Maple News reports that Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS), a fast-tracked study permit application pathway, has undergone updates in 2024. These changes, part of broader efforts by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to increase scrutiny and maintain the quality of the international student program, are expected to impact thousands of students applying this year.
The SDS is designed for legal residents of 14 selected countries, including India, China, the Philippines, Brazil, and Pakistan. Eligible applicants benefit from expedited study permit processing—typically within 20 calendar days—compared to standard times from outside Canada, which can take up to 10 weeks.
To begin, students must receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). DLIs are the only institutions authorized to enroll international students and are listed on IRCC’s official platform. Once accepted, students should begin collecting all required documentation.
A key document for SDS applicants in 2024 is the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), now mandatory for most post-secondary study permit applications. The PAL confirms that institutions are not exceeding provincial enrollment targets. Notably, master’s and doctoral students, as well as primary and secondary school applicants, are exempt from this requirement. Each province has its own PAL issuance process.
In addition to the PAL and LOA, applicants must provide proof of payment for first-year tuition, evidence of a medical exam (if required), police clearance (when necessary), academic transcripts, language test results, and crucially, proof of holding a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD $20,635. The GIC assures financial readiness, and funds will be gradually released to students after their arrival in Canada.
Once all documents are compiled, applicants may submit their SDS application online to IRCC. Upon approval, individuals receive a ‘letter of introduction’ and temporary travel documentation, allowing them to enter Canada. The final study permit is issued upon arrival, officially granting the student the right to study in the country.
Canada remains a top destination for international students, offering globally respected education and post-graduation opportunities. The SDS serves to streamline the entry for qualified candidates while ensuring regulatory oversight and quality standards. With these 2024 updates, Maple News advises aspiring students to plan carefully and prepare documentation early in the application season.
Stay tuned to Maple News for the latest developments in study visa policies and immigration pathways.