Canada Student Visa After SDS Ended: GIC, Proof of Funds & Process (2026)
Canada closed the Student Direct Stream (SDS) on 8 November 2024 — everyone now applies through the regular study permit. Here's the current process, proof of funds and GIC.
▶ Free College Predictor & study-abroad toolsImportant: SDS has ended
On 8 November 2024, IRCC permanently closed the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and the Nigeria Student Express programs. The old fast-track no longer exists — every international student, including applicants from India, now applies through the regular study permit stream. If you read older guides promising '2–4 week SDS processing', they are out of date.
Proof of funds (and the GIC)
You still must show enough money to cover living costs for your first year on top of tuition. IRCC raised the cost-of-living requirement to roughly CAD 20,635 for a single applicant (it is updated periodically, so confirm the current figure on the IRCC site). A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a Canadian bank is still one of the cleanest ways to show these funds, even though it is no longer tied to a special SDS stream.
Documents you need now
A letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), a valid passport, proof of funds (GIC and/or bank statements, sponsor income and tax documents), a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) where required, and usually an English test (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or CELPIP) at the score your program asks for. Some applicants also complete a medical exam and biometrics.
Processing times today
Without SDS, processing follows the regular study permit stream, which generally takes longer and varies by country and time of year — so apply as early as you can after you accept your offer. Check IRCC's official processing-time tool for the current estimate rather than relying on the old SDS speed.
Post-study work permit (PGWP)
After graduating from an eligible program you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years. Note that PGWP rules tightened in 2024 — eligibility is now more closely tied to fields linked to labour needs, and language-test requirements were added — so confirm your specific program's PGWP eligibility before you enrol. PGWP is still the main bridge to Express Entry PR.
How to apply
Accept your DLI offer, obtain a PAL if your province/level requires one, arrange proof of funds (GIC and supporting documents), then file the regular study permit application online. Use the free LandingPrep Canada Immigration Checklist to track every document — a missing item is the most common cause of delay or refusal.