Non-Student Direct Stream (Non-SDS) / General Student Visa

 

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) provides a faster and simplified visa application process for select countries. However, the Non-SDS Canada Student Visa program opens doors for students worldwide, offering a pathway to pursue education in Canada regardless of nationality.

The Non-SDS (General Student Visa) is designed for international students who do not qualify for the SDS program. While SDS offers expedited processing for eligible students from countries like India and Brazil, Non-SDS applicants must follow a more detailed and time-intensive application process, which may take longer to approve.

Although the Non-SDS program provides significant flexibility in terms of nationality and program choice, it comes with more rigorous documentation requirements and an extended timeline. Below, we examine the benefits and challenges of this visa program to help you make an informed decision.

Advantages of the Non-SDS Program:

  • No nationality restrictions – open to students from all countries.
  • Flexibility in selecting a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
  • No mandatory language proficiency scores for certain programs.

Challenges of the Non-SDS Program:

  • Application processing time is longer and less predictable.
  • Higher financial proof requirements.
  • More stringent documentation process.

Eligibility Criteria for the Non-SDS Program

  • A valid offer of admission from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
  • A provincial attestation letter (PAL) from the province or territory where you plan to study.
  • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS score of 6.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate programs).
  • Evidence of sufficient funds to support your education and living expenses in Canada (personal savings, parental support, or scholarships).

Application Process: How to Apply

To apply for a Non-SDS Canada Student Visa, you must submit a complete application package to the Canadian government. This package typically includes:

  • Completed application forms.
  • A valid passport or travel document.
  • Proof of identity.
  • A provincial attestation letter (PAL).
  • Proof of financial capability (see updated chart below).
  • A letter of acceptance from a DLI.
  • English language proficiency test results.
  • Medical examination results.
  • Police clearance certificates for countries where you have resided for over six months.

Proof of Funds Chart (Effective January 2024)

  • Single Applicant:
    Tuition Fees: $20,000.00
    Living Expenses: $20,636.00
    Transportation: $2,000.00
    Total Funds Required: $42,636.00

Important Updates for Applications Submitted on or After November 1, 2024

Note: Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility were announced on September 18, 2024.

Students submitting their study permit application on or after November 1, 2024, must meet new eligibility criteria to qualify for a PGWP.

  • University Graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral Degrees):
    • Language Requirement: Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all four areas.
    • Field of Study: All fields are eligible with no additional requirements.
  • Other University Programs:
    • Language Requirement: Minimum CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French in all four areas.
    • Field of Study: All fields are eligible with no additional requirements.
  • College or Non-University Programs:
    • Language Requirement: Minimum CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French in all four areas.
    • Field of Study: All fields are eligible with no additional requirements.

Field of Study Requirements

If your program specifies a field of study requirement, you must graduate from a program connected to in-demand occupations. Eligible fields include:

  • Agriculture and Agri-Food
  • Healthcare
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
  • Trades
  • Transport

Spousal Open Work Permit Eligibility

As of March 19, 2024, spouses or common-law partners of international students may apply for an Open Work Permit if the student is enrolled in the following programs:

  • Graduate Programs: Includes master’s and doctoral degrees.
  • Professional Degree Programs:
    • Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS, DMD)
    • Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor (LLB, JD, BCL)
    • Doctor of Medicine (MD)
    • Doctor of Optometry (OD)
    • Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
    • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
    • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc)
    • Bachelor of Education (BEd)
    • Bachelor of Engineering (BEng, BE, BASc)

Avoid Common Non-SDS Visa Refusal Reasons

To improve your chances of approval, avoid these common refusal reasons:

  • Incomplete application or missing documentation.
  • Insufficient financial proof to support yourself during your studies.
  • Health-related concerns that may pose a public health risk.
  • Submission of fraudulent documents.
  • Violation of terms from a previous visa (e.g., overstaying or illegal work).

What to Do If You Face a Refusal

If your application is refused, don’t lose hope. With over 10 years of experience, our team specializes in handling previously rejected cases. We’ve successfully secured approvals for applicants with multiple refusals, long educational gaps, or mature age.

Our tailored approach addresses the specific concerns raised by immigration officers in earlier refusals. By referencing relevant case law and precedents, we enhance your chances of success. At Waymark Immigration, we’ve achieved a 90% approval rate for complex cases. Let us guide you from start to finish and help you achieve your academic dreams. Start your process today.