SX1 Visa Canada: Success Rate, Requirements & Cost (2026)

An SX 1 Canada Visa is a specialised permit for visitors or guests from overseas in Canada who aspire to enroll in short-term study programs in the country. The duration of these programs is generally 6 months or less, compared to the average duration of a course for which a student visa is required (over 6 months). 

The visa is designed to enable students to access high-quality learning in Canada by streamlining the lengthy process of applying for a study permit. However, while a Canada SX1 Visa does allow temporary stay in the country for study purposes, it does not permit students to work in Canada during that stay period.

An SX1 visa is generally granted to students who are keen on pursuing a study program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada for a short duration. This typically lasts 6 months or less and may include programs such as language courses or workshops. 

The primary criteria for an SX1 Visa eligibility are as follows:

• Student applicants who have gained admission in a recognised DLI in Canada

• Applicants who have strong home ties and indicate an intent to return to their home country after course completion

• Students keen on pursuing short-term courses in Canada

• Individuals aspiring for professional advancement or upskilling in Canada

One of the primary Canada SX1 Visa requirements is receiving the letter of acceptance from a DLI in Canada to pursue a short-term course (less than 6 months). Additionally, students must meet specific requirements, including providing proof of financial resources, a valid passport, and health insurance.

Here is a list of the key SX1 Visa Canada documents required:

• A valid passport 

• Letter of acceptance from a recognised DLI in Canada

• Proof of good health standards

• Proof of finances

• Proof of strong ties to the home country and a genuine intent to return after course completion

• Medical insurance

• Certificate of police clearance

• Recent passport-sized photographs

The primary step in applying for an SX1 Visa in Canada is to obtain a letter of acceptance from a recognised DLI in the country. Once you receive the letter in hand, you can follow the step-by-step process defined below to apply for the visa.

SX1 Visa Canada Application Process:

• Secure a letter of acceptance from a recognized DLI in Canada. 

• Obtain the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). You can apply from the Canadian province where you plan to study.

• Gather all the necessary documents for the application. These include a valid passport, the required PAL, proof of medical insurance, recent photographs (passport-sized), a letter of acceptance from the DLI, proof of finances, and a police clearance certificate.

• Please fill out the application form, attach the required documents, and submit it. 

• You may also need to provide Biometrics (if required).

The average SX1 Visa Canada cost for Indian students is approximately CAD 150 for a single visa. For two or more students, the Canada SX1 Visa fee is around CAD 225.

_{Related Source: https://getgis.org/blog/sx1-visa-canada}

Some of the common SX1 Visa rejection reasons include inability to showcase strong ties to your home country, insufficient funds, and submission of incomplete or inaccurate documents. It is thus essential to consider some key points before applying for an SX1 Visa to minimise the risk of rejection.

• Unclear primary goals: Ensure that your goals and purpose of visiting Canada are evident in your mind, and you are also able to convince the immigration officers that your reason for staying in the country is for studies.

• Lack of sufficient finances: Your inability to prove financial stability to study in Canada may result in rejection of your visa application. Gather sufficient financial evidence to prove your point, such as bank statements, salary slips (if any), and scholarship letters. 

• Problem with documentation: Submitting incomplete or inaccurate documents may result in visa rejection. Always verify the accuracy of your documents and ensure that they are in order before submitting them to avoid rejection.

One of the top SX1 Visa approval tips is to improve your chances of approval by submitting a complete, accurate, and honest application, demonstrating proof of sufficient funds, and proving strong ties to your home country. Given below are some helpful tips on how to get an SX1 Visa approved:

• Apply early: Timing is crucial when applying for any visa. Make sure that you apply for the SX1 Visa well in advance of the start date of your study program in Canada. Consider the visa processing times and other immigration formalities to avoid potential delays.

• Craft a strong SOP: A Statement of Purpose is one of the most important documents of your visa application. Draft an impressive essay to make a lasting first impression on the immigration authorities and boost your chances of visa acceptance. 

• Maintain honesty: Ensure transparency in all your documents and interactions with the immigration authorities. Any attempt at lying or deliberately concealing relevant information may result in rejection of your application.

IDP Education Consultancy is one of the best in the overseas education industry and can help expedite your SX1 Canada Visa application process. Our experts guide you through every step of the visa application process, ensuring it is error-free, transparent, and in compliance with visa regulations.

1. How long does it take to process the SX1 visa for Canada?

There is no specific timeline for processing an SX1 Visa for Canada, as it is not a standard permit but instead a notable exception for visitors. The actual processing time may vary from one application to another.

2. Does the SX1 visa allow part-time jobs in Canada?

No, it is not allowed to work at all under the SX1 Visa. It is only for study purposes for a short term.

3. What is the visa interview process for SX1 Canada?

There is no formal interview process for an SX1 Visa, unlike the student visa. Only upon arrival in Canada, you may have a brief interaction with the Visa Officer to confirm your study plans in the country.

4. Can an SX1 Canada visa be reapplied for after refusal?

Yes, it is possible to reapply for an SX1 Canada Visa once it has been rejected. However, you must submit a strong application the second time to improve your chances of acceptance.

5. What is the maximum validity of the SX1 visa in Canada?

An SX1 Visa for Canada is generally issued for a maximum of 6 months.

6. What are the benefits of the SX1 visa over others?

Some of the top benefits of an SX1 Visa are:

• High quality of education

• Global exposure

• Improved career prospects

• Better quality of living

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