Nepal and Canada share a long history of friendly bilateral relations since 1965. For Nepalese students, Canada stands out as an appealing study destination due to several compelling reasons:

High-Quality Education System:
Canada boasts some of the world’s top-ranked universities, ensuring a high-quality education.

International Exposure:
Students have the opportunity to gain international exposure and perspectives through diverse cultural experiences.

Employment and Permanent Residency:
Graduates have the potential for employment and even permanent residency in Canada after completing their studies.

Multicultural Society:
Canada’s multicultural society, including large Nepali diaspora communities, creates a welcoming environment for students.

Safe and Peaceful Environment:
The country offers a safe and peaceful environment conducive to focused studying.

The number of Nepalese students choosing Canada for their studies has witnessed significant growth. To embark on this educational journey, Nepalese students must obtain a study permit from the Canadian government. This permit allows them to enroll in academic programs at designated Canadian learning institutions.

toronto skyline from park
Toronto skyline from park

Eligibility Criteria:

Before initiating the study permit application, it is imperative to meet the eligibility criteria established by the Canadian government:

Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI):
Secure an unconditional acceptance letter from a DLI in Canada, approved for hosting international students.

Valid Passport:
Possess a valid passport issued by the Government of Nepal, ensuring at least 6 months’ validity beyond the planned arrival date in Canada.

Proof of Financial Support:
Demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs for the first year of studies in Canada.

Good Health:
Undergo a medical examination by a panel physician approved by the Canadian government, ensuring compliance with health standards.

No Criminal Record:
Provide a police certificate from Nepal, confirming a clean record and admissibility to Canada.

Genuine Student:
Convince the Canadian visa officer of being a genuine student with no immigration intent, ensuring plans to exit Canada post-program completion.


Documents Required:

In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, meticulous preparation of the following documentation is essential:

Complete Application Form:
Accurately fill out all sections of the study permit application form.

Valid Passport:
Submit the original, valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity.

Acceptance Letter:
Include the original unconditional acceptance letter from the chosen DLI.

Proof of Financial Support:
Provide detailed proof of financial capability, such as bank statements, loan approval letters, or letters of financial support.

Educational Documents:
Submit certified copies of all educational qualifications, including transcripts, marksheets, degree certificates, and provisional certificates.

Statement of Purpose (SOP):
Prepare a well-articulated SOP outlining motivations, program alignment with goals, contributions to personal and professional growth, and societal impact.

Letters of Recommendation:
Include at least two recommendation letters highlighting skills, achievements, character, and potential for success.

Photographs:
Submit passport-size photographs adhering to Canadian government specifications.


Visa Application Process:

With all documents prepared, the visa application process unfolds in several steps:

Research and Shortlist Schools:
Thoroughly research Canadian universities and colleges, shortlisting institutions based on various factors.

Register for IELTS:
Take the IELTS English language proficiency test, achieving the required minimum scores specified by the chosen program.

Apply to Institutions:
Submit applications to shortlisted schools, providing necessary academic documents and test scores.

Undergo Medical Examination:
Book a medical examination with an approved panel physician, obtaining required medical test results and certificates.

Submit Visa Application:
Complete the study permit application online through the Canadian government website, paying application fees.

Biometrics:
Visit the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Kathmandu to provide fingerprints and digital photographs for biometric collection.

Wait for Passport Request:
Upon approval, receive a passport submission letter in the application portal, submitting the original passport to the VAC for stamping.

Travel to Canada:

Book a flight to Canada and, at the port of entry, present all documents to immigration authorities for study permit issuance.

By comprehending the requirements and meticulously preparing the application, Nepalese students can navigate the process successfully, realizing their aspirations for Canadian education.