How do student visa policies differ for masters students between the US and Canada?

Question

K S Saini · Accepted Answer

The key difference between the student visa policies for master&rsquo;s students in the US and Canada lies in the limitations they put on post-study work opportunities.  
In the US, student visa policies are generally more stringent. Master's students often apply for the F-1 visa, which requires proof of financial capability, acceptance to a recognized program, and a successful visa interview. 
Employment during studies is restricted, allowing only on-campus work initially, with some options for internships under Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or post-graduation work under Optional Practical Training (OPT).
In contrast, Canada&rsquo;s student visa system is relatively streamlined. A study permit is required, which also involves proof of acceptance and funds. 
Canadian policies are more flexible, often allowing off-campus work for up to 20 hours per week. 
Graduates have a clearer path to permanent residency through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows work for up to three years, depending on the study duration, making it attractive for those planning to settle."

Neema Nigam · Answer

The student visa policies for master&rsquo;s students in the US and Canada differ in terms of ease of application, requirements, and work restrictions. 
Student visas in the US can be more complex, often involving additional paperwork and an interview process. 
The F-1 visa, needed for a master&rsquo;s program, requires proof of sufficient funds, and students must adhere to strict rules regarding employment. 
Limited options for internships exist through CPT and post-study work through OPT, which gives up to 12-36 months based on the field of study.
Canada offers a more straightforward approach with the study permit. It allows more flexibility, such as part-time work rights during studies, which can ease financial strain.
Post-study, graduates can easily transition to working full-time using a PGWP, offering up to three years of open work authorization, making Canada particularly favorable for those interested in gaining professional experience or considering immigration.

Prateeksha Manral · Answer

Student visa policies show quite a difference in application processes and related features like work rights and post-graduation opportunities on student visa policies for master's students between the US and Canada. Though both are popular destination countries, each has its approach to handling student visas differently. Here's a closer look:
Types of visas
F-1 Visa in USA: An F-1 visa allows entry for those who have been offered full-time studies in an accredited university. Application: an I-20 from the university, your financial documents that reflect your capability of paying for the tuition along with your living expenses, and your proof of proficiency in English can be through TOEFL or IELTS.
Canada Study Visa: A study visa is needed if a student intends to stay for more than six months. Documents submitted for the application include an admission from a DLI, proof of financial capability, and sometimes, health insurance information.
Rights to Work:
US: Under this status, F-1 visa students are eligible to work 20 hours a week during the academic year and full-time in the summer months; however, such work needs to be on campus or through one of a few programs specifically authorized by the government (such as Curricular Practical Training, or CPT). After graduation, for as long as 12 months following graduation and up to three years for STEM field graduates, students are eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training or OPT.
Canada: Students holding a Canadian study visa are entitled to work on-campus and off-campus with limits. As a holder of the visa, students may work off-campus during terms of up to 20 hours a week and full-time during semester breaks. Upon graduation, students receive the benefit of working through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program for a period that does not exceed three years depending on the length of the student's study program.
Visa Application Procedure:
US: The application process requires an interview at the US embassy or consulate in the US, and this makes the whole process very lengthy and slightly complicated. Sometimes, visa approval becomes stiff, looking more into the intention of returning home after completing the studies.
Canada: The process is relatively less complicated, and they have no set interview date. Once all the relevant documents are submitted, including biometrics, they don't take as long as the US to get approved.
Post-Graduation Opportunities:
US: As this period of OPT ends, work in the US gets tricky for students because one needs to get an employer to sponsor an H-1B visa which is capped and competitive, so not all students can look forward to a long-term stay.
Canada: Once obtaining this PGWP, students can easily transition into permanent residents in Canada. Work experience will allow them to apply for residency through systems such as Express Entry which is readily accessible to graduates but still does not come close to the United States' pathways to immigration.
Health Insurance:
US: All US universities and colleges require students to buy health insurance either from the school or a private provider. The prices may range between 1,500 to 3,000 dollars every year.
Canada: Health insurance is obligatory in Canada, by province. There are provinces that cover healthcare services for international students, while in other provinces, students have to buy private health insurance, which costs around CAD 600-1,000 yearly.

How do student visa policies differ for master's students between the US and Canada?