Introduction
Canada is known for its world-class education system. Every year, thousands of students from all over the world apply to Canada for their higher education. Pakistani students are specifically attracted to these universities because they provide a world-class education system, excellent academic programs, cultural diversity, and many opportunities after graduation. To study in Canada, you need to obtain a Canada study visa, also known as a study permit. Obtaining a study visa can be difficult, but following the right steps and guidance can be successful. This comprehensive guide will provide the guidance you need to apply for a study visa.
Importance of a Canada Study Visa
For students wishing to pursue education in Canada study visa is crucial. This visa allows them to discover a world-class academic system and professional opportunities. With the Canada study visa, Pakistani students can benefit from:
- Canada has some leading universities and colleges so Pakistani students can get a chance to study in these institutions with a study permit.
- Canadian institutions provide a vast range of programs and courses, so students can choose programs they are interested in.
- Institutions in Canada have world-class and innovative research facilities so students can work on research projects.
- Canada has a supportive community that makes an international student feel at home.
- Students come to Canada from different backgrounds, so every student can experience cultural diversity, which makes students aware of different cultures.
- Students can improve their English language, which can benefit them in the global job market.
- Canada allows students to work for three years after graduation to get work experience in Canada.
- Students can apply for permanent residency after graduation through the Express Entry System (it’s an application process for skilled workers who want to live permanently in Canada).
- Students can benefit from Provisional Nominee Programs (Specific provinces provide opportunities for skilled workers to permanently live in Canada and work to contribute to the economy of a specific province or territory).
Eligibility and Requirements
Meeting the Eligibility Criteria
To obtain a Canadian Visa, Pakistani Students must meet some eligibility criteria. One primary criterion is getting an acceptance letter from the Designated Learning Institution (DLI). DLIs are schools approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.
To get a DLI, you must research Canadian institutions and the courses they offer that align with your interest and apply; once it is accepted, the institution will provide an acceptance letter.DLI is mandatory for the application of a study permit. In addition, for a study visa, you must not have any criminal record.
Proof of Financial Support
Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their education and living expenses in Canada. This includes providing a bank statement that shows enough resources to cover one year of tuition and living costs in Canada.
Required Documents
There are some required documents to apply for a study visa. It is mandatory to submit these documents by the applicant. These required documents are:
- Acceptance letter from Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Recent bank statement (It must show you have enough financial support)
- A Valid Passport
- A clear criminal record certificate
- English proficiency test result(It can be IELTS, TOEFL, etc)
- A medical exam
Application process
You can apply online on the IRCC website. To apply on paper, you must include a note on the application showing the visa application center that you are eligible. If you are not eligible, your application will be rejected, so it is better to apply online.
Online application steps
- Create an account on the IRCC website.
- Sign in to the IRCC account
- Fill out the application form and include your information
- Upload your required documents
- Pay the application fee, which is approximately 150 CAD as of 2024
- Check your application status once daily
Biometrics and Interview
Biometrics and Interviews are part of the application process. The applicants will receive a Biometric Instruction letter. After receiving it, they have to visit a Visa Application Centre to give their fingerprints and photographs. Before biometrics, they have to submit a fee, typically 85 CAD. The applicant must schedule an appointment for biometrics.
If the applicants receive a notification of an interview, they have to be prepared for the interview. For the interview, the applicant must bring all the required documents. Applicants must arrive on time and dress properly, Applicants must have to answer the asked questions clearly and honestly. The questions may include:
- Study Plan and reason for choosing Canada
- Will the applicant come back to his home country after completing his education?
- Chosen program and institution
- Question about the applicant’s financial situation and how they will fund his education and living expenses.
Visa Fees and Processing Time
Understanding Visa Costs
The applicant must pay some processing costs when applying for a study visa. Canada’s official visa fee is 185 CAD, the biometric fee is 85 CAD, and the visa fee is 100 CAD.
Note: These fees change over time. You can visit the Canada Immigration website for the latest information.
Expected Processing Times
Canadian Visa processing time depends on various factors. It depends upon the time of year, the completeness of the application, and how much time the visa office takes to handle the application. However, the typical processing time for a study permit application is about 1 to 2 months. Holidays in Canada, such as Christmas holidays, can slightly delay the processing time of the application. Applicants can track their visa application by visiting the Government of Canada website.
After Receiving Your Visa
Post-Visa Approval Steps
Once you receive your Canadian study visa, there are several important steps to take to prepare for your travel and arrival in Canada guide:
1. Check your Visa
Check all the details on your visa, including your name, date of birth, and visa validity. Make sure all the information is accurate. If there is any error, contact the visa office immediately. Read all the conditions written on the visa.
2. Preparation for travel
Purchase your flight ticket to Canada. Try to arrive a few weeks before starting your classes. So, you can adjust yourself in Canada by adapting to different things like the environment and weather of Canada. Secure your housing arrangements in Canada before leaving for Canada. It can be an on-campus apartment, off-campus rentals, etc. Remember to take the necessary documents for your journey. These are:
- Passport with the visa stamp
- Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction
- Letter of acceptance from your institution
- Proof of financial support
- Any documents related to your medical examination (if applicable)
- Copies of important documents (keep originals and copies in separate locations)
3. Plan about finances
Upon arrival, exchange some Canadian dollars through a money exchange company for immediate use. Also, research Canadian banks and open a bank account. Many banks in Canada offer special accounts for international students.
4. Health insurance
Make sure you have enough health insurance to cover your stay in Canada. Some provinces offer health insurance plans for international students, while others require you to purchase private insurance. If your province does not provide coverage, purchase private health insurance to cover medical expenses during your stay.
Conditions and Extensions
When you receive your study permit and arrive in Canada, it is important to follow the conditions set by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to maintain your legal status. Failure to do so may result in the loss of your study permit and affect your ability to stay or re-enter Canada. So, make sure you follow study permit conditions.
If your study permit expiry date is near and you need more study time, you can apply for an extension. You can apply for the extension on the IRCC website. The fee for an extension is about 150 CAD.
Conclusion
For Pakistani students wanting to study abroad in one of the best education systems worldwide is getting a Canadian study visa. The process may seem complex, but meeting the requirements, obtaining all necessary documents, and applying properly can produce positive results. Pakistani students in Canada will benefit from a wide range of learning opportunities and co-curricular activities when studying around like-minded peers. Following the correct practices with visa conditions and having regular foresight of extension opportunities can make a student’s pathway that opens up many roads for students in Canada, like work experience or permanent residency.
For more information, reach out to Shalee Global.
