SDS and Non-SDS Visa Requirements & Processing Time – 2023

When you explore details to study in Canada, you are likely to come across the terms SDS and non-SDS Visa.  As the terms play a crucial role in your Study in Canada process, you often get baffled between the two finding it difficult to make the right choice. 

To ease your dilemma, the blog will detail the meaning of SDS and non-SDS Visa along with the other imperative details that may be of your interest if you are Planning to Get a Canada Student Visa and study in Canada. 

What is SDS?

The Student Direct Stream (SDS), earlier known as the Student Partner Program, is a program run by the Canadian government. The program intends to assist students in fulfilling their desire to Study in Canada. Scholars who wish to study in Canada normally make their Canada Study Visa applications under the SDS class.

The SDS is a mechanism for processing Canada Student Visa applications rapidly and easily. Your SDS application can be submitted only via online mediums. Aspirants are required to satisfy certain requirements to qualify for the SDS category.

What is Non-SDS?

A further option that helps students who want to study in Canada in requesting a Canada Study Visa is the non-SDS category. The category is designed to aid students who are willing to study in Canada but cannot get a Canada student visa through the SDS stream. Those students who are incompetent with the SDS requirements can leverage the non-SDS category to Apply for a Canada Student Visa and study in Canada. The category requires more documentation than the SDS category.

SDS Visa Processing Time 2023

A compelling approach to expedite the processing of your Canada Study Visa is to submit an online application. A paper application is not required for the Student Direct Stream. As a result, prior to completing your application, you must prepare all of your documents ahead of time. The list consists of things to think about

• The instruction manual for your application form.
• You’ll have to get a scanner or a camera to make digital copies of your required documents.
• For payments, you’ll need a valid credit or debit card.
• Submit your biometric information. To do so, go to the website, complete out the information needed, and deposit the biometric fee.

Non-SDS Visa Processing Time 2023

Step 1: Sign in to CIC Canada’s official website with the help of your GCKey user-id and password. Perform the verification process and accept the terms and conditions.

Step 2: To get started, enter your personal reference code. If you don’t have the code, you can Check Your Eligibility by answering some questions and then applying. Next, save it and close the questionnaire.

Step 3: After you answer the questions, a pop-up will appear informing you of your eligibility. Proceed to the next step if you are eligible.

Step 4: Check your answers.

Step 5: Review all of your paperwork and checklists. If you’ve forgotten to include something, now is the time for doing so.

Step 6: Submit your application.

SDS Visa Application Process – List of Required Documents

• Academic records, along with a copy 12th standard report card.
• Candidates must have earned at least 55 percent in their undergraduate courses.
• Undergraduate degree with an advanced diploma. Candidates must have secured at least 50 percent or higher in order to pursue postgraduate courses.
• Statement of Purpose, a document that explains what you want to achieve.
• For UG, an IELTS score of at least 6.0 is required, and for PG, an IELTS score of at least 6.5 is required.
• Acceptance letter from an institution participating in the SDS program.
• To cover living expenses, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is issued.
• Photographs (in digital format).
• Demonstration of previous work experience.
• Tuition fees receipt.
• Proof of necessary medical testing.
• Visa application cost of $150 (INR 11k approx).

Non-SDS Visa Application Process – List of Required Documents

• Academic records, along with a copy of the 12th-grade report card.
• Applicants must have scored at least 55 percent in their undergraduate courses.
• Undergraduate degree with an advanced diploma. Applicants must have received 50 percent or higher in order to pursue postgraduate study.
• For undergraduates, an IELTS score of at least 6.0 is necessary, and for postgraduates, an IELTS score of at least 6.5 is required.
• Letters of recommendation from an institution that is a part of the non-SDS program.
• Past work experience and payslips of the previous three months.
• Proof of financial stability such as bank savings, student loans, and investments.
• Form 16 or documents from the candidate’s or sponsor’s income tax returns.
• Tuition fees receipt.
• Proof of necessary medical testing. 
• Visa application cost of $150 (INR 11k approx).

What are the Advantages of SDS over Non-SDS?

Now when you can make a distinction between SDS and Non-SDS Visa, let’s look at why you should request a Canada Student Visa under the SDS category rather than the non-SDS category.

Documentation is Scarce: Candidates in the SDS category don’t have to submit as much documentation to prove their financial ability. In the non-SDS option, there is more paperwork that may hurdle your Way to Study in Canada.

Processing Time is Short: In contrast to non-SDS approaches, the SDS procedure is quick and simple. The process takes roughly 45 days to finish.

A Higher Rate of Success: The SDS program has a higher success rate than the non-SDS program. The program is more suitable for the students to gain a Canada student visa provided they satisfy the SDS program’s prerequisites. The program is a great choice for students who want to obtain a Canada Student Visa Rapidly and effortlessly and realize their dream of Study in Canada with ease. 

SDS Colleges in Canada List

Endnote

It is not easy to access a Student Visa in Canada. To be successful, it will take a significant amount of time, work, and supervision. Are You Planning to Study in Canada? Contact a team dedicated to making your Canada student visa application process as simple as possible and providing you with the finest possible support in Getting a Student Visa in Canada. Our knowledgeable Canada Student Visa Experts are available to assist you happily.