Students from Pakistan now have the options of applying through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and can obtain their study permit in approximately 20 days.

The SDS was introduced in 2018 and students from India, Philippines, Vietnam and China currently have this option.

Ahmed Hussen, Minister for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship said “By expanding the Student Direct Stream to a more diverse range of prospective students, we’re enhancing the tremendous cultural, social and economic benefits that international students provide.”

Usually the processing time for study permits applications is eight weeks for students from Pakistan. The SDS route will reduce the processing time to within 20 days.

The only difference by using the SDS route students will have to provide their language (English/French) results, and provide proof that they have paid the tuition fees for the first year.