Visas and Study Permits

1. online using Student Direct Stream
2. through a Visa Application Centre

You may be able to apply online for your study permit through Student Direct Stream. Currently legal residents from these 7 countries are eligible for the Student Direct Stream:

• China
• India
• Morocco
• Pakistan
• Philippines
• Senegal
• Vietnam

The other option is a Visa Application Centre. Currently there are over 130 of these centres in over 90 countries.

These centres aren't where decisions are made, but they accept applications. And, they provide other services.

• answer your questions in your local language
• provide computers to apply online
• collect your biometrics such as fingerprints and photograph
• schedule interviews
• provide photographs and photocopies
• securely transmit application documents and passports

Citizenship and Immigration Canada offers 5 tips to help you complete your study permit application. Following these suggestions will prevent delays from missing documents. These tips are:

1. Apply online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC). If there's a centre in your country consider using it.

2. Apply early. You can check average visa processing times. Even though your country may have a quicker average processing time, it's best to apply at least 4 to 6 months before your classes start.

3. Get your medical exam and police certificates as soon as possible. You aren't required to submit them with your application, but if you do, your application can be processed faster.

• To find out if you require a medical exam for your visa, check the list of countries/territories Immigration Canada requires medical exams from.

• You may need a police certificate. The basic student visa doesn't require this certificate, but it may be asked for later in the application process.

4. Make sure all the required documents are complete and legible (can be easily read). If information is missing or unclear, your application will be delayed.

• Use the document check list in the application kit.

• Provide certified translations in English of all supporting documents such as transcripts, police certificates and other official documents.

• Check with the Canadian visa office in your region or country to see if you need to fill out any additional forms or provide any additional documents.

• There are videos you can watch with tips on how to fill out your application.

5. Pay the proper fee. In many countries you can pay in the local currency. Check with your local office. If you don't pay, or submit the wrong amount, you application could be delayed or denied.

If you are a current International Lakeland student needing to extend your study permit or request a Visa extension letter, you will need the Study Permit and Visa Extension Request form.