Students from all around the world aspire to study in a top educational institute in a country that is renowned for its inclusive environment and offers academic growth opportunities.
Canada is renowned for its top-notch education system, with universities ranking among the best globally. There are numerous reasons why every student dreams of a study visa in Canada, such as a means to balance work and study, and it provides plentiful research opportunities to students and research scholars.
The student visa Canada process consists of various steps and documentation that need to be fulfilled to make sure your application gets accepted.
However, after applying for a study visa the most crucial part is waiting through the processing time for a Canada study visa. The processing time depends upon many factors such as the country where you are applying from, and the completion of your application.
In this guide, we will not only explore the process of applying for a Canada study visa in depth but also give you an idea of what to expect from the processing times to ensure that you are well-prepared for this journey.
Overview of Canada Study Visa
The student visa Canada is almost similar to a Canada visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization program (eTA), however, the student must also hold a study permit to be eligible for study. It is a document that will enable beginning your education in Canada.
A student permit enables you to attend schooling under the designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. The study permit will permit you to be present in Canada for a limited period, namely the duration of the study.
Certain conditions must be fulfilled to keep your student visa in Canada.
- Be enrolled in a DLI
- Meet all the requirements of the student visa Canada
- Do not overstay in Canada after your study permit expires
- Work towards the completion of your study program.
student visa Canada Complete Application Process
A step-by-step guide to a student visa Canada is as follows:
- Choosing a designated DLI: Make sure that the institution you chose for studying is a designated learning institution that is also approved by the government of Canada. Obtain an acceptance letter from a DLI.
- Create an online account on the official Canadian government website through the IRCC website: Visit the government’s official website and create an online account through the IRCC portal.
- Fill out the online form and complete the application: Fill out the form online. Collect and submit the necessary required documents to start your application process.
- Pay the required application fees and submit your application: The fees vary according to the country you are applying from, pay the fees through the IRCC portal. Submit your application, and attend a biometric appointment if required.
- Wait through the processing stage and for the final decision on the application. Once your application is accepted successfully, start packing your bags and travel to Canada.
Processing Time for a Student Visa Canada
The processing time for a student visa Canada varies due to many factors such as your location, how early you have submitted your application, and how accurately your application form is filled. However, after submitting, it can take 8 to 14 weeks if you are applying from Pakistan.
Factors That Can Affect the Processing Times
Some factors due to which the processing time can get extended are;
- The lack of documents
- Not submitting a complete application
- Applying during peak times
- Biometrics can also extend the processing time
Tips on How to Expedite the Process
Waiting through the processing time requires patience and self-control however there are certain strategies that you can follow in order to expedite the whole process.
- Firstly, try to apply at your earliest convenience for the Canada study visa to avoid any kind of delays.
- Then make sure that your application is filled completely and accurately.
- Consult a trustworthy Canada immigration consultants to help you fill out the application and guide throughout the process.
- Give your biometrics as soon as possible.
- Lastly, Track your application using the IRCC’s online portal.
Study Direct Stream (SDS) Canada
Canada study visa has another category for some specific countries known as the Study Direct Stream that cuts the processing time and through which students can get their study visas faster. The application processing through the SDS takes around 20 days however, delay can be possible in some cases.
Student Visa 2024 Updates
Although international students are an integral part of the Canadian community, the recent influx of students has affected the services. To tackle this problem the IRCC has put in a set of new rules for international students coming to Canada on a student visa.
According to this change, the number of international students would decrease by 35 percent. Furthermore, there are significant changes to the post-graduation work permit eligibility criteria. Most importantly, there has been a change in the living expenses of international students.
The recent changes are implemented for two years 2024 to 2026 termed as temporary, it provides an opportunity to make further adjustments in the future if needed to adapt to the evolving global landscape.
Conclusion
In short, a student visa Canada allows you to embark on your educational journey in Canada by getting admitted into a Designated Learning Institute. Canada offers a wide range of universities to choose from and is at the forefront of shaping the future of students.
The Canada study visa process requires in-depth research and understanding, which can help applicants take steps and follow tips and strategies to ensure shorter processing times. By following the steps and strategies mentioned in this guide you can overcome any challenge and can maximize the chances of visa approval.
Being updated on any changes and also accessing resources such as the IRCC’s online portal will help in the proper handling of the application process, thus creating a positive mindset to focus on future studies in Canada.