Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students due to its world-class universities, multicultural environment, and student-friendly immigration policies. As of 2025, the Canadian government has implemented updates to its student visa requirements to ensure a smooth, transparent, and secure process for prospective students.
If you’re planning to study in Canada, understanding the latest student visa requirements is crucial. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know — from eligibility criteria and documentation to recent changes and post-arrival obligations.
What Is a Canadian Student Visa?
In Canada, the official document allowing international students to study is known as a study permit. While a study permit is not a visa, it is typically issued alongside a visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA), allowing entry into the country.
Key Updates to Canadian Student Visa Rules (As of 2025)
In recent years, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced several changes aimed at tightening documentation standards and ensuring that only genuine students enter the system.
Key changes include:
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Minimum Cost-of-Living Requirement Increased: As of 2025, students must show proof of funds amounting to at least CAD 20,635 per year, excluding tuition. This replaces the previous figure of CAD 10,000.
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Verification of Admission Letters: IRCC now requires Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to confirm the authenticity of acceptance letters directly with immigration officials.
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Streamlined digital applications with biometric submission integrated via updated portals.
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Stricter compliance checks for fraudulent applications.
Step-by-Step Guide to Student Visa Requirements for Canada
1. Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Before applying for a Canadian study permit, you must first receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI. DLIs are institutions approved by the provincial or territorial governments to host international students.
Requirements:
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LOA must be recent (usually issued within 6 months).
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Should clearly state course details, start/end dates, tuition fees, and conditions of admission (if any).
Tip: Always verify that the institution is on the official DLI list published by IRCC.
2. Proof of Financial Support
You must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself (and any accompanying family members) during your stay in Canada.
Financial requirements (2025):
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Minimum CAD 20,635 per year for living expenses.
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Tuition fees for the first year (varies by institution and program).
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Return transportation costs for you and any dependents.
Accepted financial documents:
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Bank statements (last 4–6 months).
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Letter from financial institution confirming account balance.
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Proof of scholarship or student loan.
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Proof of funding from parents or sponsor (with affidavit, if applicable).
3. Valid Passport and Photos
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your study program. You’ll also need:
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Recent passport-sized photographs as per Canadian visa specifications.
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Digital and physical copies may be required depending on submission method.
4. Completed Application Forms
You must complete and submit the following:
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IMM 1294 – Application for Study Permit made outside of Canada.
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Family Information Form (IMM 5645) – if applicable.
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Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) – if you're working with an immigration consultant or representative.
5. Letter of Explanation or Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Although not mandatory, this document strengthens your application. It should include:
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Why you chose Canada and your specific institution.
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How the program fits into your academic and career plans.
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Evidence of intent to return home after studies (unless applying through immigration pathways).
6. Police Certificate and Medical Exam
In some cases, you may be asked to provide:
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Police clearance certificate proving no criminal record.
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Medical examination by a panel physician approved by IRCC.
These are mandatory if you plan to stay for more than six months and are from a country with high health risks or plan to work in healthcare or childcare sectors.
7. Biometrics Submission
All applicants (except U.S. citizens) between the ages of 14 and 79 must submit biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an authorized Visa Application Centre (VAC).
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Biometrics fee: CAD 85
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Valid for 10 years and required for future applications.
8. Visa Fees
As of 2025, the following fees apply:
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Study permit application: CAD 150
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Biometrics: CAD 85
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Visitor visa (if issued with study permit): Included in the study permit application
Fees are paid online during the application process.
9. Submit Application Online or via VAC
Most students are encouraged to apply online via the IRCC portal. You may also apply through your nearest VAC.
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Upload all documents.
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Pay fees.
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Track your application status through your IRCC account.
Processing Times
Average processing time for study permits is:
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2 to 12 weeks, depending on the country of residence.
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Faster processing may be available via the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for certain countries (e.g., India, China, Vietnam, Philippines, etc.).
After Visa Approval: Arrival in Canada
Once approved, you’ll receive:
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Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction.
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Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or eTA (if applicable).
At the airport or border, you must present:
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POE Letter
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Passport
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LOA
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Proof of funds
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Any additional documents requested
An officer will issue your official study permit upon entry.
Post-Arrival Requirements
Once in Canada:
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Register at your DLI and begin classes.
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Maintain full-time student status.
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Comply with study permit conditions (e.g., work hours limit, academic progress).
Work While Studying
As of 2025, international students can:
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Work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions.
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Work full-time during scheduled breaks.
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Eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after graduation from eligible programs.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s updated student visa process reflects a balance between encouraging global talent and maintaining regulatory integrity. While the requirements in 2025 are more rigorous, they are also more transparent and designed to support genuine students who want to benefit from Canada’s exceptional educational ecosystem.
By following this guide, preparing your documentation carefully, and understanding the latest regulations, you can increase your chances of a successful application and start your academic journey in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.