Table of Contents
What is the student direct stream?
SDS stream launched by IRCC facilitates expedited processing of study permits for international students planning to enrol and study in a postsecondary designated learning institution in Canada.
What is the eligibility criteria?
Must be a resident of one of the participating countries:
Antigua and Barbuda
Brazil
China
Colombia
Costa Rica
India
Morocco
Pakistan
Peru
Philippines
Senegal
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago
Vietnam
Have letter of acceptance from post-secondary designated learning institute
Have paid your tuition fee for the first year of study
Have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate of $20,635 CAD
Have medical exam prior to applying
Get a police certificate prior to applying
IELTS academic or general with no less than 6.0 band in each component (reading, writing, speaking and listening)
What is the normal processing times?
Normally, applications are processed within 20 calendar days, as stated on IRCC’s website.
Can I bring my spouse or dependents with me?
If you want your spouse to accompany you to Canada, he or she can apply for a open work permit allowing them to work for any employer in Canada. In addition, you can bring your kids with you, and they’ll get a free Canadian education.
Can I work in Canada while I'm studying?
Yes, you’re allowed to work in Canada while you’re studying for up to 20 hours per week. The IRCC announced on November 15, 2022, that international students with off-campus work authorization could work more than 20 hours per week .
What is a GIC and when is it required?
A GIC is a type of investment available in Canada that guarantees a return for a specified time period. Guaranteed Investment Certificates are available at several financial institutions including:
Bank of Beijing
Bank of China
Bank of Montreal (BMO)
Bank of Xian Co. Ltd.
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)
China Everbright Bank
DesjardinsFootnote1
Habib Canadian Bank
HSBC Bank of Canada
ICICI Bank
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China
RBC Royal Bank
SBI Canada Bank
Scotiabank
Simplii Financial
TD Canada Trust
Before you can apply for the SDS stream, you’ll need to invest $10,000 CAD in a GIC. The money will be released into the student’s account once they have arrived in Canada.
What are provincial attestation letters, and do I need one?
A provincial attestation letter serves as proof that the foreign national student has been accounted for in accordance with a provincial allocation for the national study limit. This is a new requirement issued by the IRCC. Certain students are granted an exemption from this requirement, such as those who are pursuing doctoral or master’s degrees.
Regarding provincial attestation letters, further details can be found at the link provided below.
How much GIC do I require for additional family members?
Number of family members (including the applicant) | Amount of funds required per year (not including tuition) |
1 | CAN$20,635 |
2 | CAN$25,690 |
3 | CAN$31,583 |
4 | CAN$38,346 |
5 | CAN$43,492 |
6 | CAN$49,051 |
7 | CAN$54,611 |
If more than 7 people, each additional family member | CAN$5,559 |
Example
If you and 2 family members want to come to a province (other than Quebec) for a year, you will need $31,583 for living expenses.
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