Skip Breadcrumb Links
Faster Study Permits Offered for the Americas
Monday, July 12, 2021
As of July 9, international students looking to study in Canada from 7 selected South American and Caribbean countries will be able to get their study permits faster.
Through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) applicants can now register for their student permits if they live in the following countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Peru
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
The addition of new countries makes 14 countries now eligible through the SDS. Other existing countries include:
- China
- India
- Morocco
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Senegal
- Vietnam
The SDS was launched in 2018 to support faster processing for eligible post-secondary students. Through the SDS, applicants provide additional information up front, allowing immigration officers to make a thorough assessment and final decision quickly.
SDS applications are usually processed within 20 calendar days but some applications might take longer. To get faster processing, you must:
International students currently abroad and looking to start or resume their studies in person will likely continue facing challenges in travelling to Canada, with ongoing reduced flight availability expected in the weeks and months ahead. Students must follow their designated school’s COVID-19 readiness plan, including planning to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. If they meet Canada’s criteria as a fully vaccinated traveller they can be exempted from the quarantine requirement by a border services officer upon entering Canada.
Students are required to submit quarantine and vaccination details using the ArriveCAN app before travelling to Canada.
For more information about the SDS stream and how to apply visit the Student Direct Stream page from the Government of Canada website.