Canada student visa for Indians – Study permit
A study permit lets you study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Most college and bachelor’s students also need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL), because Canada caps new study permits.
Intakes: September · January · May
Key facts
- Visa fee: CAD 150 study permit + CAD 85 biometrics
- Living funds: CAD 23,448 for one student (applications from 1 Sept 2026), plus first-year tuition and travel
- PAL: Needed for most college and bachelor’s students; master’s and PhD students at public institutions are exempt
- English test: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAEL or Duolingo — as your institution requires
- Work while studying: Off campus up to 24 hours a week in term; full-time in scheduled breaks
- After graduation: Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) up to 3 years, depending on your programme and field of study
- Family: Spouse open work permit only for master’s (16 months+), PhD and some professional programmes
Important updates
- The Student Direct Stream (SDS) ended in November 2024 — all Indian applicants now use the regular process.
- The proof-of-funds amount is updated every year — check IRCC before you apply.
Documents
- Passport
- Letter of acceptance from a DLI
- PAL (if required)
- Proof of funds: GIC, tuition receipt, bank statements or education loan
- Statement of purpose
- Mark sheets and degrees
- Language test result
- Medical exam (if requested)
How to apply
- Letter of acceptance – Get admitted by a DLI and receive your PAL if you need one.
- Arrange funds – Pay first-year tuition or show it, and arrange living funds (e.g. a GIC).
- Apply online – Submit your study permit application in your IRCC account.
- Biometrics – Give fingerprints and photo at a VFS centre in India.
- Decision – If approved, send your passport for the visa; the permit is issued at the border.