Canada S1 Visa vs SW1 Visas: Which is Right for Your Immigration in 2025?

For international students planning to pursue education in Canada, it is crucial to be well versed with the difference between Canada S1 and SW1 visa for overseas students. Both the visa types facilitate international students entry into Canada, however the difference lies in the type of programs they cater to and the permissions they grant.

In this article we will delve into the details of Canada S1 vs SW1 visas, shedding light on their eligibility requirements, application processes, unique benefits, and more.

Canada S-1 vs SW-1 Visas: Understanding the Visa Types and Their Meaning

What are S-1 Visa and SW-1 Visa? International students when applying for a study permit in Canada, need to check through the student visa options available. SW1 visa and S1 visa are the most sought after visa, each tailored to specific academic pursuits and requirements.

• SW-1 Visa: This Study Work visa is designated for students who are required to participate in compulsory co-op programs as part of their study permit. If your study permit includes mandatory co-op, you will be granted an SW-1 visa. With the SW-1 visa, you can work in Canada as a student without the need for an additional co-op work permit.

• S-1 Visa: The Study visa (S-1 visa) is issued to students with optional internships included in their study permit. However, it does not grant immediate permission to work in Canada as a student. To work in Canada with an S-1 visa, you will need to apply for a co-op work permit, which does not incur any additional fees.

The difference between the S-1 and SW-1 visas is minimal, so there is no need for concern regarding the type of visa issued, as both ultimately facilitate employment opportunities for students in Canada.

Canada S-1 vs SW-1 Visas: Key Differences

S1 and SW1 visas are two categories of Canadian student visas. The main distinction between them is that the S1 visa is typically granted to students with optional internships, and it requires a separate co-op work permit for employment.

In contrast, the SW1 visa is for students with mandatory co-op programs, granting immediate work rights during co-op periods without the need for an additional work permit.

1. Eligibility Criteria for S-1 and SW-1 Visa Canada

The eligibility criteria for S1 and SW1 visas Canada are structured to ensure the prospective applicants meet the necessary qualifications and requirements to pursue their education in Canadian land.

To qualify to the student visa in Canada applicants would need to meet the following eligibility criteria

Enroll in a designated learning institution

• Your chosen designated learning institution (DLI) for international students should be on the list of DLIs with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan
• Demonstrate the financial capacity to support themselves and their families while in Canada.
• Commit to adhering to Canadian laws and regulations
• Maintain a clean criminal record
• Provide compelling evidence to an immigration officer that they intend to depart Canada upon visa expiration

Additional Requirements for SW1 Visa for Canada

The specific requirements to meet when applying for SW-1 visa in Canada includes the following:

• It is mandatory to work to fulfill the requirements of your program
• The college must explicitly state in your admission letter that work experience is a requirement for program completion
• The Co-op placement or internship should not exceed 50% of the total duration of your study program.

2. Documents Required for the S-1 and SW-1 Visa Application

Now that you have learned about the eligibility requirements for SW1 and S1 visas let us further explore the list of documents needed to apply for Canadian S-1 or SW-1 visas, which include:

• An Acceptance Letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• A Valid Passport
• Proof of funds to cover your tuition fees and support any family members accompanying you to Canada.
• Supplementary documents, which may include:
  • Custodian report
  • Medical tests required for Immigration
  • Police clearance Certificate
  • Proof of identity

3. Application Process for S-1 and SW-1 Visa Canada

So far we have mapped the differences in eligibility and requirements for the Canada student visa S1 and SW1. Next in the row is to understand the application process for the student visas. Canada to ensure the convenience of applicants offers an online and offline modes of application, the process includes:

• Step 1: Verify your eligibility for a Canada student visa
• Step 2: Assemble the required document checklist
• Step 3: Complete the online visa application
• Step 4: Await the application status update
• Step 5: Travel to Canada for your studies

Are you interested in learning about the requirements for a Canadian student visa? If so, check out this blog: Canada Students Visa: Requirements and Fees in 2023

4. Application Fees for S1 and SW1 Visa Canada

Canada student visa fees for S1 and SW1 visas is same i.e. CAD 150 (per person including extensions). Canada study permit applicants would also need to go through the Canada biometric appointment process, and the cost of biometrics per person is CAD 85.

Know more about Canada Visa Fees here in advance.

5. Processing Time for S-1 and SW-1 Visa Canada

Once applicants have submitted their study permit applications, they would need to undergo the visa processing phase. The current Canada Study permits visa processing times in 14 weeks (from India). The time period might however differ based on the country you are applying from.

6. Validity for Canada's S-1 and SW-1 Visas for International Students

The validity of Canada student visas for international students based on the visa type is as follows:

• S-1 Visa:

The S-1 visa offers a maximum validity period of 3 years and allows the holder to enroll in any Canadian educational institution, provided they have received acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI).

The DLI plays a pivotal role in determining eligibility for the S-1 visa and whether the applicant can participate in the program. While this visa is renewable, it can only be extended once before one applies for permanent residency.

• SW-1 Visa:

The SW-1 visa offers a maximum validity period of 4 years, similar to the S-1 visa. However, it shares the same restriction in that it can only be renewed once before the applicant pursues permanent residency in Canada.

Factors Affecting S1 and SW 1 Visa Canada Processing Time

Certain factors can influence how long it takes to process an SW1 visa application in Canada. The type of visa category, the applicant's country of residence, the accuracy and completeness of the application, and the duration of background and security checks all play a role in determining the processing time for the SW1 visa.

• Visa Category - The processing time for the SW1 visa varies according to the specific visa category. Typically, student visas take around 3-5 weeks to process
• Country of Residence - The processing time also hinges on the applicant's country of residence. Some nations may experience higher application volumes, placing additional demands on immigration authorities
• Application Accuracy - Timely processing depends on the submission of a precise and comprehensive visa application
• Ongoing Backlogs affect Canada Visa for Studies.
• Background and Security Screening - Background and security checks can sometimes introduce delays in the SW1 visa processing for Canada

Secure Your Canadian S1 and SW1 Visas Today with GetGIS!

The S1 visa and SW1 visas cater to different academic needs with the SW1 visa designated for programs requiring mandatory work components and the S1 visa is more suitable for General Academic Studies. Understanding their distinctions help ensure you choose the right visa for your educational goals in Canada. Proper preparation and adherence to requirements are key to a successful application process

If you are also an aspirant interested in exploring opportunities in Canada, reach out to GetGIS study abroad assistance. Our team provides you tailor made guidance to meet all your Canada student visa application requirements for your assured university admission and travel to Canada.

Book Your Free Consultation

Also Read:

• Different Canada Visa types from India for Indians
• All About Multiple Entry Visa in Canada and How to Apply
• List of Documents Required For Canada PR From India