How to Apply for a Student Visa in Canada

How to Apply for a Student Visa in Canada (2025 Guide)
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students, offering world-class education, multicultural campuses, and post-study work opportunities. If you're planning to study in Canada, securing a student visa (study permit) is one of the most important steps.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for a Canadian student visa in 2025.

✏️ Step 1: Get Your Letter of Acceptance
Before applying for a visa, you must receive an admission letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.

👉 Make sure the institution is listed as a DLI, or your visa may be rejected.

🧾 Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need to prepare the following documents:

Valid passport

Letter of acceptance from a Canadian institution (DLI)

Proof of funds (minimum CAD $20,635 per year for living expenses + tuition)

Passport-size photographs

Statement of purpose (SOP)

Police clearance certificate

Medical examination report (if required)

English language proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL)

🌐 Step 3: Apply Online for a Study Permit
You can apply online through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website:

🔗 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html

Create an account, fill out the forms, upload documents, and pay the application fee (CAD $150).

💳 Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee
Application Fee: CAD $150

Biometrics Fee (if applicable): CAD $85

You can pay using a credit/debit card on the IRCC portal.

👁 Step 5: Submit Biometrics
After applying, you may receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL).

Book an appointment at your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC)

Submit fingerprints and a photo

⏳ Step 6: Wait for Visa Processing
Visa processing times vary by country but usually take 2 to 8 weeks.

You can check your application status on the IRCC portal.

📧 Step 7: Get Your Study Permit Approval
If approved:

You’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction

If you're from a visa-required country, you'll get a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) stamped in your passport

✈️ You’ll receive the actual study permit when you arrive at a Canadian airport.

📝 Tips for a Successful Application
✅ Start the process early — at least 4–6 months before your course starts
✅ Show clear proof of genuine intent to study
✅ Prepare strong financial and academic documents
✅ Double-check everything before submission

🧳 Ready to Study in Canada?
Applying for a Canadian student visa can seem complex, but with the right guidance and preparation, it’s entirely achievable. Whether you're aiming to study at top universities in Canada or explore work opportunities after graduation, your journey starts with the right visa.

Need help with your application? Contact our student visa experts today!