SX-1 Visa Canada: Experts Guide to Short-Term Study 2024

Written by

Alisha Azeem

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Oct 08,2024

Your Guide to the SX-1 Visa for Canada: Benefits & Tips - TerraTern

Planning your Canada PR
Free last minute checklist

Benefits of the SX-1 Visa Canada

Here are a few key benefits of SX-1 visa Canada:

1. No Study Permit Required

2. Flexibility for Short Courses

3. Multiple Entries

4. Easy to Apply

5. Less Documentation

Benefits of the SX-1 Visa Canada

Latest Facts and News

  • Canada's Immigration Policy Update: Recent changes in Canada's immigration policy may affect the issuance of SX-1 visas, with a focus on aligning with labour market demands.

  • Acceptance Rate: The acceptance rate for the SX-1 visa is approximately 60-70%, providing a good chance for applicants.

  • Short-Term Study Focus: The SX-1 visa is primarily for short-term courses, not leading to a diploma or degree.

  • No Work Permit: The visa does not allow work during the study period.

  • Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability and strong ties to their home country.

What is the SX-1 Visa Canada?

The SX-1 visa Canada is a Temporary Resident Visa for students who want to pursue short-term courses or training programs in Canada. This visa is only issued to students if the selected course is 6 months or less than that. The SX-1 visa Canada allows the students to pursue courses without a study permit. This is a more feasible option for students as it’s easy to apply for and takes less visa application processing time. Another important feature of this visa is that it allows multiple entries into the country during its validity.

Also Read: Cost of Study in Canada for Indian Students in 2024

Eligibility Criteria for the SX-1 Visa Canada

Some eligibility criteria need to be met to get the SX-1 visa Canada. Here’s a list of all the requirements for SX-1 visa Canada:

1. Enrollment in Short-Term Program

The applicant must be accepted into a study program, workshop, course, or training that lasts 6 months or less. This is mandatory to apply for an SX-1 visa in Canada. The course should strictly be within the limit of 6 months and should not exceed that.

2. Proof of Sufficient Funds

Applicants must show they have enough funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation from Canada. This is to ensure the students can cover their expenses while they stay in Canada without any issues. Proof of sufficient funds can be a bank statement or any other relevant letter.

3. Valid Passport

A valid passport is mandatory for an SX-1 visa in Canada. The validity of the passport must be more than 6 months to avoid any problems later.

4. Compliance with Canadian Law

The applicant must agree to follow all the conditions and regulations of the visa and not violate any laws during their stay in Canada. This is important for the SX-1 visa Canada.

5. Travel Documents

Applicants need to provide details about their travel plans. This includes having a return ticket or proof of the intention to leave Canada after completing their study program or workshop.

Eligibility Criteria for the SX-1 Visa Canada

Application Process for the SX-1 Visa Canada

Follow the given steps to apply for the SX-1 visa Canada:

1. Determine Eligibility

Before applying, ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria, including enrollment in a short-term program (6 months or less), proof of funds, and other documentation requirements.

2. Obtain a Letter of Acceptance

Secure a letter of acceptance from the Canadian educational institution, training centre, or organisation where you will attend the short-term program or course. The letter must contain the details of your course duration and confirm your enrollment.

Also Read: New Work Hour Policy for International Students in Canada

3. Gather Required Documents

Gather all the required documents necessary for application for an SX-1 visa in Canada. The documents generally include a valid passport, letter of acceptance, proof of financial funds, biometrics, medical certificate and police clearance certificate. 

4. Apply Online

Apply online for the SX-1 visa in Canada. Create an account on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Use that account to fill out the application form and upload all your scanned documents through that site. Pay the required fees after submitting the application form.

5. Application Process 

Cross-verify all the information before submitting the application form to ensure your acceptance of the SX-1 visa in Canada. After submitting, wait for the result. The visa processing time can be checked through the IRCC website. 

Factors Affecting SX-1 Visa Acceptance 

The acceptance rate of SX-1 visa Canada is generally very high, but some factors can affect the acceptance rate. Here’s a list of a few factors that can cause the rejection of your SX-1 visa in Canada. Keep in mind the following factors to avoid any such situation with your application form:

1. Strong Ties to Home Country

Applicants with strong ties to their home country (e.g., family, job, property, or business) typically have higher chances of approval. This shows that they will likely return after their short-term stay in Canada.

2. Clear Purpose for Study

A well-defined purpose for pursuing a short-term course or training in Canada enhances the chances of approval for the visa. The course’s importance and your need to pursue it can also be defined.

3. Proof of Sufficient Funds

Showing adequate financial support to cover tuition, living expenses, and return travel costs is essential. Lack of clear financial support can lead to refusals of the SX-1 visa Canada.

4. Good Immigration History

A strong immigration history increases the chances of acceptance for the SX-1 visa in Canada. Applicants with past visa refusals or issues may face additional problems.

Also Read: Apply Canada Work Visa: Types, Fees, Eligibility & More

5. Medical and Security Clearance

Being in good health and having no criminal record is important. If required, the medical exam and police clearance should be clear. Having both certificates can increase your chances of getting the SX-1 visa in Canada.

Factors Affecting SX-1 Visa Acceptance 

Costs Associated with the SX-1 Visa Canada

Here’s a detailed budget for costs associated with the SX-1 visa Canada:

Cost Category

Description

Approximate Amount (CAD)

Visa Application Fee

This is the standard fee for applying for the SX-1 Visa.

$100

Biometrics Fee

Biometrics are required for most applicants.

$85

Medical Exam

You may need to take a medical exam, depending on your home country.

$150 - $300

Police Clearance Certificate

Some applicants may need to submit a police clearance certificate.

$0 - $100

Travel Insurance

It is optional but recommended for the duration of your stay.

$50 - $200 (per month)

Accommodation in Canada

Costs depend on the city and type of accommodation.

$500 - $2,000 (per month)

Living Expenses

Includes food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses, depending on lifestyle and location.

$800 - $1,500 (per month)

Visa Renewal Fee (if needed)

If you need to extend your stay beyond six months, you may need to convert your visa to a study permit, which has an associated fee.

$100

Note: This data is based on the latest research by our expert team members.

Read More: Canada Immigration: Questions For Students At Airports 2024

SX1 Visa Canada Success Rate: Latest Update

The success rate of applicants for SX1 visa applications in Canada has shown notable fluctuations and variations in recent years. As per the latest information provided by our immigration experts, in Canada, the SX1 visa application success ratio is roughly 66% of the total applications received and considered by official authorities. This indicates a fairly moderate level of success for people looking for this type of visa, where almost two-thirds of people who wish to migrate get their SX1 visas approved. However, applicants are encouraged to go through the necessary procedures as required and to ensure that they fulfil or meet all eligibility requirements to ensure positive outcomes for their applications.

One thing that is important to realize is that the success rate has, to some extent, been modified in the last few years:

  1. At the start of 2020, the percentage of people who got temporary resident visas in Canada, including the SX1 visa, was around 66%.
  2. This was sufficient to state a rise in percentage for the year 2020; the percentage was about 64%, in comparison to 2019, which had a percentage of about 64%.
  3. On the downside, however, the overall success rate has dropped from 2018 to 2019.

Such ups and downs may imply that even though the SX1 visa program still offers rapid permits for foreign study in Canada, the application process is tough and subject to careful inspection by immigration policymakers.

To increase the chances of a successful application, applicants should:

  • Ensure they qualify to apply for the visa
  • Provide complete and truthful documentation
  • Establish strong links to their home country
  • Express the intention to go back home after their short-term studies
  • Give proof of having enough money to stay in Canada

It is also important to consider that personal factors can significantly influence the chances of application. Points like the applicant's home country, prior trip history and school details can also be part of the decision-making process.

Because of the application process's competitiveness, many specialists propose asking for professional advice to meet the requirements and increase the chances of a successful result.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SX-1 visa in Canada benefits students who want to pursue short-term courses and workshops in the country. It allows the students to study in Canada without any study permit for 6 months. This visa also allows multiple entries for the visa holders. This means that the visa holders are eligible to enter and exit Canada multiple times within the validity of this visa. All these factors make SX-1 Visa Canada an attractive choice for students looking for temporary courses.

If you want to pursue any short-term course in Canada and want to apply for the SX-1 visa, then you must contact TerraTern right away. Contact TerraTern for visa-related inquiries and get help with travel to Canada.

Get all the details on Australia PR with this visa checklist

Why Trust TerraTern

At TerraTern, we adhere to a stringent editorial policy emphasizing factual accuracy, impartiality and relevance. Our content, curated by experienced industry professionals. A team of experienced editors reviews this content to ensure it meets the highest standards in reporting and publishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SX-1 Visa Canada?

The SX-1 Visa is a Temporary Resident Visa designed for international students who wish to take short-term courses or training programs in Canada, lasting six months or less. Unlike a traditional study permit, this visa allows students to study without needing a formal study permit.

Who is eligible for the SX-1 Visa?

To be eligible for the SX-1 Visa, applicants must be accepted into a Canadian institution for a short-term program (6 months or less). Additionally, they must hold a valid passport, provide proof of sufficient financial resources to cover their stay and travel expenses, and have necessary travel documents. Demonstrating ties to your home country and compliance with Canadian immigration laws is also important.

Can I work with an SX-1 Visa?

No, the SX-1 Visa does not allow students to work during their study period. However, if the short-term course requires a temporary internship or practical training as part of the program, students may be permitted to engage in this activity, but no formal employment is allowed under this visa.

How long is the SX-1 Visa valid?

The SX-1 Visa is typically valid for the duration of the short-term course or training program, up to a maximum of six months. It cannot be extended beyond this period, so students who wish to continue their studies in Canada will need to apply for a different visa or study permit.

What are the benefits of the SX-1 Visa?

The SX-1 Visa offers several benefits, including the flexibility to pursue short-term studies without needing a study permit. It allows for multiple entries, meaning you can leave and re-enter Canada during your visa's validity. The application process is generally faster and involves less documentation compared to applying for a full study permit.