Indian students applying to universities and colleges in Canada can now expect faster visa processing through the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program launched by the Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

SDS visa processing

Unlike the usual visa processing that may take up to 2-3 months, SDS allows students from India to avail their visa in 4-6 weeks. When a student who meets the eligibility, criteria applies via SDS, most applications are processed within 20 calendar days.

A replacement to the erstwhile SPP program, SDS has more stringent rules and regulations to fulfill. However, it can be extremely beneficial for those who meet the criteria as it provides easy visa processing for SDS-entitled DLI institutions and requires less financial documentation.

Before we move ahead, you’d need to understand a little about the Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) and Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs).

To apply for a study permit via the SDS program, it is mandatory to acquire a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) valued at CAD 10,000 or as specified by Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the designated province of arrival. For students seeking a study permit outside of the SDS (e.g. for university programs), a GIC may also serve as proof of funds to support their living expenses for the initial year of their stay in Canada.

A GIC is a secure investment option (similar to a fixed or term deposit) that assures the complete return of the original investment and interest earned within a pre-determined and fixed timeframe.

Banks that offer GIC in India -

ICICI - Canadian

Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)

SBI Canada - Scotiabank

HSBC Bank of Canada

As per the latest update, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that they will start accepting additional English language tests for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa program, starting from August 10, 2023. IELTS has been accepted in the study permit program from the beginning, and the good news for IELTS test takers is that there is no change to the required band score of 6.

This means applicants who choose the IELTS Academic require a minimum overall band score of 6.0, while applicants who sit the IELTS General Training test will need a minimum band score of 6.0 in each skill: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

The overall SDS permit score requirements set by the IRCC for academic tests are as as follows:

Academic	CAEL	TOEFL iBT	PTE
6.0	60	83	60

According to Pearson*, a PTE Academic score of 60 is equivalent to an IELTS band score of 6.5 to 7.0, which is a full band higher than PTE.

If you meet the criteria, you’ll have to submit the following documents:

Letter of acceptance from a DLI

Proof of payment of tuition fee for your first year of study

Proof of Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) payment (certificate/letter of attestation)

IELTS TRF or TEF scorecard

Copy of your medical examination from an authorised panel of doctors

Relevant academic background with complete academic documents

Additional requirement of CAQ for students intending to study in Quebec

Q1. What are the requirements for a study permit in Canada?

Ans. You will need to have been accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, provide proof of financial support, demonstrate that you will leave Canada at the end of your studies, and pass a medical exam if required. You may also need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photographs).

Q2. How much money do I need to show for a study permit in Canada?

Ans. You will need to show that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your studies. The exact amount you will need to show will depend on the length of your course and where you will be studying in Canada.

Q3. What level of English proficiency is required for a study permit in Canada?

Ans. You will need to demonstrate that you can speak, read, write, and understand English or French at the required level for your course. This will usually mean passing an approved language test such as IELTS.

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Q4. How do I apply for a study permit in Canada?

Ans. You can apply online through the Government of Canada's website or by paper application. You will need to provide all of the required documents, including your passport, letter of acceptance from a DLI, evidence of your finances, and language test results.

Q5. How long does it take to get a study permit in Canada?

Ans. The processing time for a study permit application can vary depending on where you are applying from and the volume of applications being processed at the time. It is recommended to apply as early as possible, as the process can take several weeks or even months.

Does the SDS Replace IRCC’s Regular Study Permit Stream?

The SDS doesn’t replace IRCC’s regular study permit, but in simple terms, it’s just an expedited stream. In case a student applies for the SDS, but doesn’t qualify, their application will be processed under regular processing procedures.

Which of the English proficiency tests are accepted under SDS application?

Under the SDS program, you need to show proof of your IELTS Exam, as other English Language proficiency tests are not accepted under the new SDS category.

Why should you choose SDS over non-SDS?

SDS applications are processed much faster compared to Non-SDS student visa applications. This is because SDS applications receive priority processing, which means that you will receive your visa decision faster and can start your studies in Canada sooner.

Is GIC needed for Non-SDS?

No, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is not required for non-Student Direct Stream (non-SDS) applicants. A GIC is a specific requirement for students applying through the Student Direct Stream program.

Is SOP required for the SDS category?

Yes, a Statement of Purpose (SOP) is typically required for students applying for a student visa through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program.