Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for international students, with over 364,000 approved study permits in 2024. Its diverse student population creates a vibrant, multicultural environment that supports learning and personal growth.
The Canadian government facilitates international education through two primary visa categories:
- The Study Direct Stream (SDS) – The SDS provides a simple process for students from select countries.
- The Non-SDS (General Category) – The Non-SDS pathway is available to applicants worldwide, accommodating those who may not meet the specific criteria of the SDS.
Understanding the difference between these visa categories is crucial for prospective students. The Non-SDS pathway, in particular, offers a viable route for many aspiring to study in Canada, ensuring that opportunities remain accessible to a broad range of applicants.
This blog will discuss the Non-SDS process, covering eligibility criteria, required documentation, financial prerequisites, and the application procedure.
Browse at your own leisure or use the quick links below to find what you need rapidly.
- Eligibility for Non-SDS Students
- Application Process for Non-SDS Students
- List of Documents Required for Non-SDS Study Visa
- Processing Time and Cost for Non-SDS Study Permit
- Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS
- Post Visa Approval: What to Expect
- Simplify Your Study Visa Process
Eligibility for Non-SDS Students
The Non-SDS (Study Visa General Category) pathway is suitable for international students who do not meet the Study Direct Stream (SDS) criteria. This option allows you from any country to pursue higher education in Canada, provided you fulfill the eligibility requirements by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
You would need to secure admission and provide a valid acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada in order to be considered for the Non-SDS Student Visa. A DLI is a government-approved institution authorized to host international students.
Financial Proof
- Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees for their chosen program
- Living expenses for applicants and any accompanying family members during the stay in Canada (typically around CAD 10,000 per year for a single student)
- Return transportation costs for themselves and their family members.
Compliance with Canadian Laws
Candidates must adhere to Canadian laws and provide evidence of a clean criminal record, including a police clearance certificate if requested.
Medical Fitness
Applicants may need to undergo a medical examination, depending on their country of residence or the duration of their stay.
Temporary Residency Intent
Applicants must convince the visa officer that they intend to leave Canada upon the expiration of their study permit.
Application Process for Non-SDS Visa
The Non-SDS (General Category) study permit application process is detailed and requires careful preparation.
Surrey Immigration Consultancy can help make this process easier for you by helping you fill out all the necessary forms and checking the eligibility for you.
Before You Apply: Do You Need a Study Permit?
In most cases, foreign nationals must obtain a study permit to pursue education in Canada. However, exemptions exist for specific individuals, including:
- Family members or private staff accompanying foreign representatives accredited by Global Affairs Canada.
- Members of a country’s armed forces designated under the Visiting Forces Act.
A study permit is also not required for:
- Attending preschool.
- Completing a distance learning program.
- Auditing courses (attending without earning credits).
- Courses included in tourist packages.
- General interest or non-academic programs that can be completed within the authorized entry period.
- Short-term programs (six months or less) that conclude within the authorized stay.
Important Note: If your program is short-term (six months or less) but you intend to pursue further studies afterward, it is advisable to apply for a study permit before arriving in Canada. Without a permit, extensions may require applying from outside Canada.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Below is a detailed guide to help you gather the necessary documents for your submission.
Document Checklist
Use the official Document Checklist [IMM 5483] on the IRCC website to ensure all required documents are included. The checklist provides a comprehensive list of items needed for your application and varies based on where and how you apply. Consult the specific instructions provided by the visa office in your region.
Translation of Documents
Suppose any of your documents are not in English or French. In that case, you must include a certified translation in English or French and an affidavit from the translator (if they are not certified in Canada). You can take translator services from websites Immitranslate, Gts Translate, or Polilingua.
Acceptable Translators
Translators must be fluent in English or French and the source language. Canadian-certified translators must also be members of a recognized provincial or territorial organization.
Non-certified translators must provide an affidavit confirming their proficiency and the translation’s accuracy, sworn before a notary public or appropriate official (in Canada: notary public, commissioner of oaths, or commissioner of taking affidavits). The applicant’s relatives, including parents, siblings, and spouses, are not permitted to translate.
Certified True Copies of Documents
Photocopies of original documents must be certified to confirm their authenticity. Certified copies must include the following details:
- A statement: “I certify that this is a true copy of the original document.”
- Name of the original document.
- Date of certification.
- Name, title, and signature of the authorized person certifying the document.
Authorized Certifiers
- In Canada: Notary public, commissioner of oaths, or commissioner of taking affidavits.
- Outside Canada: Notary public or an authorized certifier as determined by local authorities.
Necessary: Certification cannot be done by the applicant or their family members.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Completing the application for a non-SDS study permit involves filling out a series of forms and providing accurate, verifiable information. It is crucial to follow this step carefully, as errors or omissions may delay or jeopardize your application.
- Required Forms
Applicants must complete and submit the following forms as part of their study permit application:
- Application for Study Permit Made Outside of Canada (IMM 1294): This is the primary form for requesting a study permit.
- Family Information (IMM 5707): Provides details about your family members.
- Document Checklist (IMM 5483): Ensures you have included all necessary documents.
- Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409): Required if you are in a common-law relationship.
- Custodianship Declaration – Custodian for Minors Studying in Canada (IMM 5646): Mandatory for minors traveling to Canada without a parent or guardian.
- Use of a Representative (IMM 5476): Required if you appoint someone to represent you during the application process.
- Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM 5475): This is needed if you authorize someone to receive information about your application.
Note: Visa officers may request additional documents based on the specifics of your case.
- Accurate and Complete Submission
Incomplete applications may be rejected, causing delays in processing. Surrey Immigration Consultancy specializes in ensuring that your immigration applications are accurate, complete, and submitted with confidence.
Our team assists applicants in meticulously filling out all sections of the application form, ensuring every detail is correct and aligned with official requirements. With our expertise, you can avoid common errors, omissions, or delays, streamlining your immigration process.
- Notify IRCC About Changes
If your personal information or representative’s details change after applying, notify IRCC immediately using the Web Form. Prompt updates ensure your application process proceeds without complications. Surrey Immigration Consultancy is diligent in monitoring any changes or updates and helps notify the right authorities in case any modifications are needed.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
Once you have completed your application, the next step is to pay the required fees. There are two main types of fees involved in the application process for a Non-SDS study permit:
- Application Processing Fee
This is the primary fee ($150) for processing your study permit application. You must pay it when you submit your application.
- Biometrics Fee
Biometric information is required for non-SDS visa applications to verify identity, prevent fraud, and ensure security. Fingerprints and photographs help confirm the applicant’s identity, conduct background checks, and link the visa to the individual’s physical identity, reducing risks of misuse or forgery. This extra layer of security is especially important for non-SDS applicants, who undergo a more detailed evaluation compared to the streamlined SDS category. Biometrics are also used at border entry to validate the traveler’s identity.
If you or your family members are required to provide biometric information (such as fingerprints and a photograph), a separate biometric fee will apply. To avoid any delays in processing, this fee should be paid at the same time as the application processing fee.
Surrey Immigration Consultancy is there to help with all your payments and fees, so you won’t have to worry about mistakes or hidden costs.
How to Calculate Your Total Fees
To determine the total amount you must pay, consult the relevant fee schedule provided by the Canadian immigration authorities. Be sure to include both the application processing fee and, if applicable, the biometric fee. Note: Fees are generally listed in Canadian dollars, but depending on where you apply, you may need to pay in your local currency. Important Considerations Before Paying Fees Before paying any fees, confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements to apply for a study permit and have gathered all necessary documents. Fees will not be refunded, regardless of the final decision on your application. For example, if your application is denied due to ineligibility, the costs will still not be refunded. If you choose to reapply, you will be required to pay both the application processing fee and, if applicable, the biometric fee again. Surrey Immigration Consultancy helps you check whether you need to pay a certain fee or is it possible to avoid it. Incorrect Fee Payments If the payment is incorrect or incomplete, it can delay the processing of your application. Here’s how the application will be handled based on different payment issues:
|
Step 4: Submit the Application
Once your application is submitted, it will undergo a thorough review by an immigration officer. The officer will carefully assess all the information and documentation you have provided to determine whether additional steps, such as an interview, are necessary. If an interview is required, you will receive a letter detailing the interview’s date, time, and location.
If Your Application Is Refused
If your application is not approved, you will be informed of the decision, and any original documents, including your passport (if submitted), will be returned to you. You will also receive an explanation of the reasons behind the refusal, which can help you understand the issues that must be addressed if you wish to reapply.
Note: If an officer suspects that fraudulent documents were submitted with your application, those documents will not be returned.
If Your Application Is Approved
If your application is approved, the officer will return any identity documents, including your passport (if submitted). Along with your documents, you will receive a letter of introduction confirming your approval.
It is important to note that the letter of introduction is not the study permit itself. You must present this letter at the Port of Entry when you arrive in Canada, where you will receive your actual study permit.
List of Documents Required for Non-SDS Study Visa
When applying for a Non-SDS study permit, providing all the required documentation to support your application is essential. Below is a list of documents that you will need to submit, along with essential details to keep in mind:
Letter of Acceptance
You must provide a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The letter should be issued on the institution’s official letterhead and must include your program of study, the course duration, tuition fees, and the start and end dates of your program.
Proof of Funds
You must show proof of enough funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members, and return transportation for everyone. Acceptable proof includes bank statements from the last four to six months, affidavits or proof of financial support from a sponsor (if applicable), evidence of a Canadian bank account (if applicable), or a letter from a financial institution confirming the availability of funds.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada. Ensure it has at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
Language Proficiency Test Result
Depending on your program requirements, you may be required to provide language proficiency test results, such as the IELTS or TOEFL.
Immigration Medical Examination (IME)
If requested by the immigration officer, you must submit the results of an Immigration Medical Examination (IME) to confirm your health. This may be required if you have lived or traveled to certain countries for extended periods.
Police Certificate
If required, you must submit a police certificate to prove you have no criminal record. This is requested for applicants who have lived in certain countries for a specified period.
Family Information Form (IMM 5707)
You must complete and submit the Family Information Form (IMM 5707), which provides details about your family members, including dependents.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Some applicants may be required to submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why they wish to study in Canada, how the chosen program fits their future goals, and their intent to return home after completing their studies.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)
If you are applying to study outside of Quebec, you must provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) issued by the province or territory you plan to study. If you intend to study in Quebec, you need the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
Additional Documents
Depending on your specific circumstances, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as:
- Custodianship Declaration for minors studying in Canada.
- Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (if applicable).
- Use of a Representative Form (IMM 5476) (if applicable).
- Authority to release personal information form (if applicable).
Processing Time and Cost for Non-SDS Study Permit
Processing times for study permits can vary depending on the visa office and the specific details of your application. To check the most current processing times, visit the Application Processing Times webpage on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Checking Application Status
You can track the status of your application online by visiting the Check Application Status page. If you cannot access your status, you can contact the IRCC for updates. Be aware that there may be steps to remove your application status information from the website, and you can find details in the FAQ section.
Application Fees
- Study permit (per person): CAD 150
- Biometric fees: Individual (per person): CAD 85 / Family (two or more people applying at the same time): CAD 170
Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS
Below is a comparison of some of the important differences between the SDS and Non-SDS pathways:
Criteria | SDS | Non-SDS |
Eligibility | Must be from specific countries (e.g., India, China) | Available to students from countries not covered by SDS |
Processing Time | Typically faster (approx. 20 days) | Longer processing times (can vary based on location) |
Proof of Funds | Must show proof of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,000 and tuition fees | Must provide proof of sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and return travel |
Language Requirement | Must provide proof of IELTS score (minimum band of 6.0) | No specific language test requirement, but you may need to show proof of language proficiency |
Documents Required | Limited documents, streamlined process | More documents are required, including financial documents, medical exams, etc. |
Medical Examination | Not required for most applicants | It may be required depending on the applicant’s country and health status |
Biometric Fee | CAD 85 per individual or CAD 170 for a family | CAD 85 per individual or CAD 170 for a family |
Post Visa Approval: What to Expect
Once your study permit application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction and a visa (if applicable) confirming the approval. Here’s what happens next:
- Letter of Introduction: This letter is not a study permit but proves that your study permit has been approved. You must present this letter upon arrival at the Canadian port of entry. The immigration officer will then issue your study permit at the border.
- Visa (if required): If you are from a visa-required country, you will receive a visa affixed to your passport, allowing you to travel to Canada.
- Entering Canada: Upon arrival, show the letter of introduction to the Canadian immigration officer and other required documents. The officer will issue your study permit, allowing you to begin your studies in Canada. Remember, the study permit is your primary document for staying in Canada as a student.
- Study Permit Validity: Your study permit is valid for the duration of your program of study. Ensure you understand the expiry date and the conditions of your study permit. To extend your stay, you must apply for a study permit extension before the current one expires.
Adhere to all regulations and conditions associated with your study permit to stay legally in Canada.
Simplify Your Study Visa Process: Get Started with Surrey Immigration Consultancy
Surrey Immigration Consultancy is dedicated to making your Canada study visa journey smooth and successful. With our expert guidance, we help you at every step—from selecting the right course to handling all visa requirements. Our team ensures you’re well-prepared for Canada’s world-class education and vibrant culture, empowering you to study confidently.
We offer services like:
- Institute Selection: Helping you choose the right educational institution based on your goals.
- Eligibility & Admission Support: Ensuring you meet admission requirements and securing your acceptance.
- Financial Assistance: Guidance on education loans and financial documentation.
- IELTS Training: Preparing you for language proficiency tests.
- Study Visa Application: Handling the complete visa application process.
- Pre-Departure Counseling: Preparing you for life in Canada.
- Post-Study Work & PR Guidance: Assisting with post-graduation work permits and permanent residency options.
- Family Visa Assistance: Helping bring your loved ones with you to Canada.
Studying in Canada is more than just an academic decision—it’s a life-changing experience. With Surrey Immigration Consultancy, the visa process is simple and focused on your success. Begin your journey today, and let’s make your Canadian dream a reality!
Contact Us for more information! ow to find what you need rapidly.
- Eligibility for Non-SDS Students
- Application process for Non-SDS Students
- List of Documents Required
- Processing Time and …
- Difference Between
- Post Visa Approval
- Simplify Your Study …
Eligibility for Non-SDS Students
The Non-SDS (Study Visa General Category) pathway is suitable for international students who do not meet the Study Direct Stream (SDS) criteria. This option allows you from any country to pursue higher education in Canada, provided you fulfill the eligibility requirements by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
You would need to secure admission and provide a valid acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada in order to be considered for the Non-SDS Student Visa. A DLI is a government-approved institution authorized to host international students.
Financial Proof
- Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees for their chosen program
- Living expenses for applicants and any accompanying family members during the stay in Canada (typically around CAD 10,000 per year for a single student)
- Return transportation costs for themselves and their family members.
Compliance with Canadian Laws
Candidates must adhere to Canadian laws and provide evidence of a clean criminal record, including a police clearance certificate if requested.
Medical Fitness
Applicants may need to undergo a medical examination, depending on their country of residence or the duration of their stay.
Temporary Residency Intent
Applicants must convince the visa officer that they intend to leave Canada upon the expiration of their study permit.
Application Process for Non-SDS Visa
The Non-SDS (General Category) study permit application process is detailed and requires careful preparation.
Surrey Immigration Consultancy can help make this process easier for you by helping you fill out all the necessary forms and checking the eligibility for you.
Before You Apply: Do You Need a Study Permit?
In most cases, foreign nationals must obtain a study permit to pursue education in Canada. However, exemptions exist for specific individuals, including:
- Family members or private staff accompanying foreign representatives accredited by Global Affairs Canada.
- Members of a country’s armed forces designated under the Visiting Forces Act.
A study permit is also not required for:
- Attending preschool.
- Completing a distance learning program.
- Auditing courses (attending without earning credits).
- Courses included in tourist packages.
- General interest or non-academic programs that can be completed within the authorized entry period.
- Short-term programs (six months or less) that conclude within the authorized stay.
Important Note: If your program is short-term (six months or less) but you intend to pursue further studies afterward, it is advisable to apply for a study permit before arriving in Canada. Without a permit, extensions may require applying from outside Canada.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Below is a detailed guide to help you gather the necessary documents for your submission.
Document Checklist
Use the official Document Checklist [IMM 5483] on the IRCC website to ensure all required documents are included. The checklist provides a comprehensive list of items needed for your application and varies based on where and how you apply. Consult the specific instructions provided by the visa office in your region.
Translation of Documents
Suppose any of your documents are not in English or French. In that case, you must include a certified translation in English or French and an affidavit from the translator (if they are not certified in Canada). You can take translator services from websites Immitranslate, Gts Translate, or Polilingua.
Acceptable Translators
Translators must be fluent in English or French and the source language. Canadian-certified translators must also be members of a recognized provincial or territorial organization.
Non-certified translators must provide an affidavit confirming their proficiency and the translation’s accuracy, sworn before a notary public or appropriate official (in Canada: notary public, commissioner of oaths, or commissioner of taking affidavits). The applicant’s relatives, including parents, siblings, and spouses, are not permitted to translate.
Certified True Copies of Documents
Photocopies of original documents must be certified to confirm their authenticity. Certified copies must include the following details:
- A statement: “I certify that this is a true copy of the original document.”
- Name of the original document.
- Date of certification.
- Name, title, and signature of the authorized person certifying the document.
Authorized Certifiers
- In Canada: Notary public, commissioner of oaths, or commissioner of taking affidavits.
- Outside Canada: Notary public or an authorized certifier as determined by local authorities.
Necessary: Certification cannot be done by the applicant or their family members.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Completing the application for a non-SDS study permit involves filling out a series of forms and providing accurate, verifiable information. It is crucial to follow this step carefully, as errors or omissions may delay or jeopardize your application.
- Required Forms
Applicants must complete and submit the following forms as part of their study permit application:
- Application for Study Permit Made Outside of Canada (IMM 1294): This is the primary form for requesting a study permit.
- Family Information (IMM 5707): Provides details about your family members.
- Document Checklist (IMM 5483): Ensures you have included all necessary documents.
- Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409): Required if you are in a common-law relationship.
- Custodianship Declaration – Custodian for Minors Studying in Canada (IMM 5646): Mandatory for minors traveling to Canada without a parent or guardian.
- Use of a Representative (IMM 5476): Required if you appoint someone to represent you during the application process.
- Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM 5475): This is needed if you authorize someone to receive information about your application.
Note: Visa officers may request additional documents based on the specifics of your case.
- Accurate and Complete Submission
Incomplete applications may be rejected, causing delays in processing. Surrey Immigration Consultancy specializes in ensuring that your immigration applications are accurate, complete, and submitted with confidence.
Our team assists applicants in meticulously filling out all sections of the application form, ensuring every detail is correct and aligned with official requirements. With our expertise, you can avoid common errors, omissions, or delays, streamlining your immigration process.
- Notify IRCC About Changes
If your personal information or representative’s details change after applying, notify IRCC immediately using the Web Form. Prompt updates ensure your application process proceeds without complications. Surrey Immigration Consultancy is diligent in monitoring any changes or updates and helps notify the right authorities in case any modifications are needed.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
Once you have completed your application, the next step is to pay the required fees. There are two main types of fees involved in the application process for a Non-SDS study permit:
- Application Processing Fee
This is the primary fee ($150) for processing your study permit application. You must pay it when you submit your application.
- Biometrics Fee
Biometric information is required for non-SDS visa applications to verify identity, prevent fraud, and ensure security. Fingerprints and photographs help confirm the applicant’s identity, conduct background checks, and link the visa to the individual’s physical identity, reducing risks of misuse or forgery. This extra layer of security is especially important for non-SDS applicants, who undergo a more detailed evaluation compared to the streamlined SDS category. Biometrics are also used at border entry to validate the traveler’s identity.
If you or your family members are required to provide biometric information (such as fingerprints and a photograph), a separate biometric fee will apply. To avoid any delays in processing, this fee should be paid at the same time as the application processing fee.
Surrey Immigration Consultancy is there to help with all your payments and fees, so you won’t have to worry about mistakes or hidden costs.
How to Calculate Your Total Fees
To determine the total amount you must pay, consult the relevant fee schedule provided by the Canadian immigration authorities. Be sure to include both the application processing fee and, if applicable, the biometric fee. Note: Fees are generally listed in Canadian dollars, but depending on where you apply, you may need to pay in your local currency. Important Considerations Before Paying Fees Before paying any fees, confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements to apply for a study permit and have gathered all necessary documents. Fees will not be refunded, regardless of the final decision on your application. For example, if your application is denied due to ineligibility, the costs will still not be refunded. If you choose to reapply, you will be required to pay both the application processing fee and, if applicable, the biometric fee again. Surrey Immigration Consultancy helps you check whether you need to pay a certain fee or is it possible to avoid it. Incorrect Fee Payments If the payment is incorrect or incomplete, it can delay the processing of your application. Here’s how the application will be handled based on different payment issues:
|
Step 4: Submit the Application
Once your application is submitted, it will undergo a thorough review by an immigration officer. The officer will carefully assess all the information and documentation you have provided to determine whether additional steps, such as an interview, are necessary. If an interview is required, you will receive a letter detailing the interview’s date, time, and location.
If Your Application Is Refused
If your application is not approved, you will be informed of the decision, and any original documents, including your passport (if submitted), will be returned to you. You will also receive an explanation of the reasons behind the refusal, which can help you understand the issues that must be addressed if you wish to reapply.
Note: If an officer suspects that fraudulent documents were submitted with your application, those documents will not be returned.
If Your Application Is Approved
If your application is approved, the officer will return any identity documents, including your passport (if submitted). Along with your documents, you will receive a letter of introduction confirming your approval.
It is important to note that the letter of introduction is not the study permit itself. You must present this letter at the Port of Entry when you arrive in Canada, where you will receive your actual study permit.
List of Documents Required for Non-SDS Study Visa
When applying for a Non-SDS study permit, providing all the required documentation to support your application is essential. Below is a list of documents that you will need to submit, along with essential details to keep in mind:
Letter of Acceptance
You must provide a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The letter should be issued on the institution’s official letterhead and must include your program of study, the course duration, tuition fees, and the start and end dates of your program.
Proof of Funds
You must show proof of enough funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members, and return transportation for everyone. Acceptable proof includes bank statements from the last four to six months, affidavits or proof of financial support from a sponsor (if applicable), evidence of a Canadian bank account (if applicable), or a letter from a financial institution confirming the availability of funds.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada. Ensure it has at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
Language Proficiency Test Result
Depending on your program requirements, you may be required to provide language proficiency test results, such as the IELTS or TOEFL.
Immigration Medical Examination (IME)
If requested by the immigration officer, you must submit the results of an Immigration Medical Examination (IME) to confirm your health. This may be required if you have lived or traveled to certain countries for extended periods.
Police Certificate
If required, you must submit a police certificate to prove you have no criminal record. This is requested for applicants who have lived in certain countries for a specified period.
Family Information Form (IMM 5707)
You must complete and submit the Family Information Form (IMM 5707), which provides details about your family members, including dependents.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Some applicants may be required to submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why they wish to study in Canada, how the chosen program fits their future goals, and their intent to return home after completing their studies.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)
If you are applying to study outside of Quebec, you must provide a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) issued by the province or territory you plan to study. If you intend to study in Quebec, you need the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).
Additional Documents
Depending on your specific circumstances, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as:
- Custodianship Declaration for minors studying in Canada.
- Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (if applicable).
- Use of a Representative Form (IMM 5476) (if applicable).
- Authority to release personal information form (if applicable).
Processing Time and Cost for Non-SDS Study Permit
Processing times for study permits can vary depending on the visa office and the specific details of your application. To check the most current processing times, visit the Application Processing Times webpage on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Checking Application Status
You can track the status of your application online by visiting the Check Application Status page. If you cannot access your status, you can contact the IRCC for updates. Be aware that there may be steps to remove your application status information from the website, and you can find details in the FAQ section.
Application Fees
- Study permit (per person): CAD 150
- Biometric fees: Individual (per person): CAD 85 / Family (two or more people applying at the same time): CAD 170
Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS
Below is a comparison of some of the important differences between the SDS and Non-SDS pathways:
Criteria | SDS | Non-SDS |
Eligibility | Must be from specific countries (e.g., India, China) | Available to students from countries not covered by SDS |
Processing Time | Typically faster (approx. 20 days) | Longer processing times (can vary based on location) |
Proof of Funds | Must show proof of a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,000 and tuition fees | Must provide proof of sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and return travel |
Language Requirement | Must provide proof of IELTS score (minimum band of 6.0) | No specific language test requirement, but you may need to show proof of language proficiency |
Documents Required | Limited documents, streamlined process | More documents are required, including financial documents, medical exams, etc. |
Medical Examination | Not required for most applicants | It may be required depending on the applicant’s country and health status |
Biometric Fee | CAD 85 per individual or CAD 170 for a family | CAD 85 per individual or CAD 170 for a family |
Post Visa Approval: What to Expect
Once your study permit application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction and a visa (if applicable) confirming the approval. Here’s what happens next:
- Letter of Introduction: This letter is not a study permit but proves that your study permit has been approved. You must present this letter upon arrival at the Canadian port of entry. The immigration officer will then issue your study permit at the border.
- Visa (if required): If you are from a visa-required country, you will receive a visa affixed to your passport, allowing you to travel to Canada.
- Entering Canada: Upon arrival, show the letter of introduction to the Canadian immigration officer and other required documents. The officer will issue your study permit, allowing you to begin your studies in Canada. Remember, the study permit is your primary document for staying in Canada as a student.
- Study Permit Validity: Your study permit is valid for the duration of your program of study. Ensure you understand the expiry date and the conditions of your study permit. To extend your stay, you must apply for a study permit extension before the current one expires.
Adhere to all regulations and conditions associated with your study permit to stay legally in Canada.
Simplify Your Study Visa Process: Get Started with Surrey Immigration Consultancy
Surrey Immigration Consultancy is dedicated to making your Canada study visa journey smooth and successful. With our expert guidance, we help you at every step—from selecting the right course to handling all visa requirements. Our team ensures you’re well-prepared for Canada’s world-class education and vibrant culture, empowering you to study confidently.
We offer services like:
- Institute Selection: Helping you choose the right educational institution based on your goals.
- Eligibility & Admission Support: Ensuring you meet admission requirements and securing your acceptance.
- Financial Assistance: Guidance on education loans and financial documentation.
- IELTS Training: Preparing you for language proficiency tests.
- Study Visa Application: Handling the complete visa application process.
- Pre-Departure Counseling: Preparing you for life in Canada.
- Post-Study Work & PR Guidance: Assisting with post-graduation work permits and permanent residency options.
- Family Visa Assistance: Helping bring your loved ones with you to Canada.
Studying in Canada is more than just an academic decision—it’s a life-changing experience. With Surrey Immigration Consultancy, the visa process is simple and focused on your success. Begin your journey today, and let’s make your Canadian dream a reality!
Contact Us for more information!