Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for Nepali students, and for good reason — the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies, making it one of the strongest return-on-investment pathways available.
But Canada is no longer easy. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) fast-track visa was discontinued in November 2024. All Nepali students now apply through the regular study permit stream, which has longer processing times and stricter financial scrutiny. This guide tells you exactly what to do and in what order.
What Has Changed in 2026
The SDS is gone. Processing times through the regular stream range from 8 to 20 weeks and can be unpredictable. Visa refusal rates for Nepali applicants have increased. The financial requirements were updated significantly in 2024 and remain strict. Starting early is no longer just good advice — it is essential.
Step 1: Receive Your Letter of Acceptance from a DLI
You need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Every legitimate Canadian university and college is a DLI. You can verify any institution on the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) government website. Without an LOA from a DLI, you cannot apply.
Step 2: Gather Your Financial Documents
This is the step where most applications either succeed or fail. As of 2026, you must demonstrate that you have:
- Your first year’s full tuition fees
- CAD 20,635 for living expenses
- Funds to cover your return transportation
The cleanest way to meet the living expense requirement is a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 20,635 from a Canadian bank such as CIBC or Scotiabank. This is strongly recommended because it is the format immigration officers expect and trust. Your bank statements should show 3–6 months of consistent account history. Sudden large deposits will be questioned.
Step 3: Obtain Your English Language Score
IELTS Academic is the most widely accepted test. Most Canadian universities require a minimum overall score of 6.0 to 6.5. Some competitive programs require 7.0. PTE Academic is also accepted at many institutions.
Step 4: Complete Your Immigration Medical Examination (IME) if Required
Many Nepali applicants are required to complete an immigration medical exam conducted by a government-approved panel physician before or during their application. Check the IRCC website or consult with us to determine whether this applies to your specific situation.
Step 5: Submit Your Application Through the IRCC Portal
Apply online through the IRCC portal. Upload all supporting documents including your LOA, financial evidence, English test scores, academic transcripts, passport, and photographs. Pay the study permit application fee of CAD 150 and the biometrics fee of CAD 85.
Step 6: Submit Biometrics at VFS Global, Kathmandu
After submitting your online application, you will receive instructions to submit biometrics. The VFS Global office in Kathmandu handles this for Canada. Book your appointment promptly — do not wait. This step is mandatory and cannot be skipped.
Step 7: Respond to Any Additional Requests
If the processing officer requests additional information or documents, respond thoroughly and promptly. Incomplete or delayed responses are one of the most common causes of processing delays and refusals.
Your Full Timeline at a Glance
| Milestone | When to Do It |
|---|---|
| Shortlist universities | 12 months before intake |
| Take IELTS or PTE | 10 months before intake |
| Submit university applications | 8–10 months before intake |
| Receive Letter of Acceptance | 6–7 months before intake |
| Open GIC, prepare financial documents | 5–6 months before intake |
| Submit study permit application | 4–5 months before intake |
| Complete biometrics appointment | Within 30 days of submitting application |
| Receive study permit | 1–3 months before intake |
The Most Common Mistakes Nepali Students Make
Waiting until after receiving the LOA to start preparing financial documents. Underestimating processing times and applying too late. Assuming Canada is easier than other countries and not preparing thoroughly. Not opening a GIC and instead relying only on bank statements.
Canada in 2026 requires the same level of preparation as any other destination. The students who get their permits on time are the ones who started 12 months before their intended intake.
If you want help reviewing your financial documents or building your Canada application from scratch, book a free counseling session with us.