Student Visa

Student Visa

Canada is one of the most ideal destinations for international students: diverse communities with over 200 spoken languages (English and French being the main ones), world-class education and the opportunity to gain work experience right after you graduate. In fact, over 640,000 international students immigrated to Canada in 2019 – a 13% increase from the previous year.

Studying in Canada means receiving internationally recognized education from some of the top institutions in the world. You have the option to study in one of Canada’s bigger and more vibrant cities or go to a quieter and cozier part of Canada. Either way, you will get to enjoy Canada’s open spaces, fascinating wildlife, safe environment and more.

So how can you apply for a Canada student visa?
There are a number of eligibility requirements you must meet to apply for Canada’s student visas:

  1. You must be enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

  2. You must have a valid passport or travel document

  3. You must provide the following documents:

    proof of acceptance, proof of identity, a letter of explanation, a custodian declaration (minors only), a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (if you want to study in Québec) and other documents related to your country’s or region’s local requirements

  4. You must have enough funds for tuition fees, living expenses and return transportation

  5. You must provide a police certificate to prove you don’t have a criminal record

  6. You must meet health requirements

  7. You must prove that you will return to your country of residents once your student visa expires

There are some exceptions for the student visa. You might not need a study permit at all if the following applies:

  1. You take up short-term studies (6 months or less). You can register to any Canada school if:

    a. Your course or program lasts 6 months or less

    b. Your studies aren’t part of a longer program (for example, if you’re taking a prerequisite course that will lead you to another course at a higher level) AND

    c. You will complete your studies within the time you were approved

  2. You might not need a study permit if you are part of a family of foreign representatives that have been accredited by Global Affairs Canada (GAC).

  3. You might not need a study permit if you are a member of a foreign armed force on official duties in Canada.

Even though there are exceptions and you don’t always have to get a student visa or study permit, there are two good reasons why you should reconsider. The first reason is that with a student visa or study permit, you will be able to continue studying (as long as you meet the requirements). The second reason is that you might be able to work in Canada on-campus or off-campus.

Great North Visa offers immigration consultancy services to clients around the world. With a successful track record and a strong team of certified RCIC agents, we are here to accompany you towards achieving your goals. Contact us today for a free consultation about our services and your options.