All You Need to Know About the Different Types of Canadian Student Visas

A Canadian student visa is a crucial first step in turning your dream of studying in the land of maple leaves into reality. Preparing a complete application—from the letter of acceptance to financial proof—is key to increasing your chances of success. While the visa application process may vary depending on the type of visa you choose, having the right information and following the proper steps will help you complete the process effectively.

Join Phan Immigration as we explore the different types of student visas and how to prepare your application for studying in Canada!

Types of Canadian Student Visas

If you’re planning to study in Canada, choosing the right type of visa is a crucial first step. Below is an overview of the three most common student visa options you should consider:

Study Permit

The Study Permit is an essential document for international students who intend to study in Canada for more than six months. It is not an entry visa, but a permit that allows you to legally stay in Canada during your study period.

• Requirement: A letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada is required.
• Validity: The permit is valid for the duration of your study program, plus an additional 90 days to either prepare to leave Canada or apply for an extension if needed.
• Key Benefits:
  • You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions.
  • You can work full-time during official breaks and holidays.

Student Direct Stream (SDS): Fast-Track Visa Processing Program

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is a priority visa program for international students from certain countries—including Vietnam—designed to accelerate the processing of study permit applications for eligible candidates.

Eligibility Requirements for SDS:

• Letter of Acceptance: Must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
• Language Proficiency: Minimum IELTS score of 6.0 in all four skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
  Financial Proof: Provide a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of 10,000 CAD.
• Tuition Payment: Full payment of first-year tuition in advance.
• Academic Records: Submit transcripts from high school, college, or university.

Special Requirements:

• CAQ Certificate if studying in Quebec.
• Medical exam prior to application submission.
• Clean background: No criminal record, no security risks.
• Compliance: Must not have violated immigration laws in any country.

Processing Time: Applications under SDS are typically processed faster than standard Study Permit applications, usually within 20–45 days.

Note: The SDS program has been temporarily suspended since 2024. Therefore, you should explore other visa options that best suit your study plans.

Visitor Visa: Tourist Visa for Short-Term Study

Visitor Visa for Vietnamese Citizens

The Visitor Visa (V1) is issued to foreign nationals who wish to enter Canada for purposes such as tourism, business, visiting relatives, or attending short-term study programs lasting less than 6 months. This is a flexible option for those planning a short stay in Canada without the need for a Study Permit.

Common Short-Term Study Programs Include:

• Language Courses: English or French training (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, or communication skills enhancement)
• Short-Term Vocational Training: Skills in management, marketing, IT, graphic design
• Professional Training: Healthcare, hospitality, culinary arts, beauty services
• Creative & Arts Classes: Drawing, photography, fashion design, handicrafts
• Personal Development Courses: Leadership, public speaking, time management

Requirements to Qualify for a Visitor Visa:

• Strong travel history: Prior trips showing compliance with visa regulations
• Ties to Vietnam: Such as family, property, employment, or other obligations
• Financial capability: Proof that you can support yourself during your stay and return home
• Clear purpose of visit: Aligned with the visa type and well-documented
• Intention to leave Canada: Evidence that you will exit the country after your planned activities

Using a Visitor Visa for Short-Term Study

• Eligibility: For students enrolling in study programs under 6 months (e.g., language courses or short certificate programs)
• Stay duration: Up to 6 months
• Important note: If you wish to extend your study period, you must apply for a Study Permit

Visitor Visa for Students Currently in Canada

Students already studying in Canada or holding a valid Study Permit may apply for a new Visitor Visa from within Canada to leave and return during their stay.

Eligibility:

• Must be residing in Canada with a valid study or work permit
• Current visa has expired or is a single-entry visa only

Application Method:

• Apply via the IRCC online portal
• Fill out the form “Application for Visitor Visa (IMM 5257)” even if applying from within Canada

Important Notes:

• Apply at least 2 months in advance of planned departure
• If you leave Canada before the new visa is issued, processing times may be longer and additional documentation may be required

Canada Student Visa Application Documents

To complete your student visa application for Canada, you need to prepare the following documents:

To obtain a Letter of Acceptance from a Canadian institution, you must apply to schools or colleges listed as Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) by the Canadian government. Choosing the right school and program not only increases your chances of obtaining a Study Permit but also builds a strong foundation for your future career after graduation.

Required documents to apply for an LOA:

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 more months.
• Academic transcripts or report cards: From the last 2–3 years for high school applicants, or post-secondary transcripts.
• Graduation certificate: From your most recently completed level of education.
• English language certificate: IELTS, TOEFL, etc. (if available).
• Application form: Fully completed according to the school’s requirements.

Recommended submission time:
Submit your application 4–6 months before the start of the term, or as early as possible to secure a spot.
Some schools may require advance tuition payment, insurance, or a housing deposit to confirm enrollment.

Documents for Canada Student Visa Application

Completed application forms:

• IMM 1294: Application for Study Permit Made Outside Canada
• IMM 5707: Family Information
• IMM 5483: Document Checklist
  (Additional forms may be required depending on your individual case)

Personal documents:

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 more months.
• Letter of Acceptance (LOA): From a DLI in Canada.
• Proof of tuition payment: Confirmation from the school.
• Passport-size photo: 3.5 x 4.5 cm, white background.
• Household registration book: Certified copy.
• Birth certificate
• National ID or Citizen ID

Academic documents:

• Most recent transcripts or report cards
• Highest degree or diploma (if applicable)
• Study Plan: A personal statement explaining your academic goals and reasons for choosing Canada.

Proof of financial capacity:

• Bank savings passbook: Showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses in Canada.
• Income proof from financial sponsor:
  • Labor contract, employment confirmation, or business license
  • Rental agreements, investment documents (if any)
• Fixed assets: Ownership certificates of land, house, car, or other valuable assets.

Documents for Applying for a Study Permit

After receiving your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and student visa for Canada, you must prepare an additional set of documents to apply for a Study Permit upon arrival at a Canadian airport. This is the final step to legally begin your studies in Canada.

Required documents for Study Permit issuance at the port of entry:

• Valid passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.
• Letter of Acceptance (LOA): Issued by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
• Tuition fee receipt: Proof of payment according to the school’s requirements.
• Letter of Introduction from the Canadian embassy: This letter confirms that your student visa has been approved.
• Translated documents: Any necessary documents translated into English or French, depending on your case.
• Financial proof: Additional documentation showing you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses while studying in Canada.

Financial Requirements for a Canada Student Visa

Proof of financial support is a critical part of the student visa application for Canada. This step is required to ensure that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses throughout your studies in Canada.

Proof of Financial Capability

To be granted a Canadian student visa, you must demonstrate that you or your family have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your studies. Below are the key requirements and documents to prepare:

Minimum Required Funds:

• Tuition Fees: Ranges from 15,000 to 40,000 CAD for the first year, depending on the institution and program.
• Living Expenses: At least 10,000 CAD per year for international students, not including additional costs for accompanying family members (if any).

Documents for Financial Proof:

• Savings Account Passbook:
  • The account balance should be enough to cover first-year tuition and living costs.
  • The account should ideally be active for at least 6 months before submission.
  • A typical recommended balance is between 800 million to 1 billion VND.
• Salary Slips: Submit monthly salary slips from the financial sponsor (parents or guardians) for the past 6 months to show stable income.
• Income Verification Documents:
  • Employment contract or business license
  • Proof of additional income sources such as real estate rental contracts or investment returns
• Asset Ownership Certificates:
  • Legal documents proving ownership of land, houses, or vehicles
  • Documentation of financial assets such as stocks or bonds
  • Records of income from business activities or valid financial transactions

Chứng chỉ đầu tư Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC

GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) là một loại chứng chỉ đầu tư mà du học sinh cần mua để chứng minh khả năng tài chính khi tham gia chương trình xét duyệt nhanh SDS.

Số tiền yêu cầu:

• Du học sinh cần đầu tư tối thiểu 10,000 CAD vào tài khoản GIC.
• Đây là khoản tiền được sử dụng để đảm bảo rằng bạn có đủ chi phí sinh hoạt cho năm đầu tiên tại Canada.

Lợi ích của GIC:

• Giúp đơn giản hóa và đẩy nhanh quy trình xét duyệt visa trong chương trình SDS.
• Cung cấp bằng chứng rõ ràng về khả năng tài chính, tăng cơ hội được cấp visa.

Canada Student Visa Application Process

To apply for a Canadian student visa, you must follow the steps below:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents Promptly and Completely

Before submitting your visa application, ensure all required documents are prepared to avoid delays in processing. Key documents include:

• Letter of Acceptance (LOA): Issued by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
• Passport: Must be valid for at least the entire duration of your planned study period.
• Passport Photos: Must meet Canada’s official size and format requirements.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): Explains why you chose to study in Canada and your plans after graduation.
• Financial documents: Includes savings books, income statements, salary slips, and a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) if applying under the SDS program.

Step 2: Complete the Visa Application Forms

Fill out all required forms accurately, including the Study Permit application (IMM 1294) and other relevant documents such as:

• IMM 5707 (Family Information)
• IMM 5483 (Document Checklist)

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online

Once all documents are ready, submit your application online through the IRCC official website. The steps include:

• Create a personal account on the IRCC portal
  Enter all required personal and academic information
• Upload supporting documents (LOA, passport, financial proof, etc.)
• Pay the visa application fee (typically 150 CAD)
• Submit your application and monitor updates from IRCC

Step 4: Complete the Required Medical Examination

Most international students are required to undergo a medical exam at a panel physician approved by IRCC. The exam ensures you are in good health and fit to study and live in Canada.

Step 5: Attend a Visa Interview (if requested)

Not all applicants are required to attend an interview. However, in some cases, you may be invited to an interview.

Typical interview questions may cover your study plans, career goals, and reasons for choosing Canada.

If an interview is required, IRCC will notify you via email or through your online IRCC portal.

Canada Student Visa Processing Time

Average Processing Time by Visa Type

The processing time for a Canadian student visa depends on the type of visa and the time of application:

• Study Permit: Processing usually takes 4 to 12 weeks, depending on your country of residence and the submission period.
• Visitor Visa: Processing typically takes 2 to 8 weeks.

Factors That May Affect Processing Time

• Completeness of the application: If the application is incomplete or the documents provided are unclear, the review process may be delayed.
• Application volume at the time of submission: During peak seasons—typically from May to September—a higher volume of applications may lead to longer processing times.
• Requests for additional documents: If IRCC requests more information or supporting documents, processing will be delayed until the required materials are submitted..

Phan Immigration – Professional Legal Support for Canada Student Visa Applications

Phan Immigration is a trusted immigration consulting firm, fully licensed by the Government of Canada and the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). With over 15 years of experience in immigration, we have supported thousands of clients on their journey to study and settle in Canada. Our mission is to deliver effective legal solutions that save you time and bring peace of mind.

Why Choose Phan Immigration?

• Expertise & Experience: Recognized by CICC, our team has in-depth legal knowledge and extensive experience. We ensure your documents are handled accurately from start to finish.
• Personalized & Comprehensive Services: From student visa and visitor visa support to permanent residency programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and family sponsorship, we offer solutions tailored to each client’s needs.
• Strong Partnerships in Canada: Phan Immigration works closely with educational institutions, immigration lawyers, and businesses across Canada—helping you integrate smoothly and build your future in a new country.

Let Phan Immigration be your companion on the path to achieving your study goals in Canada. We’re ready to support you—from preparing your application to completing your school enrollment procedures.

Contact Us:

• Canada Office:
  • Unit 700, 333 Bering Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M8Z 3A8, Canada
  • Hotline: +1 647-390-0912
• Vietnam Office:
  •  8th Floor – 147 Hai Bà Trưng, District 3, HCMC, Vietnam
  • Hotline: 078 208 4466

FAQs About Canada Student Visa

Do I need to attend an interview to get a Canada student visa?

Currently, Vietnamese students are not required to attend an interview as part of the Canada student visa process. However, in certain special cases, the Canadian Embassy may request an interview after reviewing your application.

The purpose of the interview is to verify the accuracy of your documents, clarify your study plan, and confirm your financial capacity. Whether or not an interview is required is entirely at the discretion of the Embassy. Therefore, although uncommon, it is important to be prepared in case you are invited.

Is it difficult to get a Canada student visa?

Obtaining a student visa for Canada is not too complicated if you prepare your documents thoroughly and follow the required procedures. As long as your application is clear, detailed, and meets the requirements of the Embassy, your chances of approval are high.

According to statistics, in 2018, Vietnam ranked 5th among countries with the highest number of international students in Canada—highlighting its growing appeal as a study destination for Vietnamese students.

How long is a Canada student visa valid?

A Canadian student visa is typically valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the length of your study program. The Consulate will determine the visa duration based on your documents, including the letter of acceptance, tuition payment confirmation, health status, financial capability, and your study plan.

Can I work with a Canada tourist visa?

No, a Canada Visitor Visa does not permit you to work in Canada. If you wish to work, you must apply for a Work Permit or another type of work authorization.

Working without a valid permit is a violation of immigration law and may lead to serious consequences, such as deportation or entry bans.

Before applying for a Visitor Visa, it’s essential to clearly define your purpose of travel. If you’re only planning to explore and visit, a Visitor Visa is appropriate. However, if you intend to work, you must meet the requirements for a Canadian work visa.

We hope this article has given you a clearer understanding of the Canada student visa process and the various visa options available. If you have any further questions or need personalized assistance, feel free to contact Phan Immigration—a government-licensed and trusted immigration consultancy.

With a team of experienced experts, Phan Immigration is committed to walking alongside you, offering tailored solutions to help you achieve your dream of studying in the land of maple leaves.