SDS: Why was it discontinued by Canada? What is the impact on Indian students?

What is SDS? Why was SDS discontinued?

SDS or Student Direct Stream was the option to expedite Canadian student visa processing. It was a fast-tracked study permit application programme for students from specific countries, including India. Indian students who received an offer from any of the Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) in Canada could expect faster visa processing through this programme.

Why was SDS discontinued?

The Canadian government said that the country's goal is to strengthen program integrity, address student vulnerability, and give all students equal and fair access to the application process, as well as a positive academic experience. Though the fast-track visa processing option has been discontinued, students can continue to apply through the regular study permit stream.

If you are interested in studying in Canada, you can reach out to our dedicated IDP counsellors. Our experienced consultants continue to provide expert support to students throughout their application process to Canadian universities. 

Impact on Indian students

Increase in student visa processing times: SDS offered a fast-tracked processing of the Canadian Study Permit. Applications were processed in about 20 days. The regular study permit application processing can take up to 60 days.

Increased competition: As more and more students apply through the regular route, it will lead to an increase in competition for visa slots. In 2023, 60% of the Canadian study permit applications from India was through SDS. 

Impact on visa application success rate: SDS visa applications enjoyed a higher visa approval rate. It was as high as 70% (as reported by India Today).

Continue reading for more information about SDS.

Who could apply for SDS?

If you intend to apply through the SDS programme, your nationality is in your favour. India is one of the countries where the SDS option is available. Some other countries where SDS is available include:

• Brazil
• China
• Pakistan
• Vietnam
• Philippines and a few more.

Here are the other requirements to be met, for you to be eligible for SDS visa processing:

• You should have received an offer letter from one of the DLIs in Canada (A DLI or Designated Learning Institution is an institution that has government approval for hosting international students).
• You should not be in Canada at the time of application
• You must have paid the tuition fee for the first year of your study (Make sure you have the proof too – a receipt from the university, an official letter from the university, proof of transfer)
• You must have your academic transcripts with you
• You should have scored the required minimum score in a language test (More about it below)
• Get a medical examination done if your course duration is more than 6 months
• Get a police certificate
• Have a GIC (guaranteed Investment Certificate) of CAD 10,000 (Approximately 6.2 lakhs) A GIC offers a guaranteed rate of return for a fixed period of time. You will not be able to access this money until you arrive in Canada. Once you arrive, the amount will be released to you in instalments.
• Forms as required (The family visa form, application for Temporary Resident Visa form and Application for Study Permit Made Outside Canada form etc)
• Photocopy of the information and biographical data page of the applicant’s passport

Documents required for SDS visa application

1. The checklist that you fill out before beginning your application
2. Your passport
3. Photographs, in the required specifications
4. Letter of Acceptance from your university
5. English language test results
6. Most recent mark sheets
7. Proof of funds, including proof of getting a GIC
8. Proof of IT Returns filed, for you and your parents
9. Proof of scholarships or any other financial assistance you received
10. Reference letters (if you are receiving financial assistance from individuals or your employer)
11. Proof of employment, if you were employed before
12. Photocopy of the information and biographical data page of the applicant’s passport

Please refer the IRCC website for the latest information about visa requirements, before applying.

Changes to SDS language requirements

If you are applying for a Canadian study permit through SDS, after 10 August 2023, you need an overall IELTS Academic score of 6.0 or above. If you apply before 10 August 2023, you should score a 6.0 in each band of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.

Some other English language tests that are accepted are TOEFL, PTE and CAEL.

How to apply for SDS Canada?

• SDS applications should be submitted electronically
• To submit the application, you need an IRCC secure account.
• Once you register and login, you can use it to submit the application, pay visa fees and check the status of the application.
• Get electronic copies of your document before applying online.

What is the cost of an SDS application?

You should pay a visa processing fee of CAD 150 (approximately INR 9400/-) and a biometric collection fee of CAD 85 (approximately INR 5281/-).

What is a non-SDS visa?

The regular Canadian student visa is called the non-SDS visa. If you are looking for details about the Canadian Study Permit for international students, the eligibility and document requirements, the steps to apply and more, check out our article on Canadian student visa process.

What is the difference between an SDS and non-SDS visa application?

Should you apply through SDS?

You can consider the below factors to decide whether you want to apply via the SDS programme:

• Are you in a last-minute rush?
• Are you looking for a faster turnaround time for visa processing?
• Are you comfortable with online applications?
• Do you have all the necessary documents with you?

If your answer is yes, perhaps you should apply through the SDS programme.

FAQs on the SDS visa programme in Canada

What is the SDS rule for Canada?

SDS or Student Direct Scheme allows students in selected countries to fast-track their Canadian student visa processing.

Who are eligible for SDS?

Students in selected countries who meet the English language test score requirement and financial requirements are eligible for SDS, provided they have all the necessary documents ready.

How much is the Canada SDS fee?

The SDS visa processing charge is CAD 150. This is approximately around 9400 rupees. Since Indian students need to give biometrics too, you need to pay the biometric collection fee of CAD 85 (approximately INR 5300).

What is the difference between SDS and non-SDS in Canada?

The major difference between SDS and a non-SDS application is the time taken for processing the applications. While you can expect a response within 20 calendar days with an SDS application, it can take up to 6 months for a regular student visa or Canadian study permit application.