Canada continues to be a popular destination for Pakistani students because of its internationally recognised education system, multicultural environment, and opportunities available to eligible international graduates.
However, Canada’s student visa process has changed significantly in recent years. If you are planning to study in Canada in 2026, it is important to understand the current requirements and application process.
At Synergy Solutions, we help students explore suitable Canadian universities and colleges, prepare their applications, organise documentation, and navigate the study permit process.
Important Update for Pakistani Students
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) was permanently closed by IRCC on 8 November 2024. Pakistani students can no longer apply through SDS. Applications are now processed through the regular study permit stream.
In This Guide
- Requirements for Pakistani Students
- Step-by-Step Application Process
- Canada Study Permit Fees
- Proof of Funds
- How Synergy Solutions Can Help
Requirements for Pakistani Students
To apply for a Canadian study permit, you will generally need:
- Valid Passport: A valid passport or travel document.
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA): An acceptance letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL): Most students need a PAL or TAL. However, from January 1, 2026, students entering degree-granting master’s or doctoral programs at eligible public institutions are exempt from the PAL/TAL requirement. Quebec has separate requirements.
- Proof of Funds: You must demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and transportation. For applications made from September 1, 2025 onward, a single applicant outside Quebec must show CAD 22,895 per year for living expenses, excluding tuition and transportation.
- Academic Documents: Matriculation, intermediate/FSc, bachelor’s degree, transcripts, and other relevant academic documents.
- English Language Test: IELTS or another accepted language test may be required depending on your institution and program.
- Statement of Purpose: A clear explanation of your study plans, academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing Canada.
- Medical Examination: If required, it must be completed through an IRCC-approved process/panel physician.
- Police Certificate: You may be asked to provide a police certificate depending on your circumstances.
- Biometrics: Applicants who are required to provide biometrics must complete them after receiving the biometric instruction letter.
- Online Application: Study permit applications are generally submitted online through IRCC.
Step-by-Step Canada Study Permit Process
Step 1: Choose Your Program and Institution
Start by selecting a suitable course and a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
Your choice should be based on your academic background, career plans, budget, location, and eligibility for relevant post-graduation opportunities.
Always check the official DLI list and program eligibility before applying.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
Prepare your academic documents, English language test results, passport, and other documents required by your selected institution.
Once your application is successful, you will receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA).
Step 3: Arrange Your PAL/TAL if Required
If your program requires a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter, you must obtain it before submitting your study permit application.
Students entering eligible degree-granting master’s or doctoral programs at public institutions from January 1, 2026 are generally exempt from the PAL/TAL requirement.
Step 4: Prepare Your Financial Documents
You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover:
- First-year tuition
- Living expenses
- Transportation to and from Canada
- Expenses for accompanying family members, if applicable
For one applicant outside Quebec, the current annual living-expense requirement is CAD 22,895, excluding tuition and transportation.
Step 5: Prepare Your Study Permit Documents
Organise your complete application file, including:
- Passport
- LOA
- PAL/TAL, if applicable
- Academic documents
- English language test
- Proof of funds
- SOP/Letter of Explanation
- Medical documents, if required
- Police certificate, if requested
- Other supporting documents
A complete and well-organised application can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Step 6: Submit Your Application Online
Submit your study permit application through the official IRCC system.
You will need to pay the applicable application and biometrics fees. IRCC states that study permit applications must generally be submitted online.
Step 7: Complete Biometrics
If biometrics are required, you will receive instructions after submitting your application.
The current biometrics fee is CAD 85 for an individual applicant.
Follow the instructions provided by IRCC for the appropriate biometrics collection location and appointment.
Step 8: Wait for the Decision
Processing times can vary depending on the country, application volume, and other factors.
There is no longer an SDS fast-track route for Pakistani students. You should therefore check the official IRCC processing-time tool for the latest estimate before applying.
Step 9: Receive Your Decision and Prepare for Canada
If your study permit application is approved, follow IRCC’s instructions regarding your passport and travel documents.
Once you have received the required documents, you can prepare for your journey to Canada and your studies.
Canada Study Permit Fees in 2026
| Item | Current Fee |
|---|---|
| Study Permit | CAD 150 |
| Biometrics | CAD 85 per applicant |
| Living Expense Requirement | CAD 22,895 per year for one applicant outside Quebec |
| Processing Time | Varies — check the current IRCC estimate |
The CAD 150 study permit fee and CAD 85 individual biometrics fee are the current IRCC fees.
Note: PKR equivalents fluctuate according to the current exchange rate, so students should check the latest exchange rate before calculating their total budget.
Why Choose Synergy Solutions?
Planning to study in Canada can feel complicated, especially with changing immigration policies and documentation requirements.
Synergy Solutions can assist you with:
- University and college selection
- Course selection
- Admission applications
- Document preparation
- PAL/TAL guidance
- Financial document guidance
- SOP/Letter of Explanation support
- Study permit application guidance
- Pre-departure guidance
Our goal is to make your journey from Pakistan to Canada simpler, clearer, and more organised.
Ready to Start Your Canada Journey?
Your Canadian education journey starts with the right course, the right institution, and a well-prepared application.
Contact Synergy Solutions today for guidance on studying in Canada.
📞 03495556888
📧 Admission@synergysltd.com
Synergy Solutions — Turn Your Study Abroad Dreams Into Reality.