Updated Canada Study Visa Guide for Pakistani Students Following SDS Removal
The recent change in Canadian immigration policy has made the Student Direct Stream (SDS) unavailable for Pakistani students. This means that students aspiring to study in Canada must now apply for their study permits through the regular visa process, which comes with different requirements, processing times, and documentation compared to SDS. Below is a comprehensive guide reflecting these changes:
1. No Mandatory GIC Deposit:
Key Implications of SDS Removal for Pakistani Students
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Previously, students applying through SDS had to deposit CAD 10,000 in a Canadian bank as a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). This requirement is no longer applicable.
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Applicants must now demonstrate proof of sufficient funds through other financial means.
2. Regular Visa Processing Timelines:
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The SDS program offered expedited processing, with study permits typically processed within 20 days. With SDS no longer available, processing times may vary and could be slower based on IRCC processing backlogs.
3. More Detailed Documentation:
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Under the regular stream, applicants need to provide more comprehensive financial evidence, such as bank statements, property valuations, and detailed sponsor information.
Pathvisas Consultancy Services for Canada Study Visas
Path Visas offers end-to-end support for Pakistani students applying for study permits to Canada. Our services include:
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Eligibility Assessment: Determine your eligibility for study permits.
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Application Guidance: Assistance with university and visa applications.
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Document Preparation: Help compile financial, academic, and supporting documents.
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Medical and Biometrics Coordination: Guidance through medical exams and biometrics.
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Post-Arrival Services: Assistance with accommodation, bank accounts, and more in Canada.
Step-by-Step Guide for the Regular Canada Study Permit Application Process for Pakistani Students
Step 1: Research and Apply to a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
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Choose a Program and University: Ensure you are applying to a Canadian institution recognized as a DLI.
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Receive an Acceptance Letter: You must receive a letter of acceptance (LOA) from the DLI, which is mandatory for the visa application.
Step 2: Document Preparation for Study Permit Application
1. Financial Proof:
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Bank Statements: Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for at least one year. The exact amount can vary based on your location in Canada.
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Property Valuations and Asset Evidence: You may need to present evidence of additional financial resources such as property documents, asset valuations, or sponsor affidavits.
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Tuition Fee Receipts: Payment of tuition fees for the first semester or year may be required by some institutions.
2. Academic and Admission Documents:
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Acceptance Letter from a DLI.
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Academic Transcripts from previous educational institutions.
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Language Proficiency Test Results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL):
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IELTS: Minimum 6.0 for undergraduate and 6.5 for postgraduate programs (specific requirements may vary by institution).
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Educational Credential Assessments: Conducted by organizations such as WES (World Education Services) or IQAS (International Qualifications Assessment Service) to validate academic credentials.
3. Other Required Documents:
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Statement of Purpose (SOP): Clearly outline why you have chosen Canada, your selected program, career goals, and your intent to return to Pakistan upon completion of your studies.
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Work Experience Letters (if applicable): Provide letters from employers if you have work experience relevant to your chosen program.
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Health and Medical Examination: Complete a medical exam with a panel physician approved by IRCC.
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Biometrics: Complete biometrics (fingerprinting and a photo) at an approved Visa Application Center (VAC).
4. Visa Application Submission:
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Submit your application online through the IRCC website or at a VFS Global center in Pakistan.
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Application Fees:
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Visa Application Fee: CAD 150.
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Biometrics Fee: Approximately CAD 85.
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Attend your biometrics appointment and, if required, an interview.
Financial Proof Requirements
To be eligible for a study permit, you must prove that you can financially support yourself during your stay in Canada. The minimum requirements include:
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Tuition Fees: Ensure you can cover your tuition fees, which vary based on the institution and program.
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Living Expenses: The cost of living for a student in Canada is generally estimated at a minimum of CAD 10,000 per year, in addition to tuition fees. Additional funds are required for any accompanying family members.
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Acceptable Proof of Funds:
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Bank Statements for the last six months.
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Property Valuation Documents or evidence of assets (if applicable).
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Affidavit of Financial Support from a sponsor, if someone is financially supporting you.
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Health Insurance and Medical Examinations
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Health Insurance: Depending on the province, you may be required to obtain private health insurance. Costs typically range from CAD 600 to CAD 900 annually.
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Medical Examination: Complete a medical examination through an IRCC-approved panel physician. This must be done before your study permit is approved.
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