Canada Student Visa from Nepal
Canada Student Visa (Study Permit) from Nepal
The Canada Student Permit allows international students to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Nepali students can apply through the SDS (Student Direct Stream) for faster processing.
Step-by-Step Process
Receive Offer / Acceptance Letter
You must have an acceptance letter from a DLI in Canada before applying for a study permit.
Obtain NOC from Nepal MOE
Apply for No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Nepal Ministry of Education. Required for all Nepali students going abroad.
Get IELTS / PTE Score
SDS requires minimum IELTS 6.0 (no band below 6.0). Non-SDS accepts IELTS 6.0+ with wider bank statement requirements.
Open GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)
SDS requires a GIC of CA$10,000 from a designated Canadian bank (Scotiabank, CIBC, etc.). Non-SDS requires bank statements showing 12 months of funds.
Gather Documents & Apply Online
Apply via IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) online portal. Upload: offer letter, passport, IELTS, GIC, bank statements, SOP, NOC, photos.
Biometrics
After submitting your application, you will receive a biometrics request. Visit a VAC (Visa Application Centre) in Kathmandu to provide fingerprints and photo.
Receive Study Permit
SDS processing: 20–25 working days. Non-SDS: 8–12 weeks. A study permit letter (PoR) is issued — the actual visa is stamped at the port of entry.
Required Documents
- Acceptance letter from DLI
- Valid passport
- IELTS / PTE score report
- GIC confirmation (SDS) or bank statements
- NOC from Nepal MOE
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Educational transcripts
- Medical examination (if required)
- Biometrics
Expert Tips
- ✓ Apply SDS for faster processing (20–25 days vs 8+ weeks)
- ✓ Your SOP must clearly explain your intent to return to Nepal after graduation
- ✓ Ensure no band below 6.0 in IELTS for SDS
- ✓ Book your GIC early — it takes 2–3 weeks to process