Understanding the Canadian Student Visa Process

The first step for international students wanting to study in Canada is to secure a student visa, this will pave the way for students to obtain a study permit which will be issued by the immigration officer at the port of entry. To secure a study permit, students must obtain acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition fees and living expenses, and satisfy other requirements outlined by Immigration, refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This process can indeed be a daunting one, but with proper guidance and support, it is possible to complete this process with ease and confidence. Here is a breakdown of the steps students need to take when applying for a student visa:

1.  Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

Before applying for a study permit, international students must first be accepted into a Designated Learning Institution in Canada. DLIs are approved by the Canadian government to accept and host international students. Prospective students should look into universities, colleges, and other educational institutions in Canada to choose the program that best fits their academic and personal interests.

2. Gather Required Documents

Some of the documents required for the study permit application process are:

-A valid passport

-Letter of acceptance from a Canadian DLI

-Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation

– Intention Letter (A letter to the Canadian government stating your main purpose for coming to Canada)

-Medical examination results (if applicable)

-Police certificate (if required)

-Completed application forms and fee payment receipts.

3. Complete the Online Application

Most study permit applications are submitted online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Applicants must create an online account, complete all essential forms correctly, and upload all supporting documents in the specified format. The application fee for submitting a study permit application is non-refundable and the cost must be paid online with a valid credit or debit card. The amount may vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence and IRCC’s current processing fees. 

4. Undergo Biometrics (if required)

Depending on the applicant’s country of residency, they may be requested to provide biometric information in the form of fingerprints and a photo to an authorized Visa Application Center (VAC) or Application Support Center (ASC). Biometrics are used to validate an applicant’s identity and simplify background checks.

5. Attend an Interview (if required)

In some instances, applicants may be invited to an interview at the Canadian consulate or embassy in their native country. During the interview, visa authorities analyze the applicant’s intentions, ties to their home country, and ability to support themselves financially while studying in Canada. It is very rare that you will be requested to undergo an interview, however, it is better to prepare for the possibility.

6. Processing

After submitting the study permit application, applicants must wait for it to be processed by IRCC. Processing times can vary depending on the applicant’s nation of residence, the time of year, and the number of applications received.

7. Receive Decision

If the study permit application is approved, the IRCC will issue a study permit to the applicant. The permit will specify the duration of study, terms of stay, and any other extra requirements such as full-time attendance and academic advancement. If your study permit application has been refused by the IRCC, it is highly likely that you may have to reapply, you can also consider utilizing a representative such as an immigration consultant to undergo the process for you. 

8. Arrival to Canada

Once you have obtained your student visa, you can make travel arrangements to Canada. Upon arrival to Canada, students must present their student visa to immigration authorities at the port of entry, after which students will obtain a study permit which allows them to stay in Canada for the duration of their study. They may also be asked to provide additional documents, such as a letter of introduction from IRCC. Once admitted, students can begin their academic journey.

Study Permits and Extensions

Upon arriving in Canada, international students must adhere to the terms of their study permit, which include maintaining full-time enrollment at a DLI and making adequate progress in their course of study. It is essential to be aware of the validity period of the study permit and start the renewal process as soon as possible to achieve a maintained valid status in Canada. Additionally, students can consider extending their stay in Canada after graduation through work permits or further studies, each with its own set of eligibility criteria and application procedures

Post-Graduation Opportunities

One of the most compelling reasons for international students to choose Canada is the possibility to obtain post-graduate employment experience. Canada’s Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) program enables eligible graduates to earn valuable work experience in Canada for up to three years, paving the way to permanent residency and ultimately citizenship. Graduates can pursue various employment options across industries by using their Canadian education and professional experience which also contributes to the economic and social landscape of Canada. To be eligible for the PGWP, students must have finished a program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) and hold a valid study permit at the time of application.

Transitioning to Permanent Residency

It is no secret that many international students come to Canada to study with the intention of settling permanently. With its welcoming immigration policies and numerous options to achieve permanent residency, Canada provides international graduates with a clear path to citizenship. From the Express Entry system to provincial nominee Programs (PNPs) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), there are multiple avenues for skilled workers and graduates to secure permanent residency status and build a future in Canada. Here is a rudimentary breakdown of each option:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

This is an immigration program that allows individuals with a Canadian diploma or at least one year work experience in an occupation that falls under the Teer 0,1,2, or 3 classification according to the Government of Canada. To find out which Teer your occupation falls under, you can check out the Job Bank of Canada which gives a detailed explanation of each Teer and examples of occupations that fall under each category. International graduates who have gained skilled work experience in Canada through the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, may be eligible to for permanent residency under the Canadian Experience Class.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many provinces in Canada undergo Provincial Nominee Programs which allow them to nominate applicants for permanent residency based on specified criteria and labor market demands. Some PNPs allow international graduates who have finished their course of study in Canada to apply for nomination and eventual permanent residency. Each province establishes its own eligibility rules and selection procedures, therefore, graduates must research the PNPs available in their desired province and assess their eligibility for nomination.

Employer Sponsorship

Some international students may have the opportunity to gain permanent residency through employer sponsorship. Employers in Canada are able to sponsor foreign workers for permanent residency through various immigration programs, including the Provincial Nominee Programs and the Express Entry System. International graduates who have earned meaningful job experience in Canada, and have built relationships with employers may be well-positioned to explore sponsorship opportunities for permanent residency.