Canada Student Visa Guide for Indian Students (2025)

Canada is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations for Indian students. In addition to offering a wide range of programs in industries such as business, healthcare, and technology, Canada provides academic quality and diverse industry exposure. Reports show that the Canadian government issued around 5 lakh student permits in 2025, indicating a remarkable influx of international students in the country.

The visa is the most important part of your study-abroad application. If you get admitted to a top university, but do not receive a visa, it’ll go to waste. So what can you do to make sure all is well? Read this blog to begin with.

Key Highlights:

• The application fee for a Canadian student visa is CAD 150 (INR 9500) with an additional CAD 85 (INR 5000) for Biometrics. 
• The total cost of a Canadian Student Visa for an Indian student is CAD 235 in total (INR 14,500)
• The best time to apply is 3 months before the commencement of your course. 
• Applications take 4-8 weeks for processing, and can only be submitted once your Designated Learning Institute (DLI) has provided you with an Acceptance Letter.

Starting September 1, 2025, international students applying for a Canadian study permit will need to show proof of at least ₹14 lakhs (CAD 22,895) to cover their living expenses alone. This is a significant jump from the previous requirement of CAD 20,635, and the amount is in addition to tuition fees and travel costs.

This update was announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on June 2, 2025, and applies to students heading to all provinces and territories outside Quebec.

The revised financial threshold is part of a broader policy shift:

• IRCC plans to issue 437,000 study permits in 2025, a 10% reduction compared to 2024
• The fast-track SDS route for Indian students has been discontinued
• A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is now mandatory for most applicants
• Application platforms and institutional approval lists are undergoing changes
• Students must also stay updated on work-hour limitations and evolving documentation requirements
• With these changes, securing a Canadian student visa in 2025 demands greater financial preparation and closer attention to new procedures.

There are 2 types of student visas in Canada: the Canada Study Permit and the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). While the Study Permit allows you to stay in Canada for the duration of your academic program, the PGWP lets you remain and work in Canada after graduation, helping you gain valuable international work experience and even explore permanent residency options. 

Here are the types of student visas to study in Canada:

Canada Study Permit

This is the primary visa required to study at any Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. It allows you to work up to 20 hours a week during semesters and full-time during breaks.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Once you complete a qualifying program (of at least 8 months), you can apply for this open work permit. It's valid for up to 3 years, depending on your course length, and is a great stepping stone toward settling in Canada.

A Canadian study permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows international students to study in Canada for more than six months. It's a crucial document for studying at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The Canadian student visa system accommodates both the educational and professional aspirations of international applicants. The primary entry is through the Study permit, after which you can apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

A study permit is issued by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), that allows you to enter and study at a DLI (Designated Learning Institute ) in Canada. Valid for a period of the duration of your studies and an additional 90 days, this permit gives you legal residence for educational purposes. It is necessary to pair it with a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

The study permit can be followed by a  Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). It allows graduates to acquire meaningful Canadian work experience, later be used to support permanent residency applications via streams such as the Canadian Experience Class. 

The visa application fee for a Canadian student visa is CAD 150 (INR 9,500), and the biometric fee is CAD 85 (INR 5,500). You can pay them via debit or credit card, and they’re discussed below:

Visa Application Fee

The Canada visa application fees are CAD 150, or INR 9500. It covers the costs of processing your application, irrespective of whether the visa is granted or denied. 

This amount can be paid online by using a debit or credit card, or through VFS Global (debit/credit card, demand draft, or cash) if you’re applying in person. While this amount is payable in CAD, it can be paid in INR if done through VFS Global.

Biometric Fee

A biometric fee of CAD 85 (INR 5500 )is also to be paid while filling out your application. All rules regarding the mode of payment and type of currency remain the same as those of the Visa Application fee. 

Under the regular study permit stream, applications for a Canadian student visa usually take 4 to 8 weeks for processing. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is no longer available (after November 2024). 

It is strongly recommended that students apply 3 months before the course start dates with all mandatory documents in order to obtain their Visa on time. 

You can apply for a Canadian student visa only after receiving your acceptance letter. The ideal time to apply for your visa is around June, and you can aim for a September intake. You will require the following documents to apply:

• Valid Passport: Your passport should possess no ambiguity on the information page, and should be valid for at least 6 months after the end of your planned study period. 
• Proof of Acceptance: This is only considered valid if it is offered by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) or CAQ: This letter confirms that you have an allocated study permit from the province/territory (PAL/TAL) or Québec’s Ministère de l’Immigration (CAQ)
• Identity proof: This includes your passport and passport-size photos. It is necessary to take care that the photos are of 35 × 45 mm dimensions, with a plain background, and neutral expression. They should also have your name and DOB printed on the back. A digital copy of 4MB is also needed for online applications. 
• Proof of Financial Support: Students should have possession of at least one of the following documents.
  
  • Canadian bank statements or GIC confirmation
  • Education/student loan sanction letter
  • 4 months’ personal bank statements
  • Bank draft convertible to CAD
  • Tuition & housing fee receipts
  • Scholarship/funding letters
  • Letter from your sponsor
• Letter of Explanation / Statement of Purpose: A short letter that outlines your intent and acknowledges your responsibility as a student is also required. It should be around 300-500 words. 
• Medical Examination: A report from an IRCC-approved panel physician is needed if you’re planning to stay for more than 6 months in Canada. 
• Custodianship Declaration (minors only): If you are below 18 years of age, your guardian needs to fill out the IMM 5646 Form.
• Supporting documents: Paperwork like police certificates, proof of current immigration status, re-entry permit, etc., should also be submitted if asked to do so by your local visa office.

Let’s discuss the academic and financial documents that you need to apply for a Canadian student visa:

Academic Documents

You need transcripts, the English proficiency tests, and standardised scores as an act as proof of the qualifications and accomplishments in your academic journey before studying in Canada. Here’s an overview:

• Marksheets /Graduation or Degree certificates 
  • Class 10 (Secondary School from a recognised Board)
  • Class 12 (Higher Secondary or equivalent with a qualifying 75% + as required by most schools)
  • Bachelor's degree transcripts (if applying for a postgraduate course from a recognised institution with a 75% GPA for most colleges).
  • Diploma certificates (if applicable)
• Language Proficiency Test Results: An IELTS score with a 6+ band is generally needed, though the requirements of your institution and IRCC can vary.
• SOP and LoRs: Universities require you to submit a Statement of Purpose that outlines why you chose Canada, the university, the program, and what your plans are after graduation. 2-3 letters of Recommendation from teachers also help in boosting your chances of selection. 

Financial Documents

You need to maintain a minimum bank account balance to apply for your Canadian student visa. The amount varies depending on your location of study.

Here’s an overview of the financial documents and how much money you need:

The Study permit process is used to make sure that you meet all academic, legal, and financial prerequisites of studying in Canada. To prove your eligibility, you may need to demonstrate your intention of leaving Canada after your studies are complete.  After being approved, you will receive a Letter of Introduction, and your actual study permit is issued upon arrival in Canada. Then you can start your academic pursuits, but you need to abide by the regulations associated with your permit, like staying in full-time enrollment and making satisfactory academic progress, to avoid harsh penalties. 

To know the detailed steps for the application process, look below:

Stage 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before applying for a Canadian student visa, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements. You should have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), proof of financial support, and a clean criminal record. You may also need to undergo a medical exam and submit biometric data.

Stage 2: Prepare Required Documents

Gather essential documents, including:

• Valid passport
• Letter of acceptance 
• Proof of funds (tuition + living expenses)
• Passport-sized photos
• Immigration Medical Exam (IME) results
• Statement of purpose

Stage 3: Submit the Study Permit Application

Apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country. Be sure to:

• Fill out the application correctly
• Upload all required documents
• Pay the application and biometrics fees
• Schedule your biometrics appointment (if required)

Stage 4: Wait for Approval and Letter of Introduction

If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Letter of Introduction (LOI). This is not your actual study permit; it’s a pre-approval letter you'll need to present at the Canadian border. You’ll also receive a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if required, depending on your country of residence.

Stage 5: Arrive in Canada and Receive Your Study Permit

Bring your LOI, passport, and all supporting documents when you travel to Canada. A border services officer will review your documents at the port of entry and issue your official Study Permit.

Stage 6: Maintain Your Permit Status

After arrival, you must:

• Stay enrolled in a full-time program at a DLI
• Make satisfactory academic progress
• Follow any special conditions listed on your permit (e.g., work restrictions)
• Renew or extend your permit before it expires if needed

You should begin the application procedure for your Canadian student visa as soon as you get your letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. As the process takes time in India, it is best to start at least 3 to 6 months before your program begins.

You need to give sufficient time to gather and prepare documents, to go through biometrics and medicals, and to deal with delays, refusals, or reapplications if required. Applying early is the best decision you could make. It is also necessary to note that you also need to physically possess your visa to get your study permit and to arrange your travel. 

The process to apply for a Canadian study permit as an Indian student is pretty straightforward, but it needs careful attention to detail. From choosing the right university to gathering documents and applying online, each step is crucial to avoid delays or rejections. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Obtain an acceptance letter from your DLI. 

After you have applied to a recognised institution and received confirmation of your admission, your school will issue you an Acceptance letter. (Usually after paying the Offer Acceptance fees) You will need to submit the following documents to your university for the same. 

• Birth certificate
• Passport-size photos
• Passport
• Secondary school certificates or a previous degree certificate
• Work experience letter if needed
• IELTS certificate

Step 2: Fill out your study permit application.

The best way to do this is to apply online via the RICC website. Not only is this highly efficient, but it also makes uploading documents easy. Tracking the status of your application is also facilitated through this mode.

Step 3: Acquire a Personal Checklist Code

A personal checklist code is valid for 60 days. It contains information on the application, estimated fees, and what paperwork you’ll need to submit. The checklist greatly clarifies the steps if you are eligible for the code. 

Step 4: Prime your Paperwork

Being ready with all the right documents is essential for you to complete all processes on time. For this, you’ll need:

• A temporary residence permit
• Biometrics
• A medical exam
• Police certificate
• IELTS/English testing certificate
• Your CAQ if studying in Quebec
• Proof of acceptance from your institution
• ID proof
• Proof of ability to support yourself financially while in Canada
• A letter of explanation of intent 
• If you are a minor, you need a custodian declaration

Step 5: English Language Requirements

To be eligible for studies in Canada, you need to prove your proficiency in either English or French. For English, the IELTS examination score is widely accepted by most Canadian universities and by government offices. The scores generally accepted are in the range of 6-6.5 for Bachelors, Graduate, and Master’s programs, while you need a 5+ score for Diplomas.

Step 6: Create your MyCIC account, pay fees for a Visa

Enter your checklist code into your account on the MyCIC website. Attach all the documents they request and fill out the application form. Follow this up by paying the CAD 150 fees for your Visa.   

Step 7: Attend an interview

You might need to attend an interview at your local visa office. Biometric fees of 

CAD 85 for one person, or CAD 170 for a family of two or more people may also need ot be paid.

Step 8: Apply to the CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) 

After completing all the steps and the approval of your student permit application, you’ll get a POE (Port of Entry) Letter of Introduction and a temporary visa. You need to submit all the important paperwork to the CBSA, which will then provide you with your Canadian study permit.

You must apply for a Canada study permit through the official IRCC website: www.canada.ca. This is the most common and recommended method for international students. If online application is not possible, you may apply in person through your local Visa Application Centre (VAC) or Canadian embassy/consulate.

After submitting your application online, you will be required to visit a VAC to give biometrics and submit your passport for visa stamping. Online applications are faster and easier to track, which is why most students prefer this route.

To apply for a Canadian student visa, you must first create an online account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. This digital process allows you to submit your documents, pay fees, and track your application securely from anywhere in the world. Here's a complete breakdown of each step involved:

Here's how to apply online through IRCC: 

Step 1: Secure an Acceptance Letter from a DLI

Before beginning your visa application, you must be accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This could be a university, college, or vocational school that is recognized by the Canadian government. Your letter of acceptance is a critical document, you won’t be able to apply for a study permit without it. Make sure your letter includes your program details, start date, and institution code.

Step 2: Create an IRCC Online Account

Visit the official IRCC website and choose either a GCKey or Sign-In Partner to register your account. This portal will is the main hub for completing forms, uploading documents, and checking application status. Once your account is set up, you can begin your application under the “Apply for a Study Permit” section.

Step 3: Complete the Study Permit Application Form (IMM 1294)

The primary form for the study permit is IMM 1294. You'll need to enter personal details, academic background, travel history, and your purpose of studying in Canada. Be as accurate and truthful as possible. Inconsistencies or missing information could delay processing or lead to rejection.

Step 4: Upload All Required Supporting Documents

Prepare digital copies of your documents in advance. Most students need to upload the following:

• Valid passport (with at least one blank page for the visa)
• Letter of acceptance from a DLI
• Proof of funds (bank statements, GIC certificate, loan letters, etc.) showing at least CAD 20,000 for Indian applicants to cover tuition and living expenses
• Passport-sized photographs (as per IRCC specifications)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your study plans, goals, and intention to return home after completion
• Language proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or other recognized tests)
• Medical exam results, if you’re from a country requiring a medical examination (India is included for long-term stays)
• Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL) once issued

Step 5: Pay the Required Fees Online

You’ll need to pay two main fees through your IRCC account using a credit or debit card:

• • Study permit application fee: CAD 150 (INR 9,500)
  • Biometrics fee: CAD 85 (INR 5,500)

Step 6: Schedule and Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

Using the BIL, book a biometrics appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC). In India, VACs are located in cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and others. During your appointment, your fingerprints and a photograph will be taken for Canadian immigration records.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision and Receive a Letter of Introduction

After submitting your biometrics and documents, the IRCC will begin reviewing your application. Processing times vary, but it typically takes 4 to 8 weeks for Indian students. If approved, you’ll receive a Letter of Introduction (LOI) in your IRCC account, confirming your study permit approval.

Step 8: Receive Your Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

As an Indian citizen, you also need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada. If your study permit is approved, the TRV is issued automatically—there’s no need to apply separately. Your passport will be stamped with this visa, allowing you to travel to Canada.

Step 9: Travel to Canada and Present Your Documents at the Border

Before anything else, you must receive an official admission letter from a recognized Canadian university or college. Visit the IRCC website and register for an account to start your application online. Complete the online form (IMM 1294) with accurate academic, personal, and travel details. Then, pay the study permit fee (CAD 150, INR 9500) and biometric fee (CAD 85, INR 5500) online through your IRCC account. Schedule and attend your biometric appointment at a nearby Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India, and if approved, you’ll receive a Letter of Introduction and your TRV will be stamped in your passport.

Remember to carry your Letter of Introduction and all relevant documents. Your study permit will be issued at the port of entry upon arrival in Canada.

An interview is not necessary for most applicants for student visas to Canada. The majority of study permit applications are handled online, without in-person or online interviews. However, in some cases, if the Canadian visa officer needs more information to make a decision, they may set up an interview.

If you receive an interview invitation, it usually takes place at the Canadian consulate or embassy or at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your neighbourhood. The officer may ask you questions during the interview. Give a clear, assured, and honest response. Having documents ready helps support your responses.

You should be ready to explain why you chose Canada and your particular college or university, how you plan to pay for your education and living expenses, and what you plan to do once you graduate.

India has 4 Canadian embassies and consulate offices for your student visa. Choose the one that will be convenient for you, but sometimes you may not get a slot. In that case, take whichever is available. Here are the top 4 Canadian embassies and consulate offices in India:

You’ll find a network of VFS application centres spread across multiple regions to make your visa process smoother. In total, there are over 100 centres providing services like document submission, biometric enrolment, and application tracking. Each centre follows standardised hours and service protocols, so whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a follow-up, you’ll know what to expect. 

The following table gives the addresses and locations of some of the VFS centres.

Before we get to the nitty-gritty tips, here's a brief refresher on why respecting these dos and don'ts makes or breaks your Canada study permit application. The "Do's" are like the fundamental best practices that ensure your documents are clean, complete, and compliant with IRCC requirements. The "Don'ts," on the other hand, identify common mistakes and pitfalls that may hold up your application, or even cause refusal. Together, this checklist will enable you to submit an unshakeable file and save yourself from unnecessary headaches.

Do's

The following section highlights the things you should do:

• Digitise Your Documents: Every page of all necessary documents should be saved in JPG and PDF formats with uploadable file sizes (4 MB).
• Follow IRCC Guidelines: Download the “Visa Office Instructions” PDF specific to India from the IRCC website, and read it thoroughly so you can break down the process. 
• Keep your Originals Handy: Original documents and their photocopies may be required at the  Visa Application Centre or when you arrive at Canada’s port of entry.
• Double-Check Everything: Since accidental overlooks in spellings, dates, etc, can cause unnecessary hassle, you must cross-check every field before finally submitting your application.

Don'ts 

The following section highlights the things you should not do:

• Don’t Follow Rumours: It is always best to use the information on official government websites rather than relying on the advice circulating on social media. These can cause you to follow the wrong deadlines, which can be catastrophic.
• Don’t Book Non-Refundable Reservations: Since visa confirmation is a tricky process, it is best to wait for confirmation before buying flights or paying for accommodations, so that you don’t lose money.
• Don’t Conceal Past Issues: Never hide information about any former visa refusals, criminal convictions, or immigration violations. If these are discovered later, you could be banned from entering the country. 
• Don’t rush the process: Make sure you are applying for the right kind of visa and have read the guidelines very thoroughly. Incomplete documents and wrong details can lead to dismissals. 

Your application for a student visa goes through the standard processing stages. If your application is successful, you will receive your study permit either on your arrival in Canada at your port of entry or by email. 

The following section will walk you through what happens next. 

Letter of Introduction

You will receive a Letter of Introduction once your application is approved. Also called the Port of Entry letter, it authorises the border services officer to issue your visa when you arrive in Canada. 

eTA or Visitor Visa

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) will be issued to you. This is essential for boarding your flight to Canada and entering the country.

Document Verification at the Border

Once you land, you need to present a valid passport, a Letter of Introduction, and other documents submitted with your study permit application, like proof of funds, admission letter, and medical exam results, to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer.   

If your initial application is denied, be proactive in addressing the flagged issues early and develop a backup plan for the instance of application denial.

Acquiring a Canadian study permit can be challenging as there is a high demand, and regrettably, refusals are quite regular. The good news is that a well-prepared application can spare you a great deal of hassle, time, and money.

These are some of the key causes why applications are rejected, and what you can do to prevent them from happening:

Inadequate financial documentation

Satisfying the bare minimum funds may not be enough. It's more preferable to demonstrate that you can take care of yourself for more than a year, adding credibility to your application.

Problems with your acceptance letter

Your enrollment and program information should be specified on your acceptance letter. This document is only considered legitimate if it is from a designated Learning Institution or DLI.

Missing documentation

Your application has a high probability of being rejected if you don’t attach vital documents such as your language test results or travel history.

Unclear Post-Study Plans

You need to make your intention of returning home after your studies clear to the immigration officers, as a study permit acts as a short-term visa. This is done by providing evidence. In case your application gets rejected, you’ll receive a refusal letter stating the reasons. You can apply again after making the corrections. 

In this in-depth guide, we've charted out each aspect of obtaining your Canadian student visa, from application and biometric fees to the details of each submission step and mistakes you'll want to avoid. Now you know the cost breakdown, document needs, and common mistakes that can delay your approval. With this guide, you have a concise, actionable roadmap to navigate the visa process with confidence.

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