How to Get Student Visa from Bangladesh to Canada [Step-by-Step Guide 2025]
Discover the complete process of getting a Canadian student visa from Bangladesh in 2025. Learn about requirements, documents, GIC, tuition fees, and more. A full step-by-step guide for international students.
Studying abroad is a dream for many Bangladeshi students, and Canada continues to be one of the top destinations due to its world-class education, multicultural society, post-study work opportunities, and clear path to permanent residency. However, the journey from Bangladesh to Canada starts with one crucial step — obtaining a Canadian student visa (Study Permit).
1. Why Study in Canada from Bangladesh?
Canada is among the top study-abroad destinations for Bangladeshi students for several reasons:
- Globally Ranked Universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and UBC.
- Affordable tuition fees compared to the US and UK.
- Up to 20 hours/week part-time work during studies.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) up to 3 years.
- Easy PR pathway through Express Entry and PNP.
2. Types of Student Visas in Canada
In reality, Canada issues a study permit, not a “visa.” However, you’ll also receive a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.
There are two main application routes:
- SDS (Student Direct Stream): Faster processing for eligible students.
- Regular Stream: Slower, but open to more applicants.
3. Key Requirements for Canadian Student Visa
To be eligible for a Canadian study permit from Bangladesh, you must meet the following:
- Valid Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- IELTS or TOEFL score (minimum IELTS band 6.0 overall for SDS).
- Proof of sufficient funds.
- Clean immigration and criminal record.
- Willingness to leave Canada after studies (unless applying for PR).
4. Step-by-Step Process to Get Student Visa from Bangladesh to Canada (2025)
Let’s break down the process into clear, actionable steps:
Step 1: Research and Choose a DLI
Start by selecting your program and applying to a DLI (Designated Learning Institution) in Canada. Popular universities for Bangladeshi students include:
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia (UBC)
- York University
- McMaster University
- Centennial College
Step 2: Apply and Receive Letter of Acceptance
Once accepted, you’ll receive an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA) — mandatory for the visa process.
Step 3: Gather All Required Documents
Refer to the checklist below.
Step 4: Open a GIC Account (for SDS)
You must deposit CAD $10,000 into a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) account from banks like:
- ScotiaBank
- ICICI Canada
- CIBC
- SBI Canada
Step 5: Pay Tuition Fees
Pay at least the first-year tuition fee directly to your Canadian institution and collect proof of payment.
Step 6: Take Medical Exam
Complete an IMM1017 medical examination from an approved panel physician in Bangladesh (IOM Dhaka or Mirpur).
Step 7: Apply Online via IRCC Portal
Create an account on the IRCC Website and submit all documents.
Step 8: Biometrics Submission
Schedule an appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre (Gulshan 1, Dhaka) to submit your biometrics.
Step 9: Wait for Decision
You will receive a decision within 20 days (SDS) or 1-3 months (Regular Stream).
Step 10: Receive Port of Entry (POE) Letter
Once approved, you'll get a POE Letter and your visa sticker (TRV).
5. Required Documents Checklist (2025)
Here’s what you need to prepare:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
- IELTS/TOEFL Score Sheet
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of tuition payment
- GIC Certificate ($10,000 CAD)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Medical report (IMM1017)
- Digital photograph (35x45mm)
- Biometrics receipt
- Visa application fee payment proof (CAD $150)
- Custodian Declaration (for minors)
6. Financial Requirements & GIC Process
To get your student visa approved, you must prove financial stability.
Minimum Financial Requirement:
- 1-year tuition fee: CAD $15,000–30,000 (depending on program)
- Living expense (GIC): CAD $10,000
- Travel and miscellaneous: CAD $2,000–$3,000
Total Minimum Estimate: CAD $25,000–35,000 (approx. BDT 23–32 lakh)
GIC Process for Bangladeshi Students:
- Open account with a GIC provider.
- Deposit CAD $10,000.
- Get GIC Certificate.
- Upon arrival in Canada, receive partial amount + monthly installments.
7. How to Apply via SDS (Student Direct Stream)
The SDS stream offers faster visa processing (20 days) for eligible students.
SDS Requirements:
- IELTS score of 6.0 in each band.
- Proof of full tuition payment.
- GIC of $10,000 CAD.
- Apply online from Bangladesh.
- Medical examination and biometrics.
SDS Advantages:
- Faster processing.
- Fewer documentation issues.
- Higher approval rate.
8. Canada Study Visa Processing Time for Bangladesh
- SDS Stream: 20 business days (after biometrics).
- Regular Stream: 1 to 3 months.
- Biometrics Appointment Wait Time: 7–15 days.
- Medical Report Validity: 12 months.
9. Canada Student Visa Rejection Reasons
Understanding why visas are rejected can help you avoid common pitfalls:
- Weak SOP (Statement of Purpose).
- Insufficient financial proof.
- Doubt about returning to home country.
- Incomplete or incorrect documents.
- Low IELTS scores.
- Applied to non-DLI institutions.
Pro Tip: A well-written SOP can greatly increase approval chances. Be clear about your academic goals, financial support, and future plans.
10. FAQs – Canada Student Visa from Bangladesh
Final Thoughts
Getting a Canadian student visa from Bangladesh in 2025 requires strategic planning, timely documentation, and clarity of purpose. Thousands of Bangladeshi students succeed every year—and with proper guidance, you can too. Make sure you choose a DLI, prepare a solid SOP, show strong financial backing, and apply through SDS if eligible.
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