Amongst the countless opportunities that Canada has to offer, education is one of the most popular reasons immigrants choose to reside in Canada. 

The high level of education available in Canada is comparable to that available in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. This is due to the fact that the Canadian education system focuses its curriculum on three key areas of concentration: research, scientific publications and international collaborations. 

Every year, Canada attracts over 130,000 international students due to the high quality of its education. Most notably, Canada continues to attract a steady volume of students from India. 

While admittance to universities in Canada still requires an exceptional academic record, the right to study is recognized by a Study Visa. 

If you are looking to call Canada your home as you complete your post-secondary degree, consider this your ultimate guide. 

What is a Study Visa?

A Study Visa refers to a licence provided to students prior to their studies in Canada. 

A Study Visa is a document that is provided to foreign students by the Government of Canada, prior to their studies in Canada. The permit authorizes the students to study at any Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) across the country. 

This permit, together with the student’s passport, is granted by the government to students who have obtained an offer letter from a post-secondary Canadian university or institution.

This permit opens the doors for international students to explore not only a new country but further their education and qualifications. 

Understanding your Eligibility for a Study Visa

When beginning the process of applying for a Study Visa, it is important to note that a valid letter of admission from a DLIs must be obtained prior to applying. 

After completing the required admission application to a Canadian post-secondary institution, the applicant will then receive an offer of admission to attend the institution. 

The offer of admission is a crucial aspect of applying for a Study Visa. 

It is important to note that if you plan on attending a post-secondary institution in Canada for a short duration (such as one semester or one year), you do not need to apply for the Study Visa. 

However, if you are looking to obtain a multiple-year education at a Canadian post-secondary institution, a Study Visa is required. 

Required Criteria for a Study Visa 

An applicant will be approved for a Study Visa once they have met the following required criteria under the Government of Canada:

• Have been accepted by a Designated Learning Institute (DLI)

• Have adequate funds to pay for tuition fees and living expenses

• Passed a background check and obtain no criminal record 
• Passed a medical evaluation and provided a valid medical certificate 

Once the previous criteria have been met and are sufficient, the Government of Canada will extend an invitation for the applicant to move forward with the process within two weeks. 

Study Visa Application Process  

As the applicant continues to move forward with the application process following their required eligibility, they will then need to prepare all necessary documents to further the process with their local Visa Application Centre. 

The applicant will meet with an immigration officer at their local Visa Application Centre, where they will be asked to provide the following documentation: 

• Completed Study Visa application form 

• Original letter of acceptance from the Canadian post-secondary institution

• Valid passport/travel document 

• Two recent passport-sized photographs 

• Proof of financial support during the study program 

• Letter of intent 

• Proof of payment for the Study Visa ($150.00 CAD)

It is important to note that the applicant will also have to undergo a biometrics screening as part of the application process. The fee for this is $85.00 CAD. 

The officer will provide the valid applicant with their Study Visa once the necessary documents have been validated. The officer makes the ultimate judgement and may deny you a Study Visa despite you completing and fulfilling the requirements. 

This, however, is quite unusual.

It is important to note that the Study Visa expires 90 days after you have completed your studies. 

However, do not let this discourage you from continuing to call Canada your home. 

You can then apply for a Work Visa, which permits you to work legally within the country following your studies. 

Study in Canada with the Help of Starleaf Immigration & Consulting Inc

Getting a Study Visa for Canada opens doors to future employment and business opportunities for you, and most importantly, paves way for your Permanent Residency in case you wish to permanently call Canada your home. 

Canadian education is recognized worldwide and is most affordable with low tuition fees. You can come to Canada right after your High School or can even apply for Ph.D. research; there is something for everyone here! 

At Starleaf Immigration & Consulting Inc, our Immigration Team works to provide you with resources and insights into turning your Canadian dream into a reality. 

If you are interested in learning more about your options for obtaining a Study Visa, visit our website to book your Free Call Back and speak with a member of our team.