Canada is internationally acknowledged for its superior education system, inclusive multicultural atmosphere, and robust employment prospects after graduation.
With prestigious universities and an elevated quality of life, it stands as a premier choice for Pakistani students seeking education abroad.
Students in Pakistan aspiring to continue their education in Canada must apply for a study permit, which functions as the Canadian study visa. This article guides you through the entire process from determining eligibility to your arrival.
1. Check Your Eligibility
Before starting, make sure you meet these requirements:
- Letter of Acceptance from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Check some top-ranked (DLI) universities and colleges of Canada: https://iamedfolio.com/destinations/canada/  - Proof of sufficient funds: at least CAD 20,635/year living expenses (or equivalent in GIC plus tuition)
- Valid passport
- Medical exam and police clearance, if required
- A strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) showing why you’ll study in Canada and how you’ll return
2. Time to Create Your IRCC Online Account & Apply
Visit the official IRCC Study Permit page then apply for a study permit on Canada.ca
Sign up using a GCKey or a Sign-In Partner. Complete the online application and pay, Student permit fee CAD 150 and Biometrics fees CAD 85.
3. Now Prepare & Upload Documents:
Required documents include:
- Acceptance letter from a DLI
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Quebec’s CAQ (if applicable)
- Proof of funds (bank statements, GIC certificate, scholarship letter)
- Academic transcripts
- Passport-sized photos (if needed)
- Completed forms (IMM 1294 and IMM 5814E for SOP)
- Medical exam results (if requested)
- Police clearance certificate (if required)
4. Biometrics & Medical Examination:
After you submit your application, the IRCC will issue a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).
You must visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi) to provide your fingerprints and photograph within 30 days.
If required, undergo a medical examination with a physician approved by IRCC in Pakistan.
5. Processing and Waiting Period:
As of June 3, 2025, the standard processing time for applicants from Pakistan is approximately 2.5 months (around 77 days).
Historically, the majority of decisions are made within 8 to 12 weeks.
6. Decision from Embassy& Next Steps:
If approved:
You will be issued a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction.
A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) will be provided if necessary.
Upon your arrival in Canada, present these documents along with your passport and acceptance letter.
If denied:
You have the option to reapply, ensuring that you address any issues mentioned in the refusal letter.
A robust Statement of Purpose (SOP) that emphasizes your connections to Pakistan may assist in future applications.
7. Timelines & Tips Summary:
| Step | Approx. Time or Fee | Time Saving Techniques |
| Account creation & document upload | Immediate | Start creating your IRCC account early |
| Fees | CAD 150 + CAD 85 | Save receipts for both |
| Biometrics & medical | Usually, within 30 days of BIL | Book a VAC appointment quickly |
| Processing | 2.5 months | Apply at least 3–4 months before the term starts |
| Approval arrival | Letter of Introduction & TRV | Prepare docs for arrival |
Why Pursue Education in Canada through Edfolio?
At Edfolio International Educational Consultants, we assist Pakistani students throughout the entire process, selecting the appropriate program, choosing a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), crafting a Statement of Purpose (SOP), conducting a comprehensive application review, and planning for post-visa activities. We have successfully aided numerous students in constructing robust applications and steering clear of frequent pitfalls (such as inadequate financial resources or ambiguous academic objectives).
Important Things To Follow:
- Submit your application as soon as possible, particularly with regard to biometrics and medical appointments.
- Ensure that your application is thorough and well-articulated.
- Provide high-resolution scans.
- Arrange for medical examinations without delay if they are requested.
- Monitor your application status and reply swiftly to inquiries from IRCC.
Conclusion:
Although the process of applying for a Canadian study visa from Pakistan may appear complicated, a systematic approach and careful attention to detail can render it completely manageable. Ensure that you fulfill the eligibility requirements, submit a comprehensive application online, and remain proactive throughout each stage.
If you need personalized support with your study permit application, statement of purpose, or document evaluation.
Contact Edfolio International, we are here to assist you in achieving your aspiration of studying in Canada.
Do not hesitate to inquire at any time regarding universities, scholarships, or program alignment!