Student Visa to Canada: All you need to know

16 Sept. 2024 | Sozo

Step 1: Get Accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI):

What it means: A DLI is a school approved by the government of Canada to host international students. The admission letter from a DLI approved university in Canada is a crucial document for the visa application. You have to make sure that the Canadian school you choose is listed as a DLI, as you can only apply for a Study Permit with a valid offer from a DLI.

Research institutions with programs of interest, and apply early to meet deadlines. Admission letters are essential for visa applications.

If you have challenges searching these schools, and getting acceptance letter from the school by yourself, it is wise to help guidance from experts or get short trainings.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents:

Passport: Make sure that your passport is valid for the duration of your studies.

Proof of Acceptance: This is the admission letter from your DLI.

Ethiopian students must show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses (about CAD 10,000/year), and travel. 

Study-permit-documents-Canada

You can prepare one of the following documents as a proof of sufficient funds :

  • personal bank statements,
  • sponsorship letters, or
  • scholarships.

Proof of Ties to Ethiopia: This could include family, job, or assets (properties) like vehicles and houses in Ethiopia, which show you intend to return after your studies.

Medical Exam: Depending on how long you plan to stay, you may need an Immigration Medical Examination (IME). You must use a doctor on the approved panel.

The recent Ethiopian currency devaluation and conflicts might require showing stronger financial support due to fluctuating exchange rates and  people’s tendency to migrate to a more secured nation.

Step 3: Create an Online Account on the IRCC Website:

  • Online Account: Go to the IRCC website and create an online account. IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) is where you apply your study permit. Once you create account and apply online, you will be able to track your application using your account.
  • Account Types: When you create your account or sign in, you will see GCkey and Sign-In Partner.  Just select GCkey if you do not have an account with one of the Canadian financial institutions.

Step 4: Complete and Submit Your Study Permit Application

  • Application Form: Complete the study permit form (IMM 1294).

  • Upload Documents: Scan and upload all required documents including:

    1. admission letter you received from a DLI school in Canada,
    2. proof of finances, and
    3. identity documents (passport)
  • Application Fee: Pay the CAD 150 visa application fee using a credit card.

  • Letter of Explanation: Optional but helpful if you want to explain anything about your application, like your intent to return to Ethiopia.

Step 5: Submit Biometrics and Complete Medical Exam:

Medical Exam: After submitting your application, you’ll receive instructions to undergo medical examinations by a Canadian-approved physician.

One known medical exam provider for Canada Visa is the IOM Ethiopia which is located near Bole Medhanialem church, in Addis Ababa.

Medical-exam-to-Canada-Visa

The Doctor will ask your consent for the following examinations and tests to assess your health status:

  • A review of your medical history and current symptoms.
  • Taking your measurements and vital signs.
  • A detailed physical examination to assess your physical and mental status.
  • A chest X-ray.
  • Urine analysis.
  • HIV test.
  • Serum creatinine (test for kidney function).
  • Syphilis test.

Biometrics:You will be required to submit biometrics at the nearest Visa Application Center (VAC). Currently, VACs in Ethiopia are facilitating this process.

Step 5:  Submit Study Permit Application:

Ensure that all documents, including the Letter of Explanation, which states your intent to return to Ethiopia post-study, are accurate and complete.

•Applying online speeds up the process, but paper applications are also accepted.

Step 6: Wait for Processing:

Processing times for Ethiopian applicants vary, typically ranging from 8-12 weeks. Keep an eye and track your application status on the IRCC portal.

Step 7:  Receive Visa Decision:

If your study permit is approved, you’ll receive a Letter of Introduction and possibly a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to Canada.

Visa-approved-canada

•Ethiopian students may be denied of Canada visa if financial proofs are insufficient or documentation is incomplete. If rejected, you have the chance to address the refusal reasons and reapply.

Step 8: Travel to Canada:

Documents to Carry: When you arrive in Canada, you will be asked to show the following original documents:

•Letter of Introduction

•Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), if applicable

•Your passport and the original documents you used to apply for your visa

Port of Entry: A border services officer will issue your Study Permit based on the documents you provide.

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