Category Archives: Study Visa

IRCC approved four new English tests for the Canada SDS (Student Direct Stream) study visa on August 10, 2023 but they did not update the GCKey. They seem to be experiencing a system error, and newly approved language tests do not appear as an option for applicants to select in the GCKey.

However, the Canadian Immigration Development is working on resolving the error. An information on how to apply using the new English tests has been updated by IRCC to further assist applicants. IRCC also shared a temporary measure for Study visa applicants.

Candidates can use the below instructions to submit their English tests to have their applications considered for Student Direct Stream (SDS).

• When asked if you’ve taken a language test in the past 2 years, select ‘Yes – IELTS’ even if you have CAEL, PTE, CELPIP, or TOEFL results.

Beginning today August 10, 2023, IRCC will start accepting 4 new English tests for Canada study visa under Student Direct Stream (SDS). Earlier on only IELTS general or academic were acceptable proficiency test for Canada study visa under SDS.

Remember, in-person testing is required for all the tests. SDS candidates cannot take remote-proctored examinations online.

Study visa holders coming to Canada must go through immigration checks before being issued study permits by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Officers.  The Officers have the right to approve/decline students entry to Canada if required documentations are not provided, longer wait periods are therefore expected at the Canadian airports/land border.

The Border Services Officer (BSO) directs arriving students to the location where they are to submit their applications for a study permit.

Students are however advised to carefully review their study permit after collection.

See below full List of Documents Required For New International Students

These documents should all be checked before your ticket is booked as it determines if you are to book or not.

As per CBSA, if you do not have all of the listed 7 documents below, your immigration check at the Canadian airport might be delayed or you could be returned to your home country.

To enter Canada, new international students must have the following:

• acceptable travel documentation, such as a passport
• the letter of introduction from the port of entry that the visa office sent you when they approved your study permit, or a valid study permit if you have one.
• a copy of your school’s legitimate letter of acceptance
• a valid study visa foil stamped in the passport or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for visa exempt countries
• proof of sufficient funds to sustain your stay, such as GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)
• No criminal or immigration-related convictions (unless a pardon or rehabilitation has been granted).
• Be in excellent health and have valid immigration medical exam results at the time of entry into Canada.
  • If your medical exam expires prior to entering Canada, then you need a new medical exam even after getting your visa stamped.

It is of necessity to keep these documents accessible in your handbag and NOT in your checked luggage or bag.

See below eligibility requirements to enter Canada as an International Student

International Students need to first make sure that they meet the overall eligibility requirements to travel.

To enter Canada as a student, individuals need to:

• possess a valid study visa or a letter of introduction proving they were approved to study; and
• prove they are attending a designated learning institution (DLI).

As per CBSA, study visa holders are advised to travel as soon as possible after receiving their visa stamp to avoid the high volume of travellers in late August, early September, and early January.

Need further clarification or assistance? Send us an email on eseumohimmigration@gmail.com