Canada has become one of the most popular destinations for Pakistani students seeking higher education. With world-class universities, post-study work opportunities, and a welcoming multicultural environment, thousands of students apply for a Canadian student visa from Pakistan each year.
If you’re planning to study in Canada, here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Canadian student visa from Pakistan in 2025.
Why Study in Canada?
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Top-ranked universities like University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, and University of Alberta.
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Affordable tuition compared to the USA, UK, and Australia.
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Work opportunities: Students can work up to 20 hours/week during studies and full-time during breaks.
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Pathway to PR: International students can apply for Permanent Residency after studies.
Types of Canadian Student Visas
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Study Permit – The most common visa, valid for the duration of your course.
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Student Direct Stream (SDS) – A faster visa processing option for Pakistani students who meet financial and language requirements.
✅ Step-by-Step Guide: Apply for a Canadian Student Visa from Pakistan
1. Get Admission Offer from a DLI
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Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
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Once accepted, you will receive an Offer of Admission Letter.
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Without this letter, you cannot apply for a study permit.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Here is the checklist of essential documents:
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Valid passport (should cover your entire study duration).
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Offer of Admission Letter from a DLI.
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Proof of funds (bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor documents).
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Passport-sized photographs.
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Medical exam results (from an approved panel physician).
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Police clearance certificate (to prove good character).
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English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL, minimum CLB 6 for SDS).
3. Show Proof of Financial Support
As of 2025, you must show at least:
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First year tuition fees (varies by program/university).
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Living expenses: Minimum CAD 20,635 (~PKR 4.3 million) per year.
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Additional funds if a spouse or family members are accompanying.
4. Apply Online via IRCC Portal
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Create an account on the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website.
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Fill out the study permit application form.
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Upload scanned documents.
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Pay the application fee (CAD 150) and biometrics fee (CAD 85).
5. Submit Biometrics
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After application submission, you will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter.
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Book an appointment at a VAC (Visa Application Centre) in Pakistan (Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi).
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Provide fingerprints and photo.
6. Medical Examination
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Take a medical exam at an IRCC-approved hospital or clinic in Pakistan.
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Results are sent directly to IRCC.
7. Wait for Visa Decision
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Processing time usually takes 6–12 weeks under the normal stream.
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SDS applications are processed faster (approx. 4–6 weeks).
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You may be asked for additional documents or an interview.
8. Receive Your Study Permit Approval
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If approved, you will get a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction.
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At the Canadian airport, the immigration officer issues your Study Permit.
Tips to Increase Visa Approval Chances
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Maintain strong financial proof (bank statements, tax returns, sponsor letters).
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Write a clear Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your study plans.
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Choose a program relevant to your past education or career.
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Avoid gaps in documents and ensure everything is translated into English.
Canadian Student Visa Timeline for Pakistani Students (2025)
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September Intake (Fall): Apply between January–April.
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January Intake (Winter): Apply between May–August.
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May Intake (Spring): Apply between September–November.
✅ Final Thoughts
Applying for a Canadian student visa from Pakistan may seem challenging, but with the right preparation, it becomes a straightforward process. Make sure you:
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Get admission to a recognized DLI.
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Prepare all financial and academic documents.
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Apply early to avoid processing delays.
With determination and proper planning, your dream of studying in Canada can turn into reality.
