The landscape of Canadian study permit applications has evolved recently, impacting numerous candidates seeking expedited processing via the Student Direct Stream (SDS) in 2024. These adjustments, implemented by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aim to bolster the integrity of Canada’s international student program.
Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide outlining the application process for obtaining a study permit in Canada through the SDS program.
- Assess Your Eligibility for the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
Students from specific countries may qualify for expedited processing of their study permit application through Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS).
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Brazil
- China
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- India
- Morocco
- Pakistan
- Peru
- Philippines
- Senegal
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Vietnam
Applicants from the designated countries under the SDS may receive approval for their permit from IRCC within 20 calendar days. Conversely, individuals ineligible for the SDS can anticipate a processing time of 10 weeks for applications submitted from outside Canada, as defined by IRCC.
- Obtain a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution
A crucial stage involves applying to your desired Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and awaiting confirmation of acceptance in the form of a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). DLIs are the exclusive educational establishments in Canada authorized to enroll international students. IRCC offers a comprehensive list of DLIs on their official website for reference.
- Collect Required Documents for Your Study Permit Application
For your SDS application, you’ll need to furnish IRCC with supporting documents, including:
- A copy of your acceptance letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- If applicable, confirmation of your upfront medical exam.
- If applicable, a police certificate obtained before application.
- Proof of covering your travel costs.
- Proof of paying tuition fees for the first year of study.
- Evidence of language test results completed within two years of SDS application receipt.
- Proof of obtaining a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth $20,635 CAD.
- If applicable, a copy of a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).
- Your most recent secondary or post-secondary school transcript(s).
- If studying in Quebec, an attestation of issuance of your Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration.
- IRCC maintains a comprehensive list of documents on their official website. Refer to this list for the most up-to-date information.
- Getting a Provincial Attestation Letter
Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs) are a recent addition to IRCC’s requirements aimed at ensuring designated learning institutions (DLIs) don’t exceed their capacity to support international students. Introduced on January 22, 2024, provinces were given until March 31, 2024, to establish systems for issuing PALs.
Note that applicants to master’s programs, PhD programs, primary school, or secondary school are exempt from needing a PAL as part of their SDS application.
The process for obtaining a PAL may vary depending on your DLI’s location, with each Canadian province developing its own system. For details on the PAL process in each province, refer to the respective guidelines provided.
- Open a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) and Obtain Verification
As part of your SDS study permit application, you’re required to provide evidence of purchasing an International Student Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth $20,635. This investment remains in your account until your arrival in Canada, whereupon it’s disbursed through an initial lump sum payment followed by regular instalments over 10 to 12 months.
The TD International Student GIC Program simplifies meeting this requirement with a straightforward online application process. Through this, you can open both a TD Student Chequing Account and a TD International Student GIC without any application fees. Plus, you can start earning competitive interest rates even before arriving in Canada. Upon your arrival, visit one of TD’s 1,000+ branches to activate your account and access additional special offers and benefits.
- Finalize and Submit Your Study Permit Application
After receiving acceptance from a Canadian DLI and gathering all necessary documents, the next step is to submit your application to IRCC.
Upon approval, you’ll receive a letter of introduction (also referred to as a Port of Entry (POE) letter of introduction) along with a temporary resident visa or Electronic Travel Authorization if necessary for entry into Canada.
Presenting this letter to the Canadian immigration officer upon arrival confirms your study permit approval.
With your study permit in hand, embark on your journey as an international student in Canada, embracing the array of experiences the country has to offer.
- Why TD Stands Out: Reasons to Choose TD for Your International Student Journey
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