Canada Student Visa Requirements 2025: Eligibility, Documents, IELTS/PTE Scores & Process

Planning to study in Canada in 2025? Canada continues to be a top destination for international students due to its quality education, post-study work opportunities, and multicultural environment. However, before packing your bags, it's crucial to understand the latest Canada student visa requirements, processes, fees, and new rules that affect international students.

What Is a Canada Study Permit?

A Canada Study Permit is an official document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). You must apply for a study permit before travelling to Canada, and you should receive an acceptance letter from a DLI before applying.

Note: It is important to apply for your Canada student visa well ahead of time because it can take up to 3 months to get processed..

Documents Required for a Canada Student Visa in 2025

To apply for a student visa (study permit) in 2025, you need to submit several documents. Here's the latest checklist:

• Valid passport
• Letter of acceptance from a DLI
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, GICs, etc.)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• English language proficiency test score (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
• Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) – mandatory for undergraduate and non-degree programs
• Immigration Medical Examination (IME) (if required)
• Police clearance certificate (if required)
• Passport-size photographs
• Biometrics

New Rules for Canada Student Visa in 2025

Here are the major changes and updates to student visa regulations in 2025:

• Work Limit Increase: International students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions.
• Temporary Cap on Student Permits: Canada has placed a 2-year cap (2024–2026) on new international student permits to address housing and resource pressure. In 2025, approximately 485,000 student visas will be issued.
• Mandatory Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): Students applying for undergraduate or college diploma programs must submit a PAL issued by the relevant Canadian province.

Medical Documents for Canada Student Visa

Due to strict post-pandemic immigration measures, Canada continues to mandate medical checks for international students. Here's what you'll need for the Immigration Medical Examination (IME):

• Appointment confirmation with a panel physician
• Valid passport
• Medical history report
• Chest X-ray
• Blood and urine tests
• Panel physician’s report submission

Step-by-Step Process for Canada Student Visa Application

Here’s the updated visa application process for 2025:

1. Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

• Research and apply to a government-approved DLI. Make sure your desired course and institution are recognized by IRCC.

2. Receive Your Letter of Acceptance

• Once accepted, obtain your official letter of acceptance from the institution. This is mandatory to start the visa application.

3. Apply for a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)

• If required for your program, your institution will guide you in applying for the PAL from the provincial government.

4. Begin Your Online Visa Application

• Visit the official IRCC website and follow the instructions to apply online. You’ll be guided through eligibility questions and required documents.

5. Obtain a Personal Checklist Code

• Answer eligibility questions on the CIC portal to receive a personalized checklist code and application instructions valid for 60 days.

6. Create a MyCIC Account

• Use your checklist code to create an account on MyCIC, where you will upload all documents and complete your application.

7. Pay Visa and Biometrics Fees

• Student Visa Fee: CAD 150
• Biometrics Fee: CAD 85

8. Submit Biometrics

• Visit a VAC (Visa Application Centre) to submit your biometric data (fingerprints and photo).

IELTS Requirement for Canada Student Visa 2025

Your IELTS score requirement depends on your level of study. Here are the updated band score requirements for 2025: