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Canada Study Visa

Everything you need to know about studying in Canada — from eligibility and Student Direct Stream (SDS) to university selection and post-graduation work permits.

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Processing Time

4-8 weeks (20 days via SDS)

Visa Fee

CAD 150

Validity

Duration of study program + 90 days

Overview

Why Canada?
The smartest choice for your education.

Canada is the world's most popular destination for international students, welcoming over 800,000 study permit holders in 2025. With world-class universities, post-graduation work opportunities, and a clear pathway to permanent residency, a Canada study visa (study permit) is your gateway to building a global career.

This guide covers everything Indian students need to know: eligibility requirements, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for faster processing, required documents, costs, top universities, and the step-by-step application process.

World-Class Education

Home to 30+ universities ranked in the QS World Top 500, including UofT, McGill, UBC, and Waterloo.

Work While You Study

International students can work 20 hours/week during term and full-time during scheduled breaks.

Post-Graduation Work Permit

Eligible graduates can get a PGWP for up to 3 years — no job offer required.

Pathway to PR

Canadian education and work experience earn significant CRS points for Express Entry permanent residency.

Affordable Compared to US/UK

Tuition fees range from CAD 15,000-40,000/year — significantly lower than comparable US programs.

Safe & Multicultural

Canada consistently ranks among the safest and most welcoming countries for international students.

Detailed Guides

Explore by type.
Find your perfect pathway.

Masters

Canada offers world-class Master's programs across research and course-based streams.

4-8 weeks
CAD 150
Read guide

MBA

An MBA from a Canadian business school opens doors to global career opportunities.

4-8 weeks
CAD 150
Read guide

Bachelors

Studying for a Bachelor's degree in Canada gives you access to a world-class education system.

4-8 weeks
CAD 150
Read guide

B.Tech

Canada is emerging as a STEM powerhouse with universities like Waterloo, UBC, and UofT offering cutting-edge engineering programs.

4-8 weeks
CAD 150
Read guide

SDS

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a fast-track study permit processing option for students from India and other select countries.

~20 calendar days
CAD 150
Read guide

Dependant Visa

International students in Canada can bring their spouse and dependent children.

4-8 weeks
CAD 150 per dependent
Read guide

Extension

If your study program takes longer than expected, or you're switching programs, you'll need to extend your study permit.

4-12 weeks
CAD 150
Read guide

Application Process

Step by step.
Your complete roadmap.

01

Get Your Acceptance Letter

Apply to Canadian DLIs and receive your letter of acceptance. Research programs that match your career goals.

02

Gather Required Documents

Prepare your passport, acceptance letter, proof of funds (GIC + tuition receipt for SDS), language scores, and medical exam results.

03

Apply Online via IRCC

Create an account on the IRCC portal, fill out the application forms (IMM 1294), upload documents, and pay the CAD 150 application fee.

04

Provide Biometrics

Visit a VFS Application Centre in India to provide your fingerprints and photo. Fee: CAD 85.

05

Wait for a Decision

Processing takes 4-8 weeks (regular) or approximately 20 days (SDS). You'll receive a Port of Entry (POE) letter of introduction.

06

Travel to Canada

Present your POE letter at the Canadian airport. A border officer will issue your study permit on arrival.

FAQ

Common questions.
Clear answers.

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