Canada is one of the top study destinations for Pakistani students. It has good universities, safe cities, and a clear path to work after graduation. But getting a study visa for Canada from Pakistan takes planning. The rules changed in late 2024, and a few more changes came in 2026.
This guide explains everything in simple steps. You will learn what a study visa is, who needs one, how to apply, what documents you need, and how much it costs.
What Is a Canada Study Visa?
A Canada study visa is officially called a study permit. It is a document from Canada immigration department, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). It allows you to study at a Designated Learning Institution, or DLI, in Canada.
A DLI is a school approved by the Canadian government to host international students. Not every school in Canada is a DLI, so you must check this before you apply anywhere.
Who Needs a Study Permit?
If you plan to study in Canada for more than 6 months, you need a study permit. If your course is shorter than 6 months, you may only need a visitor visa instead.
Most Pakistani students applying for a degree, diploma, or certificate program will need a full study permit.
How to Apply for a Study Visa in Canada: Step-by-Step
Here is the full process, broken into simple steps.
Step 1: Get Accepted by a DLI
Before you apply for a visa, you need an offer of admission from a Canadian school on the DLI list. Apply to a few schools, compare programs and costs, and accept the offer that fits you best. You will get a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). You need this letter to apply for your study permit.
Step 2: Check If You Need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Starting in 2024, most study permit candidates will additionally need to get a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) from their school’s province. Usually your school will help you get this letter.
One change for 2026: effective January 1, 2026, master’s and doctorate students at public institutions will no longer need a PAL. Bachelor’s, diploma, and certificate students at public and private colleges still need one. Always confirm with your institution, since restrictions can change.
Step 3: Prepare Your Proof of Funds
You must show you can pay for your tuition and living costs. For applicants outside Quebec, a single student must show about CAD 22,895 for one year of living expenses. This amount is separate from your first-year tuition fee and travel costs.
You can show proof of funds through:
- Bank statements (usually the last 4 to 6 months)
- A bank draft or letter of credit
- Proof of a student/education loan
- A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), if your bank offers one
Step 4: Gather Your Documents
Collect every document IRCC asks for before you start your online application. A missing document is one of the most common reasons for delays.
Step 5: Create an IRCC Account and Apply Online
Go to the official IRCC website and create a free account. Most Pakistani students apply online, since it is faster than paper applications. Fill in the form carefully, upload your documents, and pay the required fees.
Step 6: Give Biometrics
After you submit your application, you may need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan. IRCC will send you instructions on where and when to go.
Step 7: Wait for a Decision
Once your application is complete, IRCC reviews it. If approved, you get a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. You show this letter, along with your passport and LOA, when you arrive in Canada. The final study permit is issued at the airport or border.
Documents Needed for a Canada Study Visa
Here is the general document checklist for Pakistani students:
- Valid passport (must cover your full study period)
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), if required
- Proof of funds
- Passport-size photos (as per IRCC photo rules)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language test result (such as IELTS)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Medical exam report from an approved panel physician
- Police clearance certificate, if requested
How Much Does a Canada Study Visa Cost?
As of 2026, the standard fees are:
- Study permit application fee: CAD 150
- Biometrics fee: CAD 85
Most applicants pay both, so the total is usually around CAD 235. These fees do not include your tuition, proof-of-funds amount, medical exam cost, or courier charges for your visa office.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Canada Study Visa?
Processing time is not fixed. It depends on your application volume, the time of year, and how complete your file is. In 2026, many Pakistani applicants see processing times in the range of 8 to 12 weeks, though this can be shorter or longer.
Because the fast-track SDS route is gone, it is best to apply as early as possible. Try to apply at least 3 to 4 months before your program start date.
Why Do Canada Study Visas Get Refused?
Common reasons for refusal include:
- Unclear or insufficient proof of funds
- An unclear or plagiarized Statement of Purpose
- Doubts about your intent to return to Pakistan after your studies
- Your prior education does not match the program you have selected
- Documents that are incomplete or inconsistent
Final Thoughts
Now getting a Canadian student visa from Pakistan is slightly more difficult than before, but still possible. Get accepted by a DLI, find out whether you require a PAL, have good proof of funding ready, gather all the paperwork, and apply early thru the IRCC online portal.
Theunigrad helps Pakistani students with each step of studying abroad, from selecting the best university to building a successful visa application. Explore additional resources on theunigrad to plan your Canada study travel with confidence.