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 Type | Government 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
Document requirements may vary depending on the province, institution, and individual circumstances.
Canada Student Visa Application Process
Important Notes
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.