Are you an Indian student or professional planning to pursue a short course in Canada in 2026? If your program is less than six months, like a summer exchange, a language course, or a professional bootcamp, you don’t need a full Study Permit. Instead, you likely need what is commonly called the SX1 Visa Canada.
Technically, the “SX1” is not a separate visa application form. It is a specific category code that immigration officers place on your Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) to indicate you are authorised to study without a permit.
Applying for this status correctly is critical. If you apply for a standard tourist visa without declaring your study intent, you might get a “V-1” code, which can cause confusion at the border. This guide covers everything you need to know about the SX1 status, including the new 2026 financial requirements, costs in INR, and the correct application steps.
What Is the SX1 Visa in Canada?
Many students are confused by the term “SX1.” Let’s clear that up immediately.
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The SX1 Visa status is an exemption category for international students wishing to complete a short-term course in Canada lasting six months or less.
When you apply, you are technically filling out the application for a Visitor Visa (Form IMM 5257). However, because your intent is study, the Border Services Officer (BSO) assigns the SX-1 code to your visa counterfoil (sticker) instead of the standard visitor code.
Is SX1 a Start-up Visa?
No. Some sources incorrectly confuse SX1 with Canada's "Start-up Visa" (SUV) program. This is a myth. The Start-up Visa is for entrepreneurs seeking Permanent Residency. The SX1 is strictly a temporary resident status for short-term education.
Who Should Apply for an SX1 Visa in 2026?
This visa category is ideal for Indian applicants who want to upskill or get a taste of Canadian education without committing to a multi-year degree. You are a perfect candidate if you are:
- A Summer Exchange Student: Visiting a Canadian university for one semester (under 6 months).
- A Language Learner: Taking an intensive English (ESL) or French (FSL) course to improve IELTS scores.
- A Professional: Attending a specialized bootcamp (e.g., Digital Marketing, Project Management).
- Completing Prerequisites: Finishing a short prerequisite course before a full-degree program.
SX1 vs S-1: Difference Between Short-Term Study Visa & Study Permit (2026 Update)
Choosing the wrong visa can lead to rejection or legal issues. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide for 2026.
| Feature | SX1 Visa (Short-Term Study) | Study Permit (S-1) |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration | Less than 6 months | More than 6 months |
| Work Rights | No. You cannot work on or off-campus. | Yes. Up to 24 hours/week off-campus (conditions apply). |
| PAL Requirement | No. Exempt from Provincial Attestation Letter. | Yes. Required for most undergraduate/college students. |
| Extension | Generally cannot be extended inside Canada. | Can be extended/renewed. |
| Cost (Govt Fee) | CAD $100 (~₹6,100) | CAD $150 (~₹9,150). |
Leap Scholar Tip: If you think you might want to extend your studies beyond 6 months or if you need to work part-time to support yourself, you should apply for a full Study Permit (S-1) from the start, even for a short course.
SX1 Visa Canada Eligibility Requirements 2026
To secure the SX-1 code on your passport, you must meet specific eligibility criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
1. Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
You must have an unconditional Letter of Acceptance from a Canadian institution. Even for short courses, it is highly recommended that the school be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This adds credibility to your application.
2. Proof of Financial Sufficiency (New 2026 Rates)
Since you cannot work, you must prove you have enough money to cover 100% of your tuition and living expenses without employment.
- Tuition: Receipt of payment or proof of funds for the full course fee.
- Living Expenses: As of late 2025, the requirement has increased. You must now show CAD 22,895 per year (approx. ₹14 Lakhs) for a single student, pro-rated for your stay duration.
- Example: For a 6-month course, you should show at least ~CAD 11,450 plus tuition.
- Proof: Bank statements (past 4-6 months), sponsorship letters, or education loan sanctions.
3. Strong Ties to Home Country (Crucial)
This is the #1 reason for rejection in India. You must prove to the officer that you will leave Canada after your course.
- Evidence: Proof of employment in India (leave letter), property ownership, or immediate family ties.
SX1 Visa Canada Fees in 2026
Budgeting is the first step of your journey. Below is the breakdown of the government fees for the SX1 status application as of late 2025.
| Fee Type | Cost (CAD) | Cost (INR Approx)* |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application Fee | $100 | ₹6,100 |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 | ₹5,200 |
| Total | $185 | ~₹11,300 |
Exchange rates vary daily. The INR values provided are approximate (as per late 2025 rates) and should be checked against the latest rates when planning your finances.
How to Apply for SX1 Visa Canada in 2026 (Step-by-Step IRCC Process)
The application process can be tricky because "SX1" is not listed as an option on the portal. Follow these steps to ensure you select the right category.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before logging in, have your passport, LOA, proof of funds (meeting the new CAD 22,895 annual threshold), and digital photo ready. You will also need a Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why this specific short course helps your career in India.
Step 2: Access the IRCC Portal
Create a GCKey account on the official IRCC website to start a new application.
Step 3: Select "Visitor Visa"
When asked, "What would you like to do in Canada?", select Visit.
When asked, "What is the main purpose of your visit?", select Short-term study (course less than 6 months).
- Note: Do not select "Study" unless you are applying for a full Study Permit.
Step 4: Pay Fees and Submit
Upload your documents and pay the CAD 100 visa fee and CAD 85 biometrics fee.
Step 5: Biometrics and Processing
After submission, you will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL). Book an appointment at your nearest VFS Global centre in India.
- Current Processing Time: Typically 4-8 weeks for Indian applicants, though recent trends show delays up to 12 weeks during peak seasons.
Step 6: The SX-1 Stamp
If approved, you will submit your passport for stamping. When you arrive in Canada, the Border Officer will check your documents and the visa counterfoil should usually bear the SX-1 category code, confirming your student status.
Do You Need IELTS, GIC or PAL for SX1 Visa?
Many applicants confuse the requirements for a full Study Permit (S-1) with the SX1 Visa. It is critical to know the difference to avoid rejection.
1. IELTS/PTE Requirements (SDS vs. Non-SDS)
- The Rule: The "Student Direct Stream" (SDS) and "Non-SDS" categories do not apply to the SX1 Visa. These are strictly for full Study Permits.
- For SX1: You do not legally need an IELTS or PTE score for the visa application itself.
- However: Your Canadian school might require an English score for admission. If you are going specifically to learn English (ESL), you usually don't need a score.
2. Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- The Rule: A GIC (CAD 20,635) is mandatory for the SDS Study Permit stream.
- For SX1: You generally do not need to open a GIC account.
- What to show instead: You must show liquid funds (bank statements for the last 4-6 months) that prove you can pay for your tuition and living costs.
- Note: While you CAN use a GIC as proof of funds if you want, it is not a mandatory requirement like it is for SDS applicants.
3. Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
- The Rule: Most study permit applicants now need a PAL from the province.
- For SX1: Visitors studying for less than 6 months are exempt from the PAL requirement. You do not need to wait for this letter.
Can Family (Spouse/Children) Travel on an SX1 Visa? Rules Explained
One common question is whether you can bring your spouse or children while you study your short course.
- Spouse: Yes, your spouse can accompany you, but they must apply for their own Visitor Visa.
- Crucial Restriction: Unlike spouses of full Study Permit holders (who can often get an Open Work Permit), the spouse of an SX1 holder cannot apply for an Open Work Permit. They will visit strictly as a tourist.
- Children: Minor children can accompany you as visitors. If they intend to study (e.g., in a Canadian school) while you are there, they may need their own study permit or visitor record depending on the duration.
SX1 Visa Canada FAQs
Q. What is the eligibility criteria for a Canada Student Visa (SX1) from India?
Ans. To be eligible, you need:
1. Unconditional acceptance from a Canadian school (DLI) for a course under 6 months.
2. Proof of funds (approx. CAD 22,895/year pro-rated).
3. Strong ties to India (job, family, property) to prove you will return.
4. No criminal record and good health.
Q. What documents are required for an SX1 application?
Ans. You need your Valid Passport, Letter of Acceptance (LOA), Proof of Funds (Bank statements/ITR), Statement of Purpose (SOP), Medical Exam (if applicable), and Digital Photos. You generally do not need a GIC or IELTS score for the visa itself.
Q. What is the processing time for SX1 Visa for Indian students?
Ans. As of 2026, the estimated time is 52 days (approx. 7-8 weeks) for visitor visas from India, though this can vary from 4 weeks to 3 months depending on the backlog.
Q. Can I work while studying in Canada on an SX1 Visa?
Ans. No. You are strictly prohibited from working on or off-campus. If you need to work, you must apply for a standard Study Permit (S-1).
Q. What are the common reasons for SX1 refusal?
Ans. The most common reasons are weak financial proof (not showing enough liquid cash) and lack of ties to home (the officer suspects you won't leave Canada). A vague or unconvincing SOP is also a major factor.
Q. Can my spouse or family accompany me?
Ans. Yes, they can apply for a Visitor Visa to accompany you. However, unlike spouses of full Study Permit holders, your spouse is generally not eligible for an Open Work Permit and cannot work in Canada.
Q. Can I convert my SX1 Visa to a Work Permit?
Ans. No. You cannot typically convert SX1 status to a work permit from inside Canada. You would need to leave Canada and apply for a work permit based on an LMIA-approved job offer.
Q. Does the SX1 Visa count towards a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
Ans. No. Courses less than 8 months are not eligible for a PGWP. Time spent on an SX1 status does not count toward future work permit eligibility.
Q. What is the S-1 category visa in Canada vs SX1?
Ans. S-1 is the standard Study Permit for courses longer than 6 months (allows work, needs GIC/PAL). SX-1 is a Visitor Visa code for courses under 6 months (no work, no GIC/PAL).
Q. Do I need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for SX1?
Ans. No. Visitors studying for less than 6 months are exempt from the PAL requirement.
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