CANADA STUDY VISA
SDS (STUDY DIRECT STREAM) SYSTEM.
Presently 3 types of Visa systems are prevalent for study visas of Canada.
- Visa under the University System
- Visa under the SDS System
- Visa under Non-SDS system
FEATURES FOR NON-SDS PROGRAMME IN CANADA FOR INDIANS
In the context of Canadian student visas, the Non-SDS (Non-Student Direct Stream) category refers to the general study permit application process, which is different from the streamlined SDS process. Here are some key features of the Non-SDS category:
- Minimum 10+2 requirement with good academics
- More comprehensive documentation is required compared to SDS. This includes proof of financial capacity, academic records, and other supporting documents.
- Processing times are longer as compared to SDS applications.
- Applicants must provide detailed proof of financial resources, including bank statements, FDR, Savings account statements for the last 6 months, and Education Loans from recognized and standard banks to show they can support themselves during their studies in Canada. If the student deposits 6 6-month fees, then the student has to show funds for the rest 6 months of the fee plus one year of Living expenses of CAD 20635. If a student pays 1-year fee then has to show one year of living expenses of CAD 20635 which should be 6 months old and required for Higher education in Canada.
- There is no specific requirement for IELTS or other language tests in Non-SDS, but evidence of language proficiency might still be necessary depending on the institution’s requirements. Better to have 6 bands or PTE 59 scores overall with no less than 54 in any module for 10+2 students qualified and 6.5 bands with no less than 6 each or PTE 62 scores with no less than 58 in any module are more acceptable for visa achievers.
- Biometrics (fingerprints and photos) are required as part of the application process.
These features make the Non-SDS pathway a viable option for students who do not meet the criteria for SDS but still wish to study in Canada.
FEATURES AND RULES OF SDS PROGRAM CANADA FOR INDIA
As per the new rules, the SDS program has some special conditions and rules for Indian Students which are as follows:
- Minimum requirement of IELTS: For Undergraduate course: 6 bands in each module; For Post Graduate Course: Overall 6.5 Bands (with no band less than 6 in each module)
- Medical examination at least 1 week before submission of the application.
- SDS program is launched in conjunction with Scotia Bank/ICICI Bank to fulfill GIC requirements.
- Study Direct streamline has fastened up the process of study visas for Indian Students.
- Systematically visa processing for all SDS colleges & institutions.
- 1-year fee payment of the tuition fees is a must.
- Fewer documentation requirements.
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $10,000 from Scotia Bank / ICICI Bank must be bought, to cover living expenses for one year.
- SDS program has replaced the SPP system in India for Canadian Education.
ADVANTAGES OF STUDENT DIRECT STREAM (SDS) PROGRAM
But the most popular among all of the three is the SDS System. The following are the benefits of the SDS system
- Smoother visa process for all SDS-entitled institutions.
- Less monetary documentation.
- Faster visa processing time.
- Priority for a visa from the Canadian High Commission.
INTAKES
There are three intakes during the year in all of the colleges and universities in Canada.
- Fall – (Begins in September intake)
- Winter – (Begins in January intake)
- Summer – (Begins in May intake).
Admissions are open throughout the year.
Link for complete information on Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
Major intake in Canada is September followed by January and May.
Canada Study Visa Requirements & APPLICATION FEES
The application fees vary from Fees Waiver to CAD 200 depending upon College to college / University to Universities. The admission process takes 4 days to 2 months depending upon College / University.
VISA FILING
Presently the Canada Study Visa or Spouse dependent Visa is filed online through an immigration account. For Filing a visa, we need the following documents:-
Credit card or Debit Card international is acceptable for payment of Embassy fees. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the fees for Canadian visas, including those for spouses and dependents for Canadian visas categories:-
1. Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) Fee
- Application Fee: CAD 100 per person.
- Family Application Fee: CAD 500 for a family of five or more.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person; CAD 170 for a family applying together.
2. Study Permit Fee
- Application Fee: CAD 150 per person.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person.
- Spouse/Partner (Open Work Permit): CAD 155.
- Dependent Child (Study Permit): CAD 150.
3. Work Permit (We do not deal in Work Permits) Fee
- Application Fee: CAD 155 per person.
- Biometric Fee: CAD 85 per person.
- Spouse/Partner (Open Work Permit): CAD 155.
- Dependent Child (Study Permit): CAD 150.
4. Permanent Residence Fee
- Principal Applicant: CAD 1,365 (includes the right of permanent residence fee).
- Spouse or Common-law Partner: CAD 1,365 (includes the right of permanent residence fee).
- Dependent Child: CAD 230 per child.
5. Family Sponsorship (Spouse, Partner, or Child) Fee
- Sponsorship Fee: CAD 75.
- Principal Applicant Processing Fee: CAD 475.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD 515.
- Dependent Child: CAD 150 per child.
- Spouse or Partner: CAD 1,080 (including sponsorship and right of permanent residence fees).
6. Restoration of Status Fee
- Visitor Status: CAD 200.
- Student Status: CAD 350.
- Worker Status: CAD 355.
7. Authorization to Return to Canada Fee
- Application Fee: CAD 400.
8. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) Fee
- Application Fee: CAD 200.
9. Biometric Fee:
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- Individual Applicant: CAD 85.
- Family (2 or more applicants): CAD 170.
- Group of Performing Artists (3 or more): CAD 255.
It is essential to note that fees are non-refundable and are subject to change. Always refer to the official IRCC website or authorized resources for the most up-to-date fee information.
ADMISSION PROCESS & DOCUMENTS REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL VISA CATEGORIES
Below are the general document requirements for various Canadian visas, including academic requirements for study permits:
These are general requirements and may vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific visa category. Always check the official IRCC website or consult with an immigration expert for the most accurate and detailed information.
Here is an updated list of the document requirements for various Canadian visas, including the necessary documents for spouses and dependents:
- Study Permit
- Main Applicant:
- Letter of Acceptance: From a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, scholarship letters, or student loans.
- Passport: Valid for the duration of study.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Statement of Purpose: Explanation of study goals.
- Educational Documents: Transcripts, diplomas, or certificates.
- Language Proficiency: IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL scores.
- Biometrics: Required.
- Spouse and Dependents:
- Spouse: Application for an open work permit or visitor visa.
- Dependents: Application for study or visitor visa.
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate or birth certificate.
- Proof of Financial Support: Additional financial documents to cover family members.
- Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
- Main Applicant:
- Passport: Valid for the duration of stay.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, pay stubs, or a letter of financial support.
- Purpose of Visit: Letter of invitation or travel itinerary.
- Ties to Home Country: Evidence of employment, family, or property.
- Biometrics: Required.
- Spouse and Dependents:
- Passport: Valid for the duration of stay.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate or birth certificates for children.
- Financial Support: Same as the main applicant.
- Work Permit (Sunland does not deal in WP)
- Main Applicant:
- Job Offer Letter: From a Canadian employer.
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): If applicable.
- Passport: Valid for the duration of work.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Proof of Work Experience: Letters from previous employers, CVs, or employment records.
- Proof of Financial Support: If not supported by the employer.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Spouse and Dependents:
- Spouse: Application for an open work permit or visitor visa.
- Dependents: Application for study or visitor visa.
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate or birth certificate.
- Proof of Financial Support: Additional financial documents to cover family members.
- Biometrics: Required.
- Permanent Residence (PR)
- Main Applicant:
- Proof of Identity: Passport and birth certificate.
- Medical Examination: Results from an approved panel physician.
- Police Certificates: From countries where lived for 6+ months since age 18.
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements or financial documents.
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): For foreign degrees.
- Language Test Results: IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF scores.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Spouse and Dependents:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate or birth certificate.
- Medical Examination: Required for all dependents.
- Police Certificates: For dependents over the age of 18.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Family Sponsorship
- Sponsor and Principal Applicant:
- Sponsorship Agreement: Signed by both sponsor and applicant.
- Marriage Certificate: If sponsoring a spouse.
- Proof of Relationship: Photos, communication records, joint financial documents.
- Passport: For the applicant.
- Medical Examination: For the applicant and dependents.
- Police Certificates: For the applicant and dependents.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Dependents:
- Birth Certificates: For children.
- Medical Examination: Required for all dependents.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Restoration of Status
- Main Applicant:
- Proof of Status: Previous visa or permit.
- Reason for Restoration: Explanation for overstay or status violation.
- Passport: Valid for the intended period of stay.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements or financial support letters.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Spouse and Dependents:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate or birth certificate.
- Proof of Financial Support: Additional financial documents.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Authorization to Return to Canada
- Main Applicant:
- Details of Removal Order: Documentation related to the removal.
- Supporting Documents: Proof of change in circumstances or reasons to return.
- Passport: Valid for the duration of stay.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
- Main Applicant:
- Reason for Inadmissibility: Explanation of the inadmissibility issue.
- Purpose of Visit: Detailed reason for needing to enter Canada.
- Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements or financial support letters.
- Biometrics: If required.
- Spouse and Dependents:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate or birth certificate.
- Proof of Financial Support: Additional financial documents to cover family members.
- Biometrics: If required.
Additional Notes:
- Translation of Documents: Any documents not in English or French must be accompanied by a certified translation.
- Certified Copies: Some documents may need to be notarized or certified.
These are general requirements and may vary based on individual circumstances and the specific visa category. Always refer to the official IRCC website or consult with an immigration expert for the most accurate and detailed information.
Common Documents for Spouses and Dependents:
- Passports: Valid for the duration of stay or permit.
- Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos per applicant.
- Proof of Relationship:
- Spouse: Marriage certificate.
- Dependent Children: Birth certificates or adoption documents.
- Proof of Financial Support:
- Bank statements, pay stubs, or a letter of financial support to cover living expenses for the entire family.
- Medical Examination: Required for all dependents if applying for visas or permits that require a stay longer than six months.
- Police Certificates: For dependents over the age of 18 from countries where they have lived for more than six months.
- Biometrics: If required, biometric information for each applicant.
- Educational Documents (for school-age children): Admission letters or proof of enrollment in a Canadian school.
- Travel Documents: Flight itinerary or travel plans, if applicable.
- Immigration Forms: Completed forms specific to the visa category being applied for (e.g., IMM 5409, IMM 0008, etc.).
These documents are typically required for various visa applications, including visitor visas, study permits, work permits, and family sponsorships. Always check the specific requirements for the visa category and consult with the official IRCC website or an immigration expert for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
SDS VISA PROCESSING & REQUIRMENTS FOR INDIAN STUDENTS
As per the Govt of Canada, there have been some changes in the requirements and visa processing under the SDS program.
So, the following are the SDS visa processing and Requirements for Indian Students:
- The minimum IELTS Score for an SDS Visa must be 6 bands in each module for UG & 6.5 bands for PG courses.
- Full tuition fees for the first year should be paid in advance.
- Colleges and Institutions must have a registered Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) number.A
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of $20635 will be mandatory to buy.
Education Training System in Canada is globally Recognized Canada has built up a top-notch education system with exclusive expectations. A Canadian degree, diploma, or certificate is perceived all inclusive as being identical to those from the United States and Commonwealth nations.
WORK OPPORTUNITIES IN CANADA FOR ALL VISA CATEGORIES :-
Work Rights During Studies in Canada for International Students
The following is a summary of recent updates to Canadian visa rules as per the latest official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines:-
International students in Canada are allowed to work while studying, but some specific regulations and conditions must be met. Below is an outline of the work rights for international students during their studies:
- On-Campus Work:
- Eligibility: International students with a valid study permit are allowed to work on campus without the need for a separate work permit, as long as they are enrolled full-time in a recognized program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- No Restrictions on Employer: There are no restrictions on who the student can work for on campus (e.g., university or private employers on campus).
- Work Hours: There are no limits to the number of hours a student can work on campus during regular study periods (fall and winter terms).
- Off-Campus Work:
- Eligibility: Students enrolled full-time in a program at a DLI are eligible to work off-campus, provided their study permit includes a condition allowing off-campus work.
- Work Hours:
- During the academic year (fall and winter terms), students can work up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session.
- During scheduled breaks (e.g., summer holidays or winter holidays), students can work full-time (more than 20 hours per week).
- Employer Requirements: There are no restrictions on the employer for off-campus work; however, the work must be related to the student’s field of study and contribute to their academic and professional development.
- Co-op and Internships:
- International students may be eligible to participate in a co-op or internship program, provided it is a mandatory part of their academic program.
- To work in a co-op or internship placement, students need to apply for a Co-op Work Permit in addition to their study permit.
- The Co-op Work Permit allows students to work full-time during the co-op placement, which is required as part of their program.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
- Students who have completed a program at a DLI may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after graduation, allowing them to work full-time in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their program.
- Work experience gained during studies is not counted towards the PGWP duration but can be used to support the student’s application for permanent residence through the Express Entry system.
- Restrictions and Conditions:
- International students must maintain full-time status in their academic program while working.
- They must adhere to the work hour limits set by the IRCC, especially during the academic year.
- Students must continue to fulfill the primary purpose of their stay in Canada, which is studying, and should not rely on work as their primary source of income.
Here’s the revised or latest information about post-graduation work permits for international students in Canada:
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for International Students
International students who have completed a program of study at a recognized Canadian post-secondary institution can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
- Eligibility for PGWP:
- The program of study must be at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that is eligible for PGWP issuance.
- The program must be at least 8 months long and lead to a diploma, degree, or certificate.
- The student must have studied full-time during the program and graduated.
- The application for a PGWP must be made within 180 days of receiving the final transcript or official completion letter from the institution.
- Duration of PGWP:
- The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of the study program completed by the student:
- If the program was less than 2 years, the work permit will generally be valid for the same duration as the program.
- If the program was 2 years or more, the PGWP can be issued for up to 3 years.
- The length of the PGWP depends on the duration of the study program completed by the student:
- Non-SDS (Student Direct Stream) Colleges:
- For students who graduate from non-SDS designated colleges in Canada, they are not eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
- The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a pathway for faster visa processing for students coming from select countries, and it applies to specific types of educational institutions. However, the eligibility for a PGWP is not restricted to SDS colleges; it is based on the DLI status of the institution.
- Work Rights After Graduation:
- Students who are granted a PGWP can work anywhere in Canada and are not limited to a specific employer.
- This work experience may also count towards eligibility for permanent residency under programs like Express Entry.
- Exceptions and Limitations:
- If a student completes their studies at a non-DLI institution or a program that does not meet the requirements, they will not be eligible for the PGWP.
- Students who have previously held a PGWP and want to apply again are generally not eligible for a second PGWP.
Find more up-to-date information about the Canadian student visa on the official student visa page of the Canadian government.
Processing Time for Study Permit differs from 15 days to 30 days for receipt of initial response.
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