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Difference Between a Student Visa and a Study Permit: A student visa is a type of visa that allows individuals to study abroad. It grants permission to non-citizens to enter and reside in the host country to pursue an educational program. The student visa typically has a specific duration linked to the length of the study program. 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 an official document issued by a country’s immigration authorities that allows foreign individuals to study within that country. It grants permission for non-citizens to pursue an educational program and reside in the country for the specified duration of their studies. A study permit is typically required for international students to enroll 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.
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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. Students often get confused between a study permit and a student visa.
The table below shows some of the significant differences between a study permit and a student visa.
| Study Permit | Student Visa |
| A study permit refers to the official document issued by a country’s immigration authorities that allows foreign individuals to study within that country. It is primarily associated with countries like Canada. | A student visa is a specific type of visa that allows individuals to study in a foreign country. It is associated with countries like the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. |
| It grants permission for non-citizens to pursue an educational program and reside in the country for the specified duration of their studies. | A student visa grants permission for non-citizens to enter and reside in the host country for the purpose of pursuing an educational program. |
| It outlines the conditions, restrictions, and requirements that students must adhere to during their stay. | It is usually obtained from the embassy or consulate of the country of study and may require an interview and additional documentation. |
| A study permit is typically obtained before entering the country and may need to be renewed periodically to continue studying. | The student visa is often linked to the educational institution and has a specific duration aligned with the length of the study program. It may have certain restrictions or requirements, such as maintaining full-time student status and abiding by the country’s immigration regulations. |
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.
How to Apply for Study Permit
To apply for a study permit, which is a document that allows international students to study 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, having sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses, and being in good health. Collect the necessary documents for your study permit application. The specific documents may vary based on your country of residence and individual circumstances, but generally, you will need to submit your letter of acceptance, proof of financial support, passport, medical examination report, and police clearance certificate.
The processing time for study permit applications can vary. Check the estimated processing times on the IRCC website and monitor your application status online. It is crucial to carefully review the official instructions provided by the Government of Canada and follow them closely during the application process.
Your Study Permit and Entering Canada
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 [email protected].
FAQs
A study permit refers to the official document issued by a country’s immigration authorities that allows foreign individuals to study within that country. It is primarily associated with countries like Canada. It grants permission for non-citizens to pursue an educational program and reside in the country for the specified duration of their studies.
A student visa is a type of visa that allows individuals to study in a foreign country. It grants permission to non-citizens to enter and reside in the host country for the purpose of pursuing an educational program. Whereas a study permit is an official document issued by a country’s immigration authorities that allows foreign individuals to study within that country.
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.
A student visa is a legal document that is granted to international students 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.
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 [email protected].
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