honest manner
- Upon completion of your studies, provide proof of your intention to return home
- Ensure that only official documents can be verified are used
9. Costs and time associated with processing (2025)
| Process | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Study Permit | 4–10 weeks | CAD $150 |
| Biometric Submission | Within 30 days | CAD $85 |
| Medical Exam | 1–2 weeks | Varies (CAD $100–$200) |
| Student Direct Stream (SDS) | 20 days | CAD $150 |
10. Traveling to Canada after receiving a visa approval
Prepare for travel after approval by:
- Be sure to keep all important documents in your hand luggage
- Show your Letter of Introduction and DLI acceptance at the airport
- Be prepared to answer questions about your studies and finances
You will receive your Study Permit at the port of entry, enabling you to study legally in Canada.
11. A brief overview
The following requirements must be met for student visas to Canada:
- Admission letter from a designated learning institution
- Financial capability demonstration
- A valid passport and photos
- Here is a brief statement of purpose
- Certificates of medical and police clearance
- Payments for visas and biometrics
It is crucial to meet these requirements and submit complete, genuine documents to improve your chances of success.
12. The bottom line
Preparation is key to success in applying for a Canada Student Visa. Make sure your documents are complete, your finances are verifiable, and your purpose for studying is genuine. Canadian government offers permanent residency and career growth opportunities to international students.
By following these steps and meeting all requirements, you will be able to start your academic journey in Canada legally and confidently.