Saturday, 20 February 2016

Student visa requirement

I have been getting lots of emails lately about medicals, the amount required for bank statements and documents needed to obtain student visa. I have managed to summarize a few points below.

By the way, the current study permit processing time is sitting at 10 weeks for Nigeria as of February 20th 2016. See the link below to get the up to date visa processing time for your country -
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/

If you have already applied online, check your application status here

If your program runs for 6 months or less, you do not need a study permit.

If you are under the age of 17 years old and you are coming to Canada to study without a parent or guardian you will need a signed document from your parents/ guardians in your home country and another signed document from your custodian in Canada. In some cases your school can step in as a custodian.
Minors (children) attending kindergarten do not need a study permit.

If you are already working or studying in Canada with children under the age of 17, they do not need a study permit. However on turning 18 or 19 they should obtain one to continue studying.

Documents Needed


Admission Letter from your school in Canada

Academic Transcripts from your home country (University or Secondary school)

Bank Statement - When it comes down to how much is expected in your bank account, you need the tuition amount (school fees) + $10,000 CAD in your bank account for a single student. For more than one student follow this link: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/study-how-documents.asp#doc4
Although I like to state that the more money you show the more financially grounded you look.

In my opinion I would say pay the first year tuition first and then show them a school fees amount + $10,000 CAD in your bank account. If possible show them that you have enough money to cover your tuition and accommodation for the duration of your study.

 For example, if your tuition is $10,000 per year for a 4 year program. After paying $10,000 if  it is possible to show them that you have $30,000 (3 years tuition) + accommodation fees for 3 years, that would be excellent. Just my opinion.

 If you also have any documents stating your assets please indicate them too.

You will need to show proof of accommodation
This is very important. Your application may look weak if you don't indicate where you intend to reside while you study. They may get the indication that you are not going to study at all. If you have proof of on campus or off campus accommodation document please indicate it.

Police Clearance Certificate
You will need a background check in your home country. Please see the link below to follow the instructions on how to obtain one in your home country. Make sure you hand it in with your application.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/infORmation/security/police-cert/index.asp

Medicals
There are two ways you can do your medical exam. Either you wait for a request from the Canadian consulate or you do an upfront medical examination before handing in your application. I think doing an up front one is beneficial considering how much time it takes.

Language Test
Some countries are required to submit a language test score like TOEFL, IELTS and CELPIP by the school. Check with your school to determine if you need to take a language test.

Follow the procedure below:

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/medical/medexams-temp.asp - see medical exam instructions.

http://www.cic.gc.ca/pp-md/pp-list.aspx - See approved medical centers by country here.
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Where to kick start your application

 

Paper Application
Use the link below, indicate your home country at the bottom and click on "get documents" to access the documents you will need to print.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/student.asp

Online Application
Follow this link: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/study-how.asp
Click on " determine your eligibility and apply".
It will bring you to a page where you will be asked a series of questions. Answer those questions to be directed to the online application. You will need a major credit card - MasterCard, Visa, etc. You can also talk to your local bank about payment options if you don't have a credit card.

You will need access to a computer, a printer and an update to adobe reader.
Be careful to only hand in what is requested. Giving too much details than is required can delay your application.

I have attached a series of screen shots to show what the final page looks like i.e after you answered all the questions. Keep track of your personal reference code or print out that entire page.







See this document checklist - http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/forms/imm5483e.pdf .

Print out your instruction guide: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/guides/5269ETOC.asp

Visit  your country Canada Visa Application Center website; http://www.vfsglobal.ca/canada

Source: www.studentsconnect.ca