Study Visa for Canada through SDS
If you’re an international student planning to study in Canada in 2024, there’s good news for you! Canada offers the Student Direct Stream (SDS) to simplify the application process for study permits. With SDS, decisions are made within 20 days, much faster than before.
In this Blog
In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to successfully applying for a Canadian study permit through the Student Direct Stream (SDS).
Let’s start with each step one by one.
Step 1: Get Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
The first step is to get a provincial attestation letter from the province or territory where you plan to study. This requirement was introduced recently, starting January 22, 2024. International students must include a Provincial Attestation Letter with their study permit application. This document is crucial for you; failure to include it may result in the rejection of your application.
Importance of of PAL
Within a certain province or territory, the PAL acts as confirmation of the student’s enrollment or acceptance by a designated learning institution (DLI). This will help Canadian immigration officials make sure that the student’s study plans comply with all applicable laws and rules in the relevant province or territory.
Step 2: Confirm Eligibility for SDS
Check if you meet the eligibility criteria for the Student Direct Stream SDS.
1. You have to be a resident of those countries that are on the SDS list.
2. You must have Acceptance letter from a designated learning institution
3. You should have a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) if you are studying in Quebec
4. You must also have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) as per province/territory requirements.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Once you confirm your eligibility, the next step is to start collecting all the necessary documents, which include:
1. Proof of tuition payment for the first year (excluding Quebec). the receipt of the semester fee payment.
2. Provide Medical exams and police certificates (if needed)
3. Your Academic transcripts and language test scores
4. You must have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
5. Language test proficiency scores (e.g., IELTS Academic 6 bands, TOEFL 83)
6. The acceptance letter, which we already mentioned above,.
Step 4: Selecting a Financial Institution for SDS
When you choose the financial institution for your Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), which is compulsory for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) application,. You must consider these two factors in your mind:
1. First, check out Canadian banks that offer GICs specifically for SDS applicants. These banks know what the program needs. and become your reliable partners.
2. Second, you should make sure the GIC meets SDS criteria, like the minimum investment and access to funds, when you arrive in Canada. This keeps everything in line with the program rules.
Step 5: Create an Account
To start, go to the Student Direct Stream (SDS) website and create your login. Simply choose your country and follow the instructions to set up your account. Remember, you can’t move forward without creating this login first.
Step 6: Pay Application and Biometrics Fee Online
When you create your account, you have to pay the fee. When paying online, remember that the application fee and biometric fee are separate but can be paid together. The application fee for a Canadian study visa is $150 CAD, while the biometric fee is $85 CAD. Therefore, the total amount you need to pay is $235 CAD. Ensure you pay both fees to complete your application process.
Step 7: Submit Online Application
Once you’ve completed the above steps and gathered all necessary documents (including photos of your documents), it’s time to submit your application through the Student Direct Stream (SDS).
Step 8: Biometrics for Canada Study Visa
After submitting your application, you’ll receive a letter requesting biometrics. This letter will contain detailed information about where and when to provide your fingerprints. It’s essential to follow the instructions in the letter and provide your fingerprints and photo within the specified timeframe.
Step 9: Wait for Process
Once biometrics are submitted, you just have to wait for the processing of your study permit application. In most cases, SDS applications are processed within 20 calendar days if all eligibility requirements are met. However, if you don’t meet the criteria for the Student Direct Stream, your application will be processed under the Regular Study Permit category, which may take longer.
Step 10: Receive Approval & ETA
Once you are approved for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) application, in the next step, you’ll receive a port of entry letter of introduction. Additionally, you may receive an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or visitor visa, depending on your entry requirements.
Important to Remember
When you reach the immigration counter while entering Canada, present your documents to the immigration officer. If everything is in order, the officer will print your study permit, allowing you to enter into canada on the basis of your study permit.
In Case of Refusal
While staying positive is important, there’s a chance your application could be refused. If that happens, carefully read the reasons in the refusal letter. Seek help from the right office to address concerns or explore appeal options, if available. You can file an appeal where you applied, and find more guidance through the same portal where you applied.
Important note regarding the application process
Remember that the process of applying for a Canada study permit is the same whether you apply through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) or the regular study permit, which is the common way to apply for a study permit. The process is almost identical except for the processing time because applications through SDS typically take around 20 days to process, while applications through the regular study permit may take a longer time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay both the application fee and the biometric fee together for a study permit application in Canada?
Yes, if biometrics are required for your study permit application in Canada, you will typically need to pay both the application fee and the biometric fee together. These fees are usually paid simultaneously when you submit your application online. Although they are separate fees, they are commonly paid together as part of the overall application process. However, we suggest you follow the specific requirements and instructions provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to ensure compliance with all payment obligations.
Can I use the IELTS General Training test for a study visa application to Canada?
Absolutely! The IELTS General Training test is recognized as an accepted English language proficiency test for Canadian study permit applications. However, it’s essential to ensure that the score you achieve meets the minimum requirements set by the Canadian government for the specific study program you intend to pursue. Before taking the test, it’s advisable to check the language proficiency requirements of the institution or program you’re interested in to ensure compatibility. Find more detail about other tests that are acceptable in Canada
What is the minimum IELTS score required for a study visa application to Canada?
Typically, a minimum score of 6 in the Academic Test and 7 in the General Training Test of the IELTS exam is often sought for a study visa application to Canada. However, it’s important to check the specific language proficiency requirements of the institution or program you’re applying to for accurate information.
Why a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) important before applying for a study permit in Canada?
The PAL ensures that your enrollment or acceptance by a designated learning institution (DLI) in a specific province or territory aligns with local regulations and requirements, thus facilitating the study permit application process.
Is a medical exam necessary for obtaining a study visa for Canada?
In some cases, a medical exam may be required for you when you have a study visa application to Canada, particularly if you, as an applicant, have lived or traveled in certain countries or territories for an extended period or plan to study or work in specific fields such as healthcare, education, etc. Find more about your country on the list of those who need medical test
Is a police certificate necessary to submit a study visa application to Canada?
Just like the medical test, the police certificate is also important to submit. However, its requirements depend on your country of residence and personal history. A police certificate may be required for a study visa application to Canada. Check out your country’s requirements and process for a police certificate.
How long are the Canada visa biometrics valid?
Canada visa biometrics are valid for 10 years, meaning that if you provide biometrics today, they will remain valid for the next 10 years, allowing their use for future temporary residence applications. You can also have the option to check your status to see if your fingers are still valid or not.
How much does the fund require for a Canada Study Visa? (Outside Quebec)
The required amount for the SDS-eligible GIC for applicants intending to study outside Quebec is CAN$20,635. Remember that this amount is updated after January 2024.
What are the official living expenses for students in Quebec?
The official cost for students studying and living in Quebec is $15,078, especially in 2024. This means that when you need a bank statement to prove that you can cover your expenses, you must consider this amount as your living expense. Remember that it is mandatory for you to show such an amount in your bank account. Learn more about Quebec living expense Requirements for international student
What is the difference between studying in Quebec and non-Quebec?
The primary difference lies in the language of instruction and tuition fees. In Quebec, French is predominantly used for instruction, while residents may benefit from lower tuition fees. In contrast, non-Quebec provinces use English as the primary language of instruction and typically apply standardized tuition fees for all students.
Can I pay the Canada study visa fee online?
Yes, you can make the payment online through your bank card. Once you register on the official website and create a login, you will see the option to make the payment using your card. Additionally, you can also pay for biometrics through the same method.
What is the purpose of the port-of-entry letter of introduction for international students entering Canada?
The port of entry letter of introduction serves as a document that international students present to the immigration officer upon arrival in Canada. It is not a study permit but is required to enter the country.
Is it easy to get a Canada study visa?
Obtaining a Canada study visa is relatively straightforward if you follow all the steps outlined above. Simply provide all the required documents accurately, and you will have a better chance of obtaining your Canadian student visa easily.
Can I settle in Canada after completing my studies?
If you move to Canada on a study visa, you have a great chance to settle in Canada after completing your studies. In Canada, English is the common language, which is spoken in many countries worldwide. As an international student, language won’t be a barrier for you, increasing your opportunities to apply for jobs and obtain a work permit based on your skills and qualifications. However, if you possess highly valuable skills or have a creative idea that can contribute to Canada, we recommend applying for the Canada Startup Visa Program after completing your studies. Read more about the Canada Startup Visa Program in detail.
Does a study permit grant permission to enter Canada?
No, a study permit is not sufficient for entry into Canada on its own. Additionally, you may require a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA). If necessary, these documents will be issued along with your study permit by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Disclaimer
While we make an effort to offer accurate and current information, it is advisable to independently verify the details on the official Canadian immigration website for absolute accuracy and clarity.
Our blog’s objective is to offer helpful information and direction for completing a Canada study visa through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) application process. It is important to rely on the official resources and procedures outlined by the relevant immigration authorities to ensure the most precise and up-to-date information for your application.
What do we hope for?
We hope this blog post helps you understand how to apply for and get a Canada study visa through Student Direct Stream (SDS).
If you have any questions to ask, you are welcome to leave a comment below or get in touch with us at migrate@workwisdoms.com.
