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Student Direct Stream (SDS): How and Who Can Apply

By Sierra September 4, 2020 (Updated June 7, 2023) 2 min. read
Student direct stream

June 2023 Update: Beginning August 10, 2023, IRCC will accept 4 new English language tests for the Student Direct Stream.

Are you thinking about studying in Canada? You may be able to get your student permit quicker through the Student Direct Stream (SDS)! Designed by the IRCC in 2018, the Student Direct Stream was created as an expedited study permit application for international students who are interested in studying in Canada for higher education. Because of a high influx of student permit applications, this stream is specifically for applicants looking for a faster, more efficient processing time which on average is 20 calendar days. This steam is available to select countries and gives you options to bring your family along. Here is what you need to know about applying for the Student Direct Stream!

Who Can Apply for SDS?

There are a number of countries that qualify for the Student Direct Stream, these countries include:

Other requirements consist of:

Bringing Your Spouse, Partner, or Dependents

Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children may also be able to get faster processing on a

You must complete and submit their applications at the same time as your SDS application. If you don’t, the USCIS will not process their applications faster. When you apply online, indicate that you have family members coming with you to Canada.

Interested in Student Direct Stream?

If you find yourself interested in the Student Direct Stream, contact VisaPlace today. All of our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.

Have a Question related to your Immigration Needs?

Fill out the FREE Immigration Assessment form and get a response within 24 hours to see if you’re eligible.

The assessment form should take approximately 5-7 minutes to complete. We will get back to you within one business day to let you know if we are able to help.

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Sarah Quernasian

Lawyers here are so kind and sweet and provide so much information in an easy to understand way, especially about visa and obtaining work once in the country. My lawyer was very good and I’m looking forward to having her knowledge in the future for any other immigration needs.

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Charles Scalise

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Pherry AshMalt

I won’t go into detail for privacy, but I was in a very bad situation where almost no lawyer would work with me or even provide me with legal counsel on my case. I was terrified of being removed from the country, but with the help of the professionals at VisaPlace, they were able to help me and I was allowed to stay. The relief I feel is immense. Thank you to the amazing team.

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Walter J.

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Marco Tame

I’d like to be clear that I’m somewhat of a skeptic, especially when it comes to investing time and money into a new venture. I’m originally from the UK but I made the decision to migrate to Canada after meeting my girlfriend online six months ago. I know the process is going to take time, but I wanted legal counsel to make sure I approach the process in the most efficient way possible – I HATE wasting time. My consultation over the phone was informative and eased some of my initial concerns about potential hiccups. The lawyer I worked with was good about getting back to me, although occasionally she couldn’t be reached due to being in court – that was fine, she typically followed up relatively quickly. I’m now well within the process of immigrating and I have appreciated having the legal support.

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Michael Her

It was pretty easy to make an appointment with visaplace. I have seen some people complain about the pricing, which is odd because in comparison to other firms, their rates are relatively fair. They were also honest and upfront with the complexities of my case and gave me the option to decide whether or not I wanted to move forward. I did end up moving forward and things have been going according to what we discussed. I am relieved to know there are honest professionals out there who won’t over-promise you things they can’t deliver.

Michael Her Avatar

Michael Her

It was pretty easy to make an appointment with visaplace. I have seen some people complain about the pricing, which is odd because in comparison to other firms, their rates are relatively fair. They were also honest and upfront with the complexities of my case and gave me the option to decide whether or not I wanted to move forward. I did end up moving forward and things have been going according to what we discussed. I am relieved to know there are honest professionals out there who won’t over-promise you things they can’t deliver.