U.S. and Canada Student Visa and Immigration Basics: 2023
Before beginning study in the U.S. or Canada, you must complete a few immigration-related tasks as an international student. Each host country has its own immigration process, and the steps you must follow might also differ depending on your home country’s requirements.
If you’re deciding on attending a school at one of these two options, here’s what you need to know about getting a visa.
Getting an F-1 visa for study in the U.S.
After accepting enrollment into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program-approved (SEVP) school, the program will issue you a Form I-20. Before you can submit a U.S. F-1 visa application to the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs, you must register in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Student and Exchange Visitor Information System Registration
SEVIS is an information database of all nonimmigrant students entering the U.S. for school. After submitting your information, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee for F-1 students which is currently US$350.
Remember, enrollment into a U.S. school isn’t enough to study in the U.S. You must separately go through the U.S. F-1 visa immigration process, too.
U.S. student visa application
Once the initial steps above are complete, you can complete an online visa application (DS-160). Having certain documents ready while you’re filling out the DS-160 can make the process go smoothly.
You’ll need your SEVIS ID, school and program information, passport, travel itinerary if you’ve already booked transportation, and the dates of your last five U.S. visits. You might also need your resume including your education and employment history.
Submit your completed online application, upload a photo, and pay the US$160 visa application processing fee. This fee is non-refundable. Keep a copy of your online application confirmation and payment receipt.
Visa interview
Schedule a visa interview as soon as you’ve submitted your online visa application. Wait times differ based on the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Some areas have longer wait times, so don’t delay.
During the interview, a consular officer will ask you questions about why you’re interested in studying in the U.S., and why you applied for your academic program. They might also ask questions about your financial situation, and how you plan on paying for your school fees and living abroad.
At the interview, bring your:
- Passport – valid for at least six months
- Photo for your F-1 visa
- Printed confirmation of your DS-160
- Printed receipts for your visa application fee and SEVIS fee
- Printed Form I-20 from your school
- Financial statements, paychecks, and proof of other sources of income, like a student loan
At your interview, you must also prove that you have plans to return to your home country after graduating. Having documents that prove your ties to your home country is also useful. For example, bring a business license or certificate, a marriage certificate for a spouse or birth certificate for children who are staying behind, or a real estate deed.
Depending on your application, it can take up to 60 days after the date of your interview for the application status.
Canadian immigration for international students
To study in Canada as an international student, you first need to be accepted into a Canadian school and enroll in an academic program. The next step is creating a Canadian immigration online account by setting up a username and password, providing your basic information, and answering a few security questions.
Once you’re logged in, you’ll see your account dashboard. You can start a new study permit application.
Canadian study permit requirements
The Government of Canada offers an online form to help you determine your eligibility. Generally, Canadian study permit eligibility requirements includes:
- Being accepted to a designated learning institution (DLI)
- Having sufficient funds to pay for school, living expenses, and transportation
- Having no criminal record
- Having a police certificate from your home country, if required
- Having good health and undergoing a medical exam, if needed
- Proving your intention to return to your home country after your permit expires
Depending on your unique situation, you might have to go through a medical exam, language testing, or obtain a police certificate from your home country. These costs are paid separately to the service provider, directly.
Submitting forms and documents for study permit in Canada
You’ll need to submit a total of three immigration forms with your online application. An Application for Study Permit Made Outside of Canada (IMM1294), Family Information (IMM5645), and an Application for a Temporary Resident Visa Made Outside Canada (IM5257).
You can save your application progress as many times as necessary. However, you only have 60 days to submit your application, otherwise, it is deleted from your account.
Upload the requested documents, like your passport page, proof of financial support, digital photo, and letter of acceptance, with your study permit application. When you’re ready to submit it, provide a digital signature and pay the application fee (CAD$150) and biometrics fee (CAD$85).
Schedule your biometric appointment
After submitting your study permit application documents and paying the fees, you’ll receive a biometric instruction letter. To avoid delays, book your biometric appointment as soon as possible.
At this appointment, you’ll have your photos and fingerprints taken. Your permit application will be reviewed along with your required supporting documents. If approved, you’ll receive a port of entry letter of introduction. Bring this letter with you upon arriving in Canada at your port of entry.
If your circumstance requires it, you’ll also receive an electronic travel authorization or temporary visitor visa to enter the country.
Stay informed of immigration procedures to study in Canada or the U.S.
Preparing to study in the U.S. or Canada is an exciting step toward your academic future. Regardless of which country you study in, you’ll face many immigration steps. The most important tip is not to wait until the last minute to submit your visa application.
If you have questions along the way or are encountering unexpected delays, always reach out to the designated official at your school. Keep them updated about your visa status; they can assist with resources and guidance for your personal situation.
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