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Canada Student Visa Guide

Study Permit (SDS stream)

Student Direct Stream — fast-track study permit for legal residents of select countries (incl. India, China, Pakistan, Philippines).

Application fee
~$110
Processing
20 calendar days when complete
Validity
Course length + 90 days
Work rights
24 hrs/week off-campus during studies (changing — check latest). PGWP up to 3 years post-graduation.

Document checklist

  • ✓Letter of Acceptance from DLI
  • ✓Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL)Most provinces require this since 2024.
  • ✓Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 20,635
  • ✓Tuition fee receipt — paid in full for first year
  • ✓IELTS ≥ 6.0 (each band) OR TOEFL iBT 83+
  • ✓Most recent secondary / post-secondary transcripts
  • ✓Medical exam from panel physician
  • ○Police clearance certificate (if requested) (optional)
  • ✓Statement of Purpose

Step-by-step process

  1. 1

    Get LOA + PAL

    Accept admission → request the PAL from your provincial regulator via the school.

  2. 2

    Pay first-year tuition

    Required for SDS — keep the receipt.

  3. 3

    Buy a GIC

    CAD 20,635 with Scotiabank, ICICI, or other approved banks.

  4. 4

    Take an upfront medical exam

    Use an IRCC-approved panel physician.

  5. 5

    Submit application online

    IRCC portal — pay biometric + processing fees.

  6. 6

    Biometrics + decision

    After biometrics, decision typically within 20 days.

Interview tips

  • SDS is mostly document-based — no in-person interview by default, but be ready for officer follow-ups.
  • SOP must clearly explain: choice of course, choice of Canada, ties to home country, funds.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • GIC purchased from a non-approved bank.
  • PAL not obtained / submitted with application.
  • Tuition only partially paid (must be full first year for SDS).

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Official source: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/student-direct-stream.html. General guidance only — verify current requirements before applying.