The Canada Student Visa processing time for Indian students is a concern for most. There are many variables that determine the timelines of visa processing time.
Some of the factors that influence the visa processing time are:
- The volume of applications that require processing by IRCC.
- The strength of your application based on legitimate documents that are submitted
- The clarity of the statement of purpose.
- Case-specific delays like previous travel history to sensitive places, documents that more verification etc.
- Completeness and accuracy of information provided.
- How quick you are to respond to any requests or queries sent by the authority.
- Applicants with previous criminal records can expect a delay in the processing time
Visa Processing Time for Canada Study Visa
Before applying for a Canada Study Permit, you must have a fair idea of how long it can take to get the final approval. This actually makes your visa application process way smoother and hassle-free.
"It usually takes 3-4 weeks to process your application for a Canadian Student Visa. But this is just an approximate time."
Can I get my Canada study visa faster?
Applying under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) will get you a study visa within 20 days. India is among the 14 countries whose nationals are eligible for the SDS pathway.
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Canada’s Student Direct Stream | 14 Eligible Countries |
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India |
Pakistan |
Philippines |
Vietnam |
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China |
Brazil |
Morocco |
Senegal |
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Costa Rica |
Antigua and Barbuda |
Peru |
Colombia |
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Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
Trinidad and Tobago |
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What is a Student Visa?
A student visa is meant for international students. This is a non-immigrant type visa that allows applicants to complete their higher education in a foreign country.
In Canada, a study visa is often described as a study permit. Overseas students can only study at designated learning institutions (DLI) in Canada.
Many factors can influence Canada’s Student Visa processing time from India significantly.
Can I check the processing time for my Canadian study permit?
Yes, you can. The Canadian Immigration Department allows study visa applicants to check the approximate Canada visa processing time. You can also check your Canada visa application status online on the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
If you applied using the VFS services, you can also track the progress through their website.
When is the best time to apply for a Canada student visa?
The best time to apply for your SDS Canada Visa is 3 months before the Fall Intake.
What are the intakes offered by Canadian universities?
There are 3 admission intakes offered by universities in Canada. An intake refers to a short duration in which applications are accepted and processed.
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Study in Canada | Intakes in an Academic Year |
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Intake |
Month |
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Fall |
September |
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Winter |
January |
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Summer/Spring |
May |
Fall is the Primary Intake as a wide majority of applications are processed at that time.
Why is it important to choose the right intake to study in Canada?
An understanding of the Canadian university intakes is important for you. Each of the intakes corresponds to a separate academic session. You must choose the best intake for you based on your circumstances and requirements. The intake must be planned for you to arrange everything per the timeline.
When choosing the intake, keep in mind the time you will need to -
- Appear for standardized tests (IELTS, GMAT, GRE etc.)
- Secure admission
- Apply for a Study Permit
Am I eligible for Canadian SDS for study visa?
There are specific requirements for being granted a study permit under the SDS route. To be eligible, you must be -
- A legal resident living in any of the eligible countries
- With a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a post-secondary DLI in Canada
- Living outside Canada when applying
- With proof of having paid the tuition fee for the first year of study
- With the required amount in a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- A Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ), only if planning to study in Quebec
- Possessing your most recent educational transcripts
- With the minimum overall band score requirement of 0 in IELTS Academic (other language tests also available)
Those living anywhere other than the SDS eligible countries - even if they are a citizen of an eligible country - will have to apply through the regular pathway.
What factors affect Canada’s student visa processing from India?
The processing time for your Canadian student visa will depend on factors like -
- Your possessing enough funds to cover your stay as a student
- Your ties to your home country
- Whether your application is complete and had all documents
- How long it takes for you to respond to requests for further information
- Other factors like the present application volume with the IRCC
Reach out to a reliable and trusted visa consultancy to apply for your student permit. Get a Canada study permit with a faster or reduced processing time. An experienced visa consultant can help you submit a complete application that has all required information and needed documents.
Apart from this, we also help with the preparation of your Statement of Purpose for university admissions and visa process. Get reliable guidance on selecting the right university and course. Explore your work options post study. Know about working during your study and post-work opportunities and PR options after. Studying in Canada can lead to Canada immigration.
We can also help you to settle in Canada after you have received your visa. Claim our customized post-settlement services.
Other Important FAQs
What is the minimum age limit to apply for a Canadian student permit?
The applicant must be 18 years or more while applying for a Canadian student permit. A parent or legal guardian must accompany an applicant who is below the age of 18 years.
How many times can I apply for a Canadian Study Visa?
There is no maximum limit to apply for a Canadian study visa. If you face a rejection, you must understand the reasons which will be given in the refusal letter. It is recommended not to repeat the same mistake. You must focus on justifying the reasons for your previous refusal. Modify your application accordingly and re-submit.
When can you apply for a Canada student permit after facing a rejection?
There is no waiting period to re-apply for a Canada student permit. You can apply just after the rejection of your study visa application.
Note: Don’t submit the previous application, which was rejected. Always submit a fresh application to avoid further rejection.
What are the common reasons for student visa rejection?
The most common reasons for Canada student visa rejections are -
- Financial background: The immigration department may find that you are not financially stable to support yourself while studying in Canada. You need to prove that you can arrange sufficient funds until you stay in Canada.
- Academic performance: You must have the required academic credits or scores needed by the Canadian government.
- Letter of acceptance: To apply for a study permit, you must produce a letter of acceptance from a registered Canadian educational institution. You cannot apply for a study visa without a LOA from a designated DLI.
- IELTS or TOEFL Score: You need to secure the minimum IELTS or TOEFL score required as proof of your possessing English language proficiency.
How long does it take to get a Canada student visa in India?
It takes around 7-10 weeks to get a Canadian Student Visa in India. However, with the Student Direct Stream, you can get your visa even within 20 days. The processing time usually depends on the number of applications the IRCC has with them at that point in time.
How do I know if my Canada student visa is approved?
There are 3 ways to find out:
- Check Online: Log in to your IRCC Account and check if you have received an email ‘Confirmation of Student Visa’.
- Check your Passport: If you have sent your application via post, wait until you receive your passport. On the inside, you will find an ‘Approved’ Stamp.
- Ask your consultant: Since consultants are a bridge between the Embassy and clients, they have all the first-hand knowledge about the status of your application. They’ll be able to give you a better understanding.
How can I track my Student visa file after IRCC submission?
You can check the status of your application with the online IRCC Application Status Tracker tool. As per the standard study permit processing time, you can expect a decision within 10 weeks of submitting your application to IRCC.
Can I apply under the Express Entry system?
You can apply under Express Entry’s Canadian Experience Class (CEC) once you have the required 1 year skilled work experience. After completing their studies, foreign students can remain in Canada on the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP is an open work permit that lets overseas students stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years.
