Canada Student Visa Checklist 2025–26 (SDS Route for Indian Students)

Applying for a Canadian student visa in 2025–26? Whether you’re heading to a public university or a private college, getting your document checklist right is the first and most crucial step toward visa approval.

This guide by Dream College Abroad gives you a complete, updated SDS (Student Direct Stream) checklist designed specifically for Indian students — including mandatory and supporting documents that can strengthen your visa file and help you avoid rejection.

📞 For personalized visa assistance: Call +91-8287003240 or email info@dreamcollegeabroad.com.

📘 Section 1: Admission Proof

Before applying for a study permit, make sure you have the following:

✅ Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
✅ DLI number mentioned clearly on LOA
✅ Course details, tuition fees, and program duration
✅ Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) – mandatory for post-Jan 2024 intakes
✅ CAQ (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec) – required only if you’re studying in Quebec

Pro Tip: Always double-check your DLI status on the official IRCC list.

💰 Section 2: Financial Documents (Proof of Funds)

Your financial proof is one of the most important visa approval factors.

For SDS Route (Mandatory)

✅ Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of at least CAD 20,635 (updated for 2025–26)
✅ Tuition fee receipt for the first year (full or partial as per LOA)
✅ Bank statement showing tuition and GIC payments
✅ Education loan proof (if applicable) with sanction letter and collateral details
✅ Sponsor’s financial documents – ITRs, salary slips, or business proof (for non-SDS applicants)

Recommended (to strengthen your file)

🟢 Family income proof (past 2 years’ ITR, Form 16, business registration)
🟢 Property valuation or fixed deposits (optional asset evidence)

Why this matters: Visa officers want to ensure you can fund your studies and living expenses in Canada without financial stress.

🧾 Section 3: Identity & Personal Documents

✅ Valid Passport (bio page, stamped pages, any old passports)
✅ Two passport-size photos (as per IRCC specs)
✅ National ID (if applicable)
✅ Birth certificate (recommended for age and family proof)

🎓 Section 4: Academic Documents

✅ Class 10 & 12 mark sheets
✅ Bachelor’s transcripts or consolidated mark sheet
✅ Degree certificate or provisional degree
✅ English proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo)
✅ Statement of Purpose (SOP) / Letter of Explanation

Tip: A strong SOP clearly explains why Canada, why this course, and how it supports your career goals.

🧑‍💼 Section 5: Work & Internship Documents (if applicable)

✅ Internship certificates
✅ Work experience letters or salary slips
✅ Updated CV / resume

Even short internships add credibility by showing practical exposure.

🩺 Section 6: Health, Security & Legal Documents

✅ Upfront Medical Exam (from IRCC-approved panel physician)
✅ Police Clearance Certificate (if requested)
✅ Biometrics receipt (fingerprints + photo)

📨 Section 7: Visa Application Forms & Fees

✅ IMM 1294 – Application for Study Permit
✅ IMM 5645 – Family Information Form
✅ Digital photo upload
✅ Visa fee receipt – CAD 150
✅ Biometric fee receipt – CAD 85
✅ VFS consent form (for paper applications)
✅ Optional: Cover letter summarizing submission checklist

✈️ Section 8: Supporting & Optional Documents

✅ SOP (Statement of Purpose) – clearly expressing intent, program fit, and return plan
✅ Proof of relationship – if funds come from parents or sponsor
✅ Property papers (as ties to home country)
✅ Scholarships, awards, or achievements

🔒 Visa Success Essentials – How to Maximize Approval Chances

✔️ Submit clear, consistent, and certified documents
✔️ Ensure funds are genuine, traceable, and sufficient for at least one academic year
✔️ Complete your medical and biometrics early
✔️ Keep your SOP strong — highlight academic relevance and intent to return
✔️ Apply at least 3 months before your program start date

🌟 Final Thoughts

The Canada Study Visa (SDS Route) is one of the most streamlined ways for Indian students to enter Canada — but success depends on a complete, credible, and well-organized application. Following this checklist helps you stay ahead of IRCC requirements and ensures your file meets both mandatory and supporting standards.

If you’re unsure about fund documentation, SOP drafting, or university guidance — our expert advisors at Dream College Abroad are here to help.

📞 Call: +91-8287003240
📧 Email: info@dreamcollegeabroad.com

Let’s turn your study-in-Canada dream into reality with expert support, complete documentation, and 100% transparency.