Canada Student Visa Guide: Eligibility, Fees & How to Apply

Posted on: Jul 17, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Canada Student Visa Guide: Eligibility, Fees & How to Apply

Canada has become one of the most sought-after education destinations for international students seeking advanced education and knowledge, cultural uniqueness and unparalleled career opportunities. Every year, thousands of students from around the world apply for a Canadian student visa to enrol on graduate, undergraduate, postgraduate or diploma programs at prestigious Canadian Universities and institutes. In addition to the academic allure, Canada, which is famous for its welcoming environment, even offers students permanent residency and international job opportunities.

However, obtaining a study visa for Canada is a rigorous procedure that requires eligibility requirements, meeting deadlines, and having the necessary documentation. Having international or student travel insurance is as crucial as obtaining a visa. In the event of unanticipated events like medical expenses, delay in travel, or loss of property, travel insurance ensures that you are financially protected.

This Canadian student visa guide goes into great detail about different types of student visas, eligibility requirements, documentation, application process and the best time to apply.

Student visa guide to Canada

Through the study visa in Canada, which is also referred to as a study permit, the Canadian government formally authorisation foreign students to attend a designated Learning institution. Without this permit, students cannot enrol on classes or courses for more than six months. Along with the academic benefits, the students are also allowed to work part-time while they are in school and full-time during breaks. Whether you plan to pursue a short-term certification or a multi-year degree program, the first step is to understand the Canada visa process.

Additionally, students travelling abroad must purchase travel insurance online or a Canada travel insurance plan from a reliable provider. These plans provide financial coverage for unforeseen circumstances like medical emergencies and trip disruptions, giving you peace of mind throughout your academic career. Read on to find out more about student travel insurance..

Types of Canadian Student Visas

The main study visa for Canada is the Canadian study permit. However, additional travel documents may be required based on your home country and mode of transportation. The various types of Canadian student visas are:

1. Study permit

This standard format is required for students who are enrolled in programs that last longer than 6 months. This is the primary document you will need in Canada.

2. The TRV or Temporary Resident Visa

Students from certain countries will need a TRV in addition to their study permit in order to enter Canada. The approval of your study permit leads to the issues of this visitor visa.

3. Authorisation for electronic travel (eTA)

If you are flying from a country that does not require a visa, for example, the USA, you must have an eTA linked to your passport.

Regardless of the type of visa you hold, having student travel insurance ensures that any medical or travel-related emergencies do not disrupt your academic plans.

Eligibility for Canadian Study Visas

To become eligible for a student visa to Canada, you must meet specific requirements set forth by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This includes:

1. Acceptance Letter:

It is necessary to obtain an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution(DLI).

2. Financial Proof:

You are required to show that you have enough money to cover your living expenses (about CAD 10000 a year), tuition fees and round-trip transportation.

3. Clear Record:

Show a police clearance certificate to confirm that you have no criminal history or visa violations

4. Medical Exam:

A medical examination may also be required if your stay exceeds six months.

5. Intention to Return:

You need to convince the visa officer that you plan to return home after completing your studies. You can either show it by a job prospect or a family attachment back home.

Universities also commonly use assessments such as the TOEFL or IELTS to confirm students' English language proficiency.

Some Additional Requirements for the Visa Process:

While meeting the eligibility requirements is necessary, adding the following documents will make your application stand out from the crowd :

1. Student travel insurance:

Many universities and provinces require proof of Canadian travel insurance for international students. Although it is not required, it is strongly advised to protect against medical expenses and other emergencies.

2. Evidence of ties to the home country:

Records such as employment offers, real estate ownership or family ties back home may show that you plan to return home after completion of your courses.

3. Statement of purpose:

A well-written and crisp SOP detailing your career plans, motivations for choosing Canada and listing educational objectives will also help in convincing the visa officers about your future

However, do verify that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your planned visit.

Application for a student visa to Canada

The Canada visa process is simple, but it needs careful consideration:

1. Apply to a DLI: Get accepted into a reputable college or university in Canada, which is a designated learning institution.

2. Acquire necessary documentation: Gather acceptance letters, medical certifications, financial evidence and international travel insurance documents.

3. Submit online application: Apply online at the official IRCC website or at a visa application centre in your country.

4. Visa fees: The study permit application fee is roughly CAD 150.

5. Biometrics appointment: Visit the closest biometric facilities and submit your fingerprints and photos.

6. Attend interview( if required): In order to verify the intentions, some students might have to go to a Visa Interview.

7. Await processing: Depending on where you live, the processing time may range from 4 to 12 weeks.

List of Documents Required for a Student Visa to Canada

This is a comprehensive list of documents required for you to apply for a Canada study visa:

1. A sufficiently valid passport

2. Acceptance letter from a DLI

3. Evidence of funds, including bank statements and scholarship letters

4. Passport-size photographs that satisfy the visa requirements

5. The purpose statement or SOP

6. Test of language proficiency and academic records, for example, IELTS

7. Police certificate

8. Medical examination records

9. Proof of student travel Insurance or a Canada travel insurance policy

You need to ensure that all documents are translated into English or French and certified by authorised translators if they are in any other vernacular language.

Best Time to Apply for a Canadian Student Visa

Timing is crucial when applying for a Canadian student visa. Ideally, students should apply at least 3 to 6 months before the start of that course or curriculum, as Canadian Universities have three major intakes :

1. Fall Intake (September): This is the most popular intake, with applications starting as early as January.

2. Winter Intake (January): Applications should be completed by July-August of the previous year.

3. Summer Intake (May): These are best for short courses or diplomas with applications closing around November.

Applying early not only ensures smooth processing of your Canada Visa but also gives you enough time to check for travel insurance online, book flights and plan your stay.

Concluding remarks

Studying in Canada can be a life-changing opportunity offering world-class education, diverse cultural experiences and global career prospects. However, the key to a successful journey lies in understanding the Canada student visa process, ensuring all documents are in order and applying within the right time frame. Do not overlook the importance of international travel insurance or student travel insurance. It acts as a safety net against medical emergencies, trip exigencies or unforeseen events during your stay in Canada. Whether it is a long-term degree or a short diploma course, having Canadian travel insurance will give you assurance and security. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate through the visa process and start your academic journey in one of the most student-friendly countries in the world.

FAQs

1. Is it mandatory to have travel insurance for a Canadian student visa?

Why is it not always mandatory for many Institutions and provinces to request students to have student travel insurance? It is highly recommended due to the high Healthcare costs in Canada.

2. How long does the visa process take?

The processing time for a Canadian student visa can range from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on your country and application volume.

3. Can I work while studying in Canada?

International students on a study visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during scheduled breaks.

4. When should I buy international travel insurance for a Canadian visa?

It is advisable to purchase travel insurance online or Canadian travel insurance as soon as your visa is approved to ensure continuous coverage the moment you land in the country.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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