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Canada Student Visa Overview

The Canada Student Visa, officially called a Study Permit, is a document that allows international students to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This Canada Visa category is required for programs longer than six months; shorter courses generally do not require a study permit. To qualify, applicants need a letter of acceptance from a DLI, proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses, and evidence of intent to leave Canada once their studies are complete. A study permit is not a travel document on its own; depending on nationality, students may also need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which IRCC issues automatically alongside an approved study permit for applicants applying from outside Canada. Approval is decided solely by IRCC.

Canada Student Visa Fees

Fee TypeGovernment Fee (CAD)
Study Permit Processing Fee, per person$150
Biometrics Fee, per person$85
Biometrics Fee, per family (2 or more applying together)$170
Proof of Funds (single applicant, outside Quebec)Approx. $22,895

The study permit and biometrics fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused. The proof-of-funds figure is a minimum living-expense requirement and does not include tuition. Exchange rates fluctuate, and the funds threshold is updated periodically by IRCC, so figures are approximate. Information may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Canada Student Visa Processing Time

Processing time for a Canada Student Visa depends on the applicant’s country of residence and current application volumes, and typically ranges from several weeks to a few months. Processing begins only after biometrics are provided. Students should apply as soon as they receive their letter of acceptance from a DLI, since study permits are also subject to a national cap requiring a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) for most new applicants. Because timelines vary and study permits involve multiple supporting documents, including proof of funds and, in some cases, a medical exam or police certificate, applicants should apply well ahead of their program start date and avoid finalizing travel plans until the permit is approved.

Required Documents Checklist

Valid Passport (with validity for the duration of your stay)
Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL), if required
Completed Application Forms (including IMM 1294)
Digital Photo meeting IRCC specifications
Proof of Financial Support (bank statements, GIC, education loan, or sponsorship letter)
Proof of Tuition Fee Payment (if paid in advance)
Academic Transcripts and Certificates
Language Test Scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent, if required)
Statement of Purpose
Police Clearance Certificate (if required)
Medical Examination Results (if required)
Custodian Declaration (for applicants under 17)

Document requirements may vary depending on the province, institution, and individual circumstances.

Canada Student Visa Application Process

Get accepted at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and obtain a letter of acceptance.
Obtain a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter, if required for your program.
Create an IRCC online account and complete the study permit application.
Upload required documents and pay the study permit and biometrics fees.
Give biometrics at a Visa Application Centre, if required.
Complete a medical exam or provide a police certificate, if instructed.
Wait for a decision through your IRCC account.
If approved, receive your Port of Entry Letter of Introduction and TRV/eTA, then travel to Canada.

Important Notes

Visa approval depends solely on the decision of IRCC.
A study permit is required for programs longer than six months.
Most new applicants need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter due to the national study permit cap.
Processing does not begin until biometrics are provided, where required.
Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
Eligible students may work off-campus up to a limited number of hours per week during their studies.
Proof-of-funds thresholds are updated periodically and should be confirmed before applying.
Information may vary depending on the visa category and individual circumstances.

Why Choose Shivansh Consultants

Applying for a Canada Student Visa involves coordinating your DLI acceptance, attestation letter, and detailed financial documentation. Shivansh Consultants offers documentation support to help you organize your proof of funds, academic records, and supporting letters correctly. Our thorough application review and personalized guidance are tailored to your specific institution and program, helping you present a complete and consistent file. With a transparent process and experienced visa consultants, we provide end-to-end assistance throughout your Canada Visa journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Canada Student Visa fee?
The Study Permit processing fee is $150 CAD, plus an $85 CAD biometrics fee for most applicants. Students must also demonstrate proof of funds, which is a separate financial requirement rather than a government fee.

How long does Canada Student Visa processing take?
Processing time varies by country of residence and application volume, generally ranging from several weeks to a few months. Applying as early as possible after receiving your letter of acceptance is recommended.

What documents are required for a Canada Student Visa?
Key documents include a letter of acceptance from a DLI, proof of funds, academic transcripts, language test scores, and, for many applicants, a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter.
Can I apply for a Canada Student Visa from India?
Yes, Indian students can apply for a study permit online once accepted by a DLI, following the standard application, biometrics, and documentation process.
Is the Canada Student Visa fee refundable if refused?
No. The study permit processing fee and biometrics fee are generally non-refundable, whether the application is approved or refused.