Student Visa Cost Canada: Guide for International Students 2025

Canada has become a top destination for international students, known for its quality education, safe environment, and diverse culture. Before applying for study permit, it’s essential to understand the student visa cost Canada in 2025, as financial readiness is a key requirement for approval. The process involves application fees, biometrics, medical exams, and proof of funds to meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) standards. Students also need to show a minimum bank balance for a Canadian student visa to cover tuition and living expenses. This guide explains all costs involved, helping students plan effectively for their academic journey in Canada.

Why Canada is a Top Choice for International Students?

Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education, attracting thousands of students each year to cities like Surrey, Vancouver, and Toronto. International students are drawn to Canada not only for the academic excellence of its universities and colleges but also for the opportunities it provides after graduation. The country is widely recognized for offering affordable education compared to countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom, making it a practical choice for students managing tight budgets.

Key reasons why students prefer Canada include:

• Affordable education and living costs compared to other major study destinations.

• Post-graduation work permit (PGWP) opportunities that allow students to gain Canadian work experience.

• A multicultural environment that promotes inclusivity and global exposure.

• High quality of life and safety standards, especially in student-friendly cities like Surrey, BC.

While Canada offers many benefits, students must still prepare financially. Understanding the student visa cost in Canada is crucial before beginning the application process.

Student Visa Cost Canada – 2025 Update

The Canadian study permit fee has remained relatively consistent over the years, but additional charges apply during the process. Below is a breakdown of the student visa cost Canada in 2025.

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (CAD)
Study Permit Application Fee	$150
Biometrics Fee	$85
Medical Exam	$100 – $300
Police Clearance Certificate	$20 – $100
Document Translation/Certification	$50 – $200

The table outlines how much does it cost to get a student visa​ when applying for a study permit in 2025. The application fee is $150 CAD, which is required for every applicant. Additionally, most students are required to pay a biometric fee of $85 CAD for fingerprinting and photo identification. A medical exam, costing between $100 and $300 CAD, may also be necessary depending on health requirements. Some applicants will need to obtain a police clearance certificate, usually ranging from $20 to $100 CAD, to verify their background. Finally, certain documents may need translation or certification, adding an extra $50 to $200 CAD to overall costs.

When these fees are combined, the total typically falls between $400 and $850 CAD, excluding tuition fees and proof of financial support. Planning for these expenses in advance ensures students are well-prepared for the application process and avoids unnecessary delays.

Minimum Bank Balance for Canada Student Visa

To study in Canada, proof of financial stability is required. The minimum bank balance for a Canadian student visa ensures that international students can cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. As per IRCC guidelines for 2025:

• Students outside Quebec must show at least $10,000 CAD per year, in addition to tuition fees.

• If bringing a family member, add $4,000 for the first dependent and $3,000 for each additional dependent.

For students planning to study in Surrey, BC, the cost of living may be higher compared to smaller cities. Demonstrating a balance above the minimum requirement increases approval chances.

Other Costs to Consider Beyond Visa Fees

The additional charges are not part of the visa fee but are essential to securing approval and preparing for a smooth transition.

• Tuition Fees: $15,000 – $35,000 CAD annually, depending on program and institution.

• Health Insurance: Around $600 – $1,000 CAD per year.

• Accommodation: $700 – $1,500 CAD per month in Surrey, BC.

• Travel Expenses: Flight tickets and settlement costs.

• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): Some applicants may need to deposit $10,000 CAD.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Student Visa in Canada

Applying for a study permit involves several important stages, each requiring proper documentation and timely action. Below are the steps to help students navigate the process smoothly.

Receive a Letter of Acceptance

The first step is obtaining an official Letter of Acceptance from a recognized Canadian college or university. This document confirms your admission and is mandatory for your study permit application. It must include details such as the institution’s name, your program of study, tuition fees, and the expected duration of your course. Without this letter, your application cannot be submitted for processing.

Prepare Financial Documents

Applicants must demonstrate their ability to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and daily expenses while studying in Canada. Financial proof often includes recent bank statements, tuition payment receipts, or a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). These documents show that you can sustain yourself throughout your program. Strong financial documentation improves the chances of approval and ensures that authorities that you can meet living and educational costs without financial strain.

Apply Online or Paper-Based

Once you have the necessary documents, you can submit your application either online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal or in paper form. The standard fee for submitting a study permit application is $150 CAD, payable at the time of submission. Applying online is generally faster and allows you to track the progress of your application more easily compared to paper-based submissions.

Submit Biometrics

After your application is submitted, you may be required to provide biometrics, which include fingerprints and a digital photograph. The biometric fee is $85 CAD, and applicants usually visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to complete the process. Biometrics are valid for ten years and may be reused for future applications. Providing them is essential for identity verification and ensuring security checks are conducted effectively.

Medical Examination & Police Certificate

Depending on your country of residence and personal history, you may need to undergo a medical exam by an approved panel physician. The cost typically ranges between $100 and $300 CAD. Additionally, a police clearance certificate may be required to verify your background and ensure admissibility to Canada. These documents help confirm that you are healthy and pose no security risks.

Wait for Visa Processing

Once all documents are submitted, your application enters the review stage. Processing times generally range between 8 to 12 weeks, though this can vary based on the volume of applications and individual cases. During this period, immigration officers may request additional documents or clarifications. Staying proactive by checking your application status online ensures you respond promptly, which can prevent unnecessary delays in the approval process.

Tips to Manage Student Visa Costs

Planning is essential when managing expenses related to studying in Canada. One of the best ways to prepare for your arrival financially is by opening a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) account with a Canadian bank. This demonstrates financial stability and ensures funds are readily available for living expenses. Students should also explore scholarships and bursaries offered by colleges and universities, particularly in Surrey, BC, as these can significantly reduce the overall cost of education.

It is equally important to budget for hidden costs such as medical exams, insurance premiums, and document translation fees, which are often overlooked but can add up quickly. Maintaining a balance higher than the minimum bank balance for Canada student visa also strengthens your application, reassuring immigration officers of your financial readiness. Finally, keeping track of currency exchange rates and transferring money wisely can help you save on conversion charges. By combining these strategies, international students can better manage their finances and focus on achieving academic success in Canada.

Final Words

Studying in Canada offers countless opportunities, but success begins with financial planning. Understanding the student visa cost Canada in 2025 is essential, as it includes application fees, biometrics, medical exams, and other required expenses. Equally important is knowing the minimum bank balance for Canada student visa, which ensures you can cover tuition, accommodation, and living costs during your stay. 

Many students also ask, how much does it cost to get a student visa?—the answer depends on both official fees and additional personal expenses such as insurance and document preparation. By preparing early, maintaining proper funds, and managing hidden costs wisely, international students can meet IRCC requirements with confidence. Careful financial readiness allows you to focus on academics while building a strong foundation for your future in Canada.

FAQs

1. Is a 3 month bank statement enough for a Canada visa? Yes, in most cases IRCC requires a minimum of 3 to 6 months of bank statements to verify proof of funds. Providing more than the minimum strengthens your application.

2. What is the minimum bank balance for student visa? The minimum bank balance for Canada student visa is $10,000 CAD per year, plus tuition fees. If bringing dependents, additional funds are required.

3. How much money do I need for a Canada student visa? The overall student visa cost Canada includes application fees ($150 CAD), biometrics ($85 CAD), and other charges. Along with that, proof of funds of at least $10,000 CAD per year plus tuition is mandatory.