Difference Between SDS & Non-SDS Visa in 2025: Process & Requirements

Did you know? 

• 30% of non-SDS rejections are due to incomplete financial documentation.
• Non-SDS processing takes 8–12 weeks, and 85% of successful applicants submit detailed study plans.

Planning to study in Canada? You’ll need a study visa, and there are two main options: SDS (Student Direct Stream) and Non-SDS. Both allow international students to apply, but the process, documents, and approval time differ.

What’s the Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS Visa?

• SDS (Student Direct Stream) – A faster processing route for students from specific countries like India, China, and the Philippines. Requires higher IELTS scores and fewer financial documents.
• Non-SDS – A regular visa process available to students from all countries. Takes longer and requires more financial proofs and documents.

Why Does This Matter?

A visa choice can impact how quickly you can start your studies in Canada. If you meet the SDS requirements, the process is faster and simpler. If not, Non-SDS is still an option, but expect more paperwork and a longer wait time.

Here, we will cover the difference between SDS and Non-SDS visa requirements, the step-by-step application process, and which option works best for you in 2025.

Make sure your visa application is perfect! Follow these dos and don'ts for applying to a Canadian student visa.

To explore eligible programs under the SDS category, check out upGrad’s Study Abroad in Canada page.

Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS Visa: Overview

The difference between SDS and non-SDS visa is important for students planning to study in Canada. According to IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada), over 70% of study permit applications from India, China, and the Philippines are processed under SDS, thanks to its fast approval rate and simplified documentation. However, many students still apply through Non-SDS, especially if they don’t meet SDS requirements.

What is SDS?

SDS is a priority visa processing system designed for students from specific countries, including India, China, the Philippines, and Pakistan. It offers a faster approval time and requires fewer financial documents, but higher IELTS scores are mandatory.

What is Non-SDS?

Non-SDS is the standard visa process for all international students. It applies to those who don’t meet SDS criteria or are applying from countries not covered under SDS. Since there’s no fixed processing timeline, visa approvals take longer and require strong financial documentation.

Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS Visa: Comparison

Planning to stay in Canada after graduation? Here’s how you can apply for Canada PR after studying.

Difference Between SDS and Non-SDS Visa: Which One Should You Choose?

• SDS is the best option if you meet the IELTS and GIC requirements—it’s faster, requires fewer documents, and has higher approval rates.
• Non-SDS works for students who don’t qualify for SDS but still want to study in Canada. It requires strong financial documentation and takes longer.

A strong SOP can increase your chances of visa approval. Learn how to write a winning SOP for Canada.

SDS Visa Application Process

Students from India, China, the Philippines, Pakistan, Vietnam, and other eligible countries can apply for a Student Direct Stream visa for faster processing. According to IRCC, SDS applications are processed within 20 calendar days.

Eligibility Criteria for SDS Visa

To qualify for SDS, students must:

• Be a legal resident of an SDS-eligible country (India, China, the Philippines, Pakistan, etc.).
• Have an IELTS score of at least 6.0 in each band (TOEFL/PTE is not accepted under SDS).
• Pay full tuition fees for the first year at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,000 from a recognized Canadian bank.
• Complete a medical exam before applying.
• Submit the visa application online (paper applications are not eligible for SDS processing).

Want to fast-track your study visa? Learn all about the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and its benefits.

Required Documents for SDS Visa

SDS Visa Processing Time & Decision Timeline

• Average Processing Time: 20 calendar days (varies based on application volume).
• Visa Approval Rate: Higher than Non-SDS, as SDS applicants meet stricter criteria upfront.
• Visa Decision Timeline: Most SDS applicants receive a decision within 4-6 weeks, but delays may occur during peak admission seasons.

Looking for financial aid? Explore Canada scholarships for Indian students to reduce your study expenses.

Common Reasons for SDS Visa Rejection & How to Avoid Them

Tip: A complete application with valid documents, a strong IELTS score, and financial proof increases your chances of approval under SDS.

Want to avoid visa rejection? Check the most common reasons for Canada student visa rejections and how to fix them.

Non-SDS Visa Application Process

Students who do not qualify for SDS must apply under Non-SDS, which has a longer processing time and stricter financial documentation requirements. Non-SDS is open to students from all countries, including those eligible for SDS who may not meet IELTS or GIC criteria.

Who Needs to Apply Under Non-SDS?

• Students from non-SDS countries.
• Applicants who scored less than IELTS 6.0 in any band.
• Those unable to purchase a GIC of CAD 10,000.
• Students paying tuition in installments instead of full one-year payment.

Confused about your student visa options? Get a step-by-step guide on applying for a Canada student visa.

Required Documents for Non-SDS Visa

Students applying under Non-SDS must submit more financial and supporting documents than SDS applicants. Since visa officers assess financial stability and intent to study seriously, having complete and well-prepared documents increases approval chances.

Non-SDS Visa Processing Steps & Expected Timelines

1. Apply to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) & Get a Letter of Acceptance (LOA).
2. Take a language test (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE). Unlike SDS, Non-SDS applicants can submit lower IELTS scores but may need additional proof of English proficiency.
3. Show financial proof, such as:
   • 6 months of bank statements showing sufficient funds.
   • Income tax returns of parents/sponsor.
   • Tuition payment receipt (partial or full).
4. Complete a medical exam before submitting the application.
5. Submit the visa application online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

Common Reasons for Non-SDS Visa Rejection & How to Avoid Them

Tip: Many Non-SDS applicants get visas approved by providing solid financial documents and a strong SOP. Though Non-SDS takes longer, students can still successfully get a Canada study permit if all requirements are met.

Work Opportunities for Students Under SDS vs. Non-SDS

Studying in Canada comes with the opportunity to work part-time during studies and full-time after graduation through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). However, the difference between SDS and non-SDS visa categories can affect work eligibility. While both visa types allow students to work, PGWP eligibility and restrictions vary based on the institution and program.

A 2024 IRCC report shows that over 60% of international students stay in Canada after graduation using PGWP, making it important to choose a visa category that keeps future work options open.

Comparison of Work Rights: SDS vs. Non-SDS

What This Means for You:

• SDS students have better work options and automatic PGWP eligibility if their school is on the DLI list.
• Non-SDS students should check if their college qualifies for PGWP before applying, or they may need another work visa after graduation.
• Part-time work is allowed under both categories, but non-SDS students may need extra financial proof to meet visa conditions.
• Since over 50% of international students use PGWP to apply for PR, choosing the right visa and school can impact your career in Canada.

Before applying, check if your school offers PGWP so you don’t face work restrictions later.

Need a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for your visa application? Check these LOR samples for Canada student visa.

Pros & Cons of SDS vs. Non-SDS Visa

Understanding the difference between SDS and non-SDS visa can help you make the right choice. SDS is faster and requires fewer documents, while Non-SDS is open to more students but takes longer and needs extra financial proof.

Comparison Table: SDS vs. Non-SDS Visa

Who Should Apply for SDS?

• If you meet the IELTS and financial requirements, SDS is the better choice for a faster visa process and a higher approval rate.

Who Should Apply for Non-SDS?

• If you don’t qualify for SDS, Non-SDS gives you a chance to study in Canada, but you’ll need extra financial documents and may wait longer for visa approval.

Not comfortable taking IELTS? See the list of Canadian universities that accept students without IELTS.

Latest Changes in SDS & Non-SDS Visa Rules (2025 Update)

Canada updates its student visa policies regularly, and 2025 brings new changes that affect processing times, eligibility, and document requirements. If you're planning to apply, staying informed can help you avoid delays and improve your chances of approval.

What’s New in SDS (2025 Update)?

• Processing time remains 20 days, but IRCC is working on further improving approval speed.
• GIC requirement remains CAD 10,000, but only certain Canadian banks are now accepted (Scotiabank, ICICI Canada, SBI Canada).
• No more paper applications—all SDS applications must be submitted digitally.

What’s New in Non-SDS (2025 Update)?

• Processing time extended to 8-12 weeks, especially during peak seasons.
• More financial proof required—students must submit six months of bank statements and tax returns instead of just a GIC.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) now under stricter review—IRCC is rejecting applications where the study plan seems unclear or unrealistic.
• Private colleges under scrutiny—many smaller institutions are losing PGWP eligibility, making it harder for students to work after graduation.

What This Means for You:

• If you qualify for SDS, apply early to avoid delays and ensure a smooth process.
• Non-SDS applicants should prepare strong financial documents and verify if their college qualifies for PGWP.
• A well-written SOP is now more important than ever—make sure it clearly explains your study and career goals.

Planning to study in Canada? Get a complete study in Canada guide on programs, costs, scholarships, and visa requirements.

Visa Assistance with upGrad Abroad Experts

Getting a Canada study visa is easier with the right guidance. Whether you're applying through SDS or Non-SDS, upGrad Abroad’s experts provide step-by-step support for your application, helping with document preparation, financial proof, SOP writing, and visa requirements. Stay updated on the latest IRCC rules and ensure a smooth application process with expert assistance.

Need help with your Canada study visa? Get 1:1 consultation with upGrad Abroad experts today!