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Difference Between a Student Visa and a Study Permit: In Canada & Other Countries

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Student Visa and Study Permit

Difference Between a Student Visa and a Study Permit: A student visa allows you to enter a country. A student visa is issued by several countries around the world. For example, Germany, USA, Australia, New Zealand etc. The duration of a student visa depends on the country you are applying for. It may have certain restrictions or requirements, such as maintaining full-time student status and abiding by the country’s immigration regulations.

A study permit is typically issued by a local immigration authority or any other department.While a visa allows you to enter a country a permit allows you to stay. A study permit is typically required for international students to enrol in top universities in the world and must be obtained before entering the country. It may come with certain conditions and may need to be renewed periodically to continue studying.

Note– In certain countries, there is no difference between a student visa and study permit. A student visa acts as a study permit and a visa.

Also Read: Statement of Purpose – SOP for Canada Student Visa

Study Permit vs Student Visa 

The terms “study permit” and “student visa” are often used interchangeably, but there are some subtle differences between the two. The table below shows some of the significant differences between a student visa and study permit.

Study PermitStudent Visa
A study permit allows you to stay in a country for the purpose of education A student visa allows you to enter a country like the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom as a student.
A student permit is issued by a local immigration authority or a similar insituitionA student visa is issued by the embassy or consulate of the home country
The validity of a study permit is generally longer than that of a student visa holder. For example, you can get a study permit for 1-2 years The student visa validity is either equal to or less than the validity of study permit.

Also Read: Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS

How to Apply for Student Visa?

To apply for a student visa, you generally need to gather information about the specific requirements, rules, and processes for obtaining a student visa in the country where you plan to study. Each country has its own visa application procedures, so make sure to visit the official website of the country’s embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date information. 

Review the specific requirements for the student visa application. Generally, you will need to provide documentation such as the offer of acceptance, financial proof, passport, health and character documents, language proficiency, and visa application form. 

The visa processing time varies by country. It can take several weeks or even months, so apply well in advance of your intended start date. Keep track of your application status and communicate with the embassy or consulate if necessary.

When to Apply for a Study Permit?

It depends on the country. A study permit can be applied before getting a visa or after it. For example, in Germany you can apply for a student visa first, and then a study permit. On the other hand, in Australia, there is no difference between a student visa and a study permit. Generally, a visa is applied first.

Each country’s rules are different. Therefore, depending on the country you can apply for a study permit or visa first.

A country may or may not have a study permit. You need to check if the country has a study permit or not. If a student visa and study permit. exist, you will have to apply for both. The application process for a study permit varies. Typically, you will require the same documents as you will require for a visa application. If, any other additional documents are asked you need to provide the same.

Is the Study Permit and Student Visa the Same in Canada?

Yes! A student visa and study permit. are the the same thing in Canada. In the case of Canada, the study permit acts both as your permit, and visa.

This means if you get a study permit in Canada you are allowed to enter the country, and stay there. You do not have to apply for a separate student visa.

Similarly, UK is also an exception. You do not have to apply for a visa separately!

Your Study Permit and Entering Canada

Credit: @ImCanada

A study permit allows an international student to stay in a country. The documents consist of details such as the purpose of the study, limitations of work, and other details. A study permit is valid for 90 days after the student has completed the course of study, Those who want to study in Canada have to apply for a PGWP or Post Graduate Work Permit. 

Once, the study permit has been approved the student will receive an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa. This will permit the student to enter Canada. The final study permit for Canada will be issued by the border services officer. The number provided in the letter of introduction will be taken into account by the officer to approve the study permit. Students must information provided in the study permit is accurate. 

To avoid any last-minute delays and get guidance on how to proceed with the visa application process, speak to Leverage Edu’s experts today. Our visa experts will not only help you to understand the visa requirement but also prepare you for the Visa interview. All you have to do is book a 30-minute free counseling session at our toll-free number 1800-572-000 or by email at hello@leverageedu.com.

FAQs

What is a study permit?

A study permit refers to the official document issued by a country’s immigration authorities that allows foreign individuals to study and stay in that country Some countries issues separate study permts. In countries like Canda the study permit and the study visa is the same.

How is a student visa different from a study permit?

A student visa is a type of visa that allows individuals to enter a foreign country. Whereas a study permit is an official document issued by a country’s immigration authorities that allows foreign individuals to stay within that country.

How can an Indian student apply for a study permit in Canada?

To apply for a study permit in Canada, you generally need to choose a course or program of study at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. Ensure that the institution you choose is on the list of approved DLIs. Ensure you meet the requirements, such as being accepted by a DLI. Collect the necessary documents for your study permit application. The specific documents may vary based on your country of residence, but generally, you will need to submit your letter of acceptance, proof of financial support, passport, medical examination report, and police clearance certificate. 

What is student study visa?

A student visa is a legal document that is granted to international students to enter a country to study abroad. This immigration document comes with a validity period. The visa is usually applied by students to study in a college/university/educational institution abroad.

What is called a student visa in Canada?

A student visa in Canada is called a study permit. The study permit in Canada acts both as your work permit, and your visa for entry. Therefore, you do not have to get a separate visa. You can get a study permit after you meet all the requirements.

To avoid any last-minute delays and get guidance on how to proceed with the visa application process, speak to Leverage Edu’s experts today. Our visa experts will not only help you to understand the visa requirements but also prepare you for the Visa interview. All you have to do is book a 30-minute free counseling session at our toll-free number 1800-572-000 or by email at hello@leverageedu.com.

Relevant Reads:

Post-Study Work Visa in Ireland for Indian StudentsTier 2 Visa UK – A Comprehensive Overview
A Practical Guide to USA Work PermitsHow to Get PR in Ireland After Study?
How to Get a PR in France?Is it Easy to Get a PR in the UK?

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