Canada is a popular study destination for Indian students due to its diverse culture and high-quality education. However, you need to first get a study permit (often referred to as a student visa) so that you can study at your chosen university.
A study permit is a legal document that allows students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada. It's important to know how long this permit takes to get approved. By understanding the Canada study visa processing time, you can plan better, avoid potential delays and have a smoother application experience.
Key highlights:
- Understanding the Canada Study Permit
- Average Processing Time for 2025 Applications
- Step-by-Step Process to Check Canada Student Visa Timeline
- Factors That Affect Canada Student Visa Processing Times
- How to Track Your Visa Application
- Tips to Avoid Delays in Canada Student Visa Processing Time
- What to Do If There Is a Delay
Understanding the Canada Study Permit
There is only one type of Canadian student permit, called the Study Permit. To get this permit, you have to pass the following eligibility criteria:
- Enrolment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Financial proof to show you can pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation
- A police certificate to demonstrate good character (if required)
- A medical certificate to show you are in good health (if required)
Work Opportunities with a Study Permit
- Eligible students with a study permit in Canada are allowed to work off-campus for up to 24 hours per week during regular academic sessions.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada: After completing a PGWP-eligible programme from a DLI, you can apply for a PGWP, which allows you to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on your level and duration of your study programme.
Average Processing Time for 2025 Applications
The Canada student visa processing times vary, depending on your application and where it is processed. Since it is updated regularly, it is best to check the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the latest details. Usually, if you are applying from India, the processing time is 3 weeks. The Canada student visa processing times start the day the IRCC receives your complete application and end when they make a decision.
Step-by-Step Process To Check Canada Student Visa Timeline
To check the current study permit processing time in Canada, you need to visit the Canada immigration website, where you will find the IRCC applications section. This is where you can:
- Select the application type (Temporary residence- visiting, studying, working).
- Under "Which temporary residence application?" drop-down, select “study permit (from outside Canada)”
- Under "Where are you applying from?" drop-down, select India
- Get the most current processing time update
Factors That Affect Canada Student Visa Processing Times
Several factors influence student visa processing times in Canada:
- Missing documents or incorrectly filled forms cause significant delays.
- The volumes of applications received can delay or speed up the process. Peak application seasons can extend processing times.
- How responsive you are to any IRCC requests for additional information directly impacts processing speed.
- The type of programme or institution you have chosen might affect the time, as some of them require additional verification.
- Delays in booking or attending your biometrics appointment can slow the process.
- Whether you have selected an online or paper application will also impact the processing time. Typically, online applications are processed faster because of easier data handling.
Also Read: Study in Canada without IELTS: A Comprehensive Guide
How to Track Your Visa Application
If you want to track your study visa application, you can use IRCC’s application status tracker, which is available on the official Canadian immigration website. For that, you need to create an account with a unique client identifier (UCI) and your application number. With these details, you can keep track of your application.
Tips to Avoid Delays in Canada Student Visa Processing Time
You can follow these essential tips to avoid delays in your Canada student visa processing time:
- Begin immediately after receiving your acceptance letter from your DLI.
- Follow the official IRCC application guide for your category.
- Submit complete applications with all required documents.
- Book your biometrics collection appointment as soon as you can to provide them within 30 days of receiving the request.
- Pay the study permit fee (CAD 150) using the correct payment methods.
- Provide accurate information to avoid refusal due to misrepresentation.
- Monitor your email and online status regularly for IRCC updates.
Also Read: Explore the Best IT Universities in Canada
What to Do If There Is a Delay
If there is a longer-than-expected delay in your Canada student visa processing time, going beyond the current processing time posted on IRCC's website, you can contact the High Commission of Canada in India. You should write a polite and professional email stating your concern about the delay. Understanding Canada's study permit processing timeline is crucial for planning your educational journey.
Now you can navigate your Canada student visa processing time with ease. If you are planning to study in Canada, at Avanse Financial Services, we offer education loan with 100% financing, quick sanctions and flexible repayment options to make your study abroad journey hassle-free. If you have any doubts, please remember we are just a call away.
