Canada student visa from India 2026: fees, funds & the PAL
What a Canadian study permit costs, how much money you must show, why you need a Provincial Attestation Letter, and what you can do after graduating.
A Canadian study permit costs CAD 150, plus CAD 85 for biometrics. For applications from 1 September 2026 you must show CAD 23,448 for living costs, plus your first-year tuition and travel. Most students also need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) from their province. Graduates of master's programmes can usually get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years.
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How much does a Canadian student visa cost?
| Fee | Amount (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Study permit | 150 | Per person, including extensions |
| Biometrics | 85 | Per person; CAD 170 maximum for a family applying together |
| Medical exam and police certificate | Varies | Only if IRCC asks for them |
Source: IRCC fee list, checked 23 October 2026. Biometrics are usually valid for 10 years, so you may not need to give them again.
How much money must I show?
For study permit applications from 1 September 2026, IRCC asks a single student to show CAD 23,448 for living costs, on top of first-year tuition and travel. Applications made before that date used CAD 22,895.
- Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC): the most common way Indian students show living-cost funds.
- Tuition receipt: paying part or all of your first-year tuition reduces doubt about your funds.
- Education loan: a sanction letter from a bank or NBFC. See our education loan guide.
- Bank statements: usually 6 months, showing a steady balance.
See the full budget in our MS in Canada cost guide.
What is the PAL, and do I need one?
Most study permit applicants need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) from the province where they will study. Your college or university usually helps you get it after you accept your offer and pay a deposit. Provinces receive limited numbers, so apply early. Quebec uses its own CAQ instead. Some applicants are exempt; check IRCC's current list or ask your institution.
Which documents do I need?
- Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI).
- PAL/TAL, unless you're exempt.
- Valid passport and photos.
- Proof of funds, as above.
- A letter of explanation: why this course, why Canada, and your plans after.
- A medical exam, police certificate or biometrics if IRCC asks.
Compare with other countries in our visa documents checklist. Need to skip IELTS? See Canada without IELTS.
How long does a Canadian study permit take from India?
IRCC publishes current study permit processing times for applications from India in its online processing-time tool, and the figure changes as volumes change, so check it on the day you plan. The time counts from when IRCC receives a complete application to a decision, and doesn't include the time to give biometrics.
- Apply as soon as you have your letter of acceptance and PAL, especially for September intakes, when volumes peak.
- Give your biometrics quickly after you get the instruction letter; the clock effectively waits for them.
- Submit a complete application: missing funds proof or an unclear letter of explanation are common causes of delay and refusal.
- Don't book flights until you have your approval.
Can I work while studying and after graduating?
- During studies: students can usually work up to 24 hours a week off campus during academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks.
- After a master's: the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can last up to 3 years, even for programmes shorter than 2 years.
- After a college programme: the PGWP usually matches the programme length, up to 3 years, if the field of study is eligible.
- Language test for the PGWP: you must show English or French results when you apply. See our post-study work comparison.
Official sources
Figures on this page were checked on 23 Oct 2026. Rules and fees change, so always confirm the current numbers on the official site before you pay or apply.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Canada student visa fee from India?
CAD 150 for the study permit and CAD 85 for biometrics, according to IRCC's fee list.
How much bank balance is required for a Canada student visa?
For applications from 1 September 2026, CAD 23,448 for living costs for one person, plus first-year tuition and travel. Most Indian students show this through a GIC, a tuition receipt and an education loan.
Do I need a PAL for a Canadian study permit?
Most applicants do. Your institution usually helps you get the Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter after you accept your offer. Some applicants are exempt; check IRCC's current list.
How long does a Canada student visa take from India?
It varies. IRCC publishes current processing times for study permits from India in its online tool, which changes with demand. Apply as soon as you have your letter of acceptance and PAL, and give biometrics promptly.
How many hours can I work in Canada as a student?
Usually up to 24 hours a week off campus during academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks.
How long is the PGWP after a master's in Canada?
Up to 3 years, even if the master's is shorter than 2 years, provided you meet the PGWP conditions, including the language test.
Can Abbacy help with my Canada study permit?
Yes. We check your documents, plan your funds and letter of explanation, and run a mock interview, free of charge.
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