Canada Student Visa Guide for Sri Lankan Students: Process, Eligibility & Application

Canada’s world-class education is in such high demand that the country is struggling to keep up! With rising pressure on housing and student services, the government has now set a limit of 437,000 study permits for 2025, says the Reuters news agency. But here’s the catch—it’s not because demand is dropping. It’s because Canada simply can’t handle the rush!

If you're dreaming of being one of the lucky ones studying in Canada, a Canadian Student Visa is your ticket. Canada lets you study, work, and soak up everything it has to offer. It’s not just paperwork; it’s the start of your Canadian adventure!

Here’s What’s Inside This Guide:

Are you eligible for a Canadian student visa?

What types of Canadian student visas can you apply for?

A simple guide to the application process (with some cool tips!)

What happens next? Adjusting to life in Canada!

Ready to start this exciting journey? Let’s go!

Ready to make your Canadian study dream a reality? Let’s check off the eligibility boxes, so you’re all set for the next step! Here’s what you need to have in place:

Acceptance Letter: You’ll need an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This is your ticket, confirming you’ve been accepted to a recognized school.

Proof of Financial Support: According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), to qualify for a Canadian student visa, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources. As of 2024, students need at least CAD 20,635 per year for living expenses, in addition to tuition fees.. Think bank statements, scholarship awards, or a letter of financial support from your sponsor.

Language Proficiency: You’ll need to prove your ability to understand and communicate in English or French. Common tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent exams. If you’ve already studied in English or French, check if you qualify for an exemption!

Genuine Intent: The Canadian government wants to make sure you’re heading there for studies, not just a longer vacation. You’ll need to show that you intend to return home after your studies unless you're applying for post-study work opportunities.

Health and Character Requirements: A medical exam may be required, depending on where you’re coming from. And don’t forget a police clearance certificate if it’s part of the process for your country.

Other Criteria: Some countries or provinces may have extra requirements. Be sure to double-check with your local Canadian embassy or the official IRCC website for anything specific to your situation.

Ready to Apply? Here’s What You Can Do Now!

• Get your financial documents in order early, like bank statements or sponsorship letters.
• Gather your acceptance letter and language test results.
• Visit the official IRCC website for any country-specific details.

With all the right documents in hand, you’re well on your way to studying in Canada!

To turn your dream of studying in Canada into reality, you need the right study permit or student visa. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for smooth entry and compliance with Canadian immigration rules.

Canada Student Visa vs. Study Permit

• A Canada student visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for entry into Canada.
• A study permit allows international students to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
• While a study permit is mandatory for most programs, additional permits may be required for work placements or post-graduation employment.

Now, let's break down the types of study permits and related visas for international students in Canada.

• For students enrolled in academic, vocational, or professional programs at a DLI.
• Required for most international students pursuing full-time studies in Canada.
• Work rights on a Canadian student visa: Allows part-time work (20 hours/week) during academic sessions and full-time work during scheduled breaks. However, students in high-demand fields (such as healthcare) may qualify for additional work rights under special IRCC policies

Eligibility & Requirements:

1. Must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
2. If your program includes a mandatory work placement, apply separately for a Co-op Work Permit.
3. This permit does not allow post-graduation work; for that, you must apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing your program.

1. For students whose programs include a mandatory co-op or internship component.
2. Allows students to gain valuable work experience while studying in Canada.

Eligibility & Requirements:

• Must have a valid study permit and proof of mandatory work placement as part of the program.
• Only valid for work placements during your studies—it does not allow post-graduation employment.
• After graduation, you need a PGWP to work in Canada.

• Allows international graduates to stay and work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of the completed program.
• Essential for students looking to gain work experience in Canada after graduation.

Eligibility & Requirements:

• Must have completed a full-time program at a DLI.
• Length of the permit depends on the duration of the study program (minimum eight months).
• This is the main permit for working in Canada after graduation.

• Required for students from visa-required countries to enter Canada.
• A TRV is needed along with the study permit for eligible international students.

Eligibility & Requirements:

• Required for students from specific nationalities (check Canadian visa policies).
• Only allows entry into Canada—does not permit work placements or post-graduation employment.

• Required for visa-exempt students flying to Canada.
• A quick online process for students from visa-exempt countries.

Eligibility & Requirements:

• Students must apply online for an eTA before traveling.
• Does not permit work placements or post-graduation work—students need a PGWP after completing their studies to work in Canada.