Study in Canada
Canada remains one of the most attractive study destinations for Mumbai students — affordable tuition, a clear PR pathway and a welcoming Indian community of over 1.8 million. The 2026 rules have changed significantly — a reduced cap, PAL exemptions for Masters and PhD students, and updated PGWP language requirements all require careful planning.
Please Note: Immigration policies, visa fees and university requirements change frequently. While SIEA Mumbai makes every effort to keep this website current, information may not reflect the most recent changes. Call or WhatsApp +91 89768 02593 for accurate, up-to-date guidance.
Why Mumbai Students Choose Canada in 2026
- Affordable tuition — significantly lower than UK or USA for comparable quality
- PGWP — work anywhere in Canada after graduation, direct PR pathway
- Masters and PhD at public DLIs now PAL exempt from January 2026
- Work rights increased to 24 hours per week during term time
- Over 1.8 million people of Indian origin — one of the world's largest Indian communities
- Top universities — Toronto, UBC, McGill, McMaster, Waterloo all globally ranked
Critical 2026 Canada Updates
Study permit cap: 408,000 total, only 155,000 for newly arriving international students
Masters and PhD at public DLIs: PAL requirement removed from January 2026 — good news for graduate applicants
Undergraduate and diploma students: Still need PAL from their institution's province
PGWP language requirement: CLB 7 for degree graduates, CLB 5 for diploma graduates
SDS discontinued: All Indian applicants through standard stream, 4–12 weeks processing
Step-by-Step Application Process
- We shortlist Canadian institutions that are PGWP-eligible and match your profile and budget
- You choose the university you want
- We apply to your chosen institution on your behalf
- Institution issues your Letter of Acceptance
- We confirm whether you need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or whether you are exempt [Masters/PhD at public DLIs: PAL exempt from January 2026]
- We prepare your complete study permit application — financial documents, English test results and all supporting evidence
- Visa lodgement — pay CAD 150 study permit fee
- You submit biometrics at VFS Global in Mumbai — CAD 85 fee
- Study permit processed — typically 4 to 12 weeks
- You receive your Port of Entry letter — collect your study permit on arrival in Canada
- Visa granted — we help you prepare for departure with accommodation guidance and a full pre-departure briefing
Document requirements vary by profile and institution. Contact SIEA Mumbai for a personalised document checklist — Call or WhatsApp +91 89768 02593.
What Happens If My Visa Is Refused?
Our experts at SIEA lodge every visa application with the utmost care and professionalism. However it is important to understand that a visa is never guaranteed — the final decision always rests with the relevant immigration authority. We are fully transparent about this from day one.
If your visa is refused:
- Visa application fee: CAD 150 study permit fee — non-refundable regardless of outcome
- Tuition deposit: Generally refundable less the university's application fee. SIEA assists you through the entire refund process with the university
Important: If a visa is refused on the basis of false or forged documentation, recovering your tuition fees from the university becomes significantly more difficult. We strongly advise all students to submit only genuine and accurate documentation.
How SIEA Mumbai Helps
Our team brings a combined experience of over 14 years in international education and migration, having personally guided thousands of students and skilled professionals through student visas, university admissions and migration pathways.
We take the time to understand your goals, academic background and budget before recommending any pathway. Your first counselling session is completely free.
Frequently Asked Questions — Study in Canada
Do Masters students need a PAL in 2026?
What is the PGWP?
What if my visa is refused?
Can I work while studying?
How does study in Canada lead to PR?
Explore Other Study Destinations
- Study in Australia from Mumbai: Subclass 500 visa, PR pathway, MARA-registered agent
- Study in UK from Mumbai: Graduate Route, one-year Masters
- Study in Canada from Mumbai: Study permit, PGWP, Express Entry PR
- Study in USA from Mumbai: F1 visa, top universities, STEM OPT
- Study in Germany from Mumbai: Low fees, APS certificate, blocked account
- Study in Ireland from Mumbai: English EU, tech hub, Graduate Scheme
- Study in New Zealand from Mumbai: Student visa, post-study work, PR pathway
- Study in France from Mumbai: Top business schools, Campus France
- Study in Italy from Mumbai: Affordable tuition, design excellence