Nowadays, the Canadian student visa is one of the most popular and sought-after visas. The policies of the Canadian government and opportunities for immigrants make it a more desired destination for students and employees.

Acquiring a Canadian visa is easy, but did you know that a Canadian student visa only enables you to enter the country? If you are a student who wishes to move to Canada for studies, you need to be clear about the difference between a student visa and a student permit. Well, we cannot use a student visa as an admit card for beginning classes at the institution. In order to begin classes in any Canadian institution, international students need to get a study permit apart from a student visa.

What is the difference between a study permit and a study visa?

A student visa is basically a license or permission to enter the country, while a student permit allows you to stay. The study permit contains all the details such as the course level you will study, the reason for visiting, restrictions in terms of work (if any), and the duration of the course of study.

An international student has to apply for a student visa separately. Firstly, you need to secure a study permit- when approved will come with a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA)- These will allow you to enter the country.

Documents mandated to apply for a study permit:

• Your proof of financial support


• Identity proof


• Proof of acceptance or approval

Follow the steps to apply for a study permit in Canada online

• Students usually apply for study visas in Canada via Student Direct Stream (SDS) and non-SDS categories. The requirement to apply online is- a valid debit or credit card, a camera or scanner to create electronic copies of documents,


• It is essential to read the instruction guide before completing your application, even if you are applying online. The instruction guide explains the steps to complete each field on the form.


• You must answer some questions before uploading the forms. These are utilized to create a personalized document checklist of the student. So, international students should prepare answers for the online tool.


• One of the most important things is to find out about the fees you have to pay. In the majority of cases, the amount will include your processing fees and anyone you include on your application and your biometrics. You have to pay these fees at the end of your application session.

Third-party fees: You may need to pay third parties depending on your situation, for language testing, medical exams, police certificates, and services at visa application centre if you use one. You don't have to pay this fee in your online account. You'll pay the amount directly to the third party.

Biometrics fee: In the majority of cases, you should always pay a biometrics fee while submitting the application. Otherwise, you may experience delays. The fee for biometrics covers the cost of collecting digital photos and fingerprints. You need to find out if you need to give your biometrics.

• While applying online, you need to create your online account or sign in. You can use this online account for the payment of fees, to check your status, and to submit your application.