Planning to study in Canada from India is an exciting journey, but before booking the flight, it is crucial to understand the visa process. For most international students, obtaining a Canadian study visa, also known as a study permit, is a mandatory step.
What is a Canada Study Visa?
The Canada study visa, officially known as a study permit, is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It allows foreign students to pursue academic, professional, or vocational studies at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
A study permit is generally valid for the duration of your program plus an additional 90 days, giving you time to prepare to leave Canada or extend your stay. While it allows part-time work during studies, it is not a permanent residency document.
To apply, Indian students must show proof of admission from a DLI, financial stability, a clear study plan, and ties to their home country.
Application Time for Canada Study Visa
The Canada study visa processing time for Indian students typically ranges from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on several factors such as the intake season. The processing time also depends on several factors, such as the intake season, the completeness of your application, and the stream you apply through.
Regular stream: Around 10–12 weeks.
Student Direct Stream (SDS): Often processed faster, usually within 20 calendar days, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.
Processing times may increase during peak intake periods (September and January), so it’s recommended to apply at least 3–6 months before your course begins.
Factors Affecting Processing Time for a Canadian Study Visa
The time taken to process a Canada Study Visa application can vary depending on multiple factors. While Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides an estimated timeline, real cases often differ due to the following reasons:
Completeness of Application – Missing documents, incomplete forms, or errors in the application can lead to delays, as IRCC may request additional information or clarification.
Country of Application – Processing times differ by country. Applications filed from regions with higher demand or security concerns may take longer to review.
Verification of Documents – Academic transcripts, financial proof, and language test results often require additional checks, especially if IRCC needs to verify their authenticity with institutions.
Biometrics and Medical Exams – Delays in scheduling or completing biometrics and medical examinations can extend the overall processing time.
Background and Security Checks – Applicants with extensive travel history, prior visa refusals, or complex background checks may experience longer review periods.
Peak Application Seasons – During intake seasons (typically May and September), IRCC receives a surge of applications, which can slow down processing times.
Response Time from Applicant – If IRCC requests further documents or clarification, the speed at which the applicant responds directly affects the overall timeline.
Policy or System Changes – Any updates in Canadian immigration laws, system upgrades, or global events (such as pandemics or geopolitical shifts) can also impact timelines.
Average Processing Steps & Timelines for Canada Study Visa
Document Review: Usually within 1–3 weeks
Biometrics: Usually within 1 week
Medical Examination: Usually within 1–2 weeks
Background/Security Check: Usually within 2–6 weeks
Final Decision & Passport Request: Usually within 4–8 weeks
Canada Study Visa Fees
Applying for a Canadian study visa comes with standard charges set by IRCC. Apart from the visa fees, students must also consider biometrics and additional service costs.
Study permit application fee: CAD $150
Biometrics fee: CAD $85
Multiple-entry Temporary Resident Visa (if required): CAD $100
Additional expenses may include medical exams, courier services, and translation of documents into English or French. All fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
Canada Study Visa Eligibility Criteria
Beyond submitting documents, students must meet certain eligibility criteria, like proof of funds, passport validity, and financial means. to qualify for a Canadian Study Visa. These conditions prove that you are a genuine student with financial and personal stability.
Meeting these conditions strengthens your application and significantly reduces the risk of refusal.
Securing a Canadian study visa is the gateway to beginning your academic journey in one of the world’s most sought-after education destinations. Whether you choose the regular stream or the faster Student Direct Stream (SDS), applying early is the best way to avoid delays and start your studies in Canada on time.