Hey there, international students with Canadian dreams! Have you heard the buzz about Canada’s new Canadian student visa requirements? It’s true, the number of international students allowed has been capped, and getting a study permit might seem trickier. Some students are considering entering Canada on a visitor visa and then applying for a study permit later. But is this a wise move? Let’s break it down.
Why the Change?
Canada wants to manage its immigration levels. So, for 2024, there’s a limit on student permit approvals. This might create more competition for those coveted spots.
What’s New for Canadian Student Visas?
Students now need an attestation letter from the province where their college is located. These letters are limited, so act fast! There might be delays if your chosen college’s allocation runs out.
The Misleading Shortcut: Visitor Visa to Study Permit?
Some advisors might suggest entering on a visitor visa and switching to a study permit later. This might seem tempting due to faster visitor visa processing times in India. However, there are crucial things to consider:
- Is it legal? Yes, applying for a study permit while on a visitor visa is legal. But remember, visitor visas are for temporary stays, not studies.
- Is it faster? Maybe initially. But converting to a study permit within Canada involves a similar application process, including DLI (Designated Learning Institution) acceptance and financial proof. You might even need to extend your visitor visa, adding cost and complexity.
- Is it successful? Not guaranteed. The cap on international students applies even to those applying from within Canada.
Better Options for Aspiring Students
Here’s some good news:
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Direct Study Visa Application:
Don’t be discouraged! The success rate for student visas is still high, especially with the new streamlined process. Provinces are issuing attestation letters, so processing times might improve.
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Stand Out from the Crowd:
Aim for high scores in English proficiency tests like IELTS or PTE. Strong scores can boost your application.
The Takeaway:
Entering Canada on a visitor visa with the intention of converting to a study permit is a risky strategy. It’s complex, costly, and doesn’t guarantee success.
For a smoother journey, focus on a strong student visa application. C2C Consultancy can guide you through the process and help you achieve your Canadian study dreams!