A question about student visas and means of supporting ones self

[BenA105]

Hey folks,

I'm trying to help out a couple of friends sort out Canadian Student Visas and I have a query...

They are two sisters who are citizens of both Syria and Armenia. They have letters of acceptance to study at a business college in Toronto. They are both applying for Student Permits/Temporary Residence Visas at the Canadian Embassy in Ankara, Turkey with their Syrian passports (Syrian citizens can apply here). I am in Ankara with them now.

When it comes to the means of supporting themselves financially I am not sure on what they need to provide. They have an Uncle in Ontario who is a Canadian citizen, and they have letters of invitation from him stating that he will support them financially, pay their university fees, and provide them with housing for the duration of their stay in Canada. Will this letter provide enough evidence of financial means to allow the visa to be issued, or will they need more information - proof of funds etc?

They have been to Canada before - for approximately eight months in 2004/5 and returned to their home after their visit.

If anyone has any experience on this kind of situation that would be great, or any advice would be appreciated

Thanks,
Ben

 

[scylla]

A letter definitely isn't sufficient. You need proof of funds.

Since there are two sisters, you should be able to show a balance of around $14-16K ($7-8K each) to cover living expenses. This amount does not include the tuition fees. They must also be able to demonstrate they can pay the tuition fees either by paying this amount in advance to the school or showing a higher bank balance (i.e. showing a bank balance that covers living expenses + tuition).

 

[BenA105]

Thank you for clearing this up