GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)
Secure your Canadian student visa faster with step-by-step support on your GIC process.
What Is a GIC?
A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is a short-term, fixed investment required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for students applying under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) route. It serves as proof that the student has sufficient funds to cover their living expenses in Canada for the first year.
As part of the SDS visa process, students must deposit a specific amount (currently CAD 20,635 as of 2025) in a Canadian bank offering GIC services.
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Open a GIC Account
- Choose from designated Canadian banks (e.g., Scotiabank, CIBC, RBC, ICICI Bank Canada, SBI Canada, etc.)
Transfer Funds
- Deposit the required amount (e.g., CAD 20,635) from your home country to your GIC account
Receive Confirmation
- Bank issues a GIC Certificate or Investment Confirmation Receipt, used during visa filing
Get Funds After Arrival
- CAD 2,000–3,000 is disbursed upfront upon arrival in Canada
- The remaining amount is paid out in monthly installments over 10–12 months
How Globewarts Supports You
We assist students through every step of the GIC process:
- Personalized Consultation: Understand the latest IRCC guidelines and GIC requirements based on your intake
- Bank Selection Assistance: Compare authorized GIC providers and choose one that suits your preferences (fees, process time, etc.)
- Application & Account Opening: Help with documentation, form filling, and KYC procedures for smooth account setup
- Fund Transfer Guidance: Step-by-step support to ensure a secure international transfer from your local bank to Canada
- GIC Certificate & Visa Filing: Guidance on using the GIC receipt for SDS visa application
- Post-Arrival Support: Help with account activation, monthly disbursement queries, and contact with your bank’s support team
Your GIC Application Journey
A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) for Canada:
Initial Consultation & Financial Planning
We begin with a personalized session to understand your financial plan, target intake, and university timelines—so we can align your GIC accordingly.
Bank Selection & Account Setup
Get matched with a trusted, IRCC-approved bank that fits your needs. We help you navigate registration, account creation, and document submission.
GIC Application Support
Our experts walk you through the entire GIC application process—including uploading KYC documents, initiating fund transfers, and avoiding common mistakes.
Confirmation & Compliance Checks
Once the GIC is approved, we verify your Investment Balance Confirmation and ensure it meets the requirements for your Canadian study permit.
Ongoing Visa & Financial Guidance
From integrating the GIC into your visa application to budgeting your first-year expenses in Canada—we’re by your side with expert advice every step of the way.
Why is a GIC Important?
A GIC is a key financial requirement for studying in Canada:
- Mandatory for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa process
- Demonstrates proof of funds for your first-year living expenses
- Offers secure, regulated disbursement of funds in Canada
- Helps build a financial foundation in a Canadian bank
- Simplifies the visa approval process with faster turnaround
Globewarts helps you open a GIC account with approved banks, manage fund transfers, and obtain the necessary certificates—ensuring a smooth and timely visa process.
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Secure Your Future in Canada
Your Canadian journey begins with the right financial preparation. With Globewarts by your side, the GIC process becomes simple, quick, and stress-free—giving you more time to focus on your dreams.
Contact us today to get started with your GIC application and take one step closer to studying in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. If your study permit application is denied, you are eligible to receive a full refund of your GIC amount. However, you must provide the visa refusal letter and follow the bank’s refund process. Globewarts supports you with refund requests and follow-ups.
A GIC is mandatory for students applying under the SDS category, which is the preferred fast-track visa option for Indian students. If you're applying through the non-SDS route, it may not be required, but it’s still recommended to prove financial stability.
Most banks offering GICs also provide a linked savings or chequing account, which you can use once you arrive in Canada. This is where your monthly GIC disbursements will be transferred. We help you understand the bank options and manage both accounts efficiently.
Yes, once in Canada, you’ll receive an initial lump sum and then monthly installments. This helps cover your living expenses in a structured, secure, and government-approved manner.
Most banks offering GICs also provide a linked savings or chequing account, which you can use once you arrive in Canada. This is where your monthly GIC disbursements will be transferred. We help you understand the bank options and manage both accounts efficiently.
Explaining Your Financial Proof
Prepare to clearly express your GIC understanding and compliance.
When it comes to your Canadian student visa interview or application, demonstrating clarity and confidence about your financial preparedness is essential. At Globewarts, we help you communicate your understanding of the GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) process and show that you’re financially ready to support yourself during your studies in Canada.
GIC Knowledge
Understand what a GIC is, why it’s required, and how it supports your visa application.
Fund Usage Clarity
Explain how your GIC funds will be used for living expenses in accordance with IRCC regulations.
Legal Understanding
Be aware of the official guidelines, bank compliance requirements, and your rights as a student.
Document Confidence
Know how to present your GIC documents—account opening proof, transfer receipts, and confirmation letters—effectively.
Financial Responsibility
Show that you are financially prepared, responsible, and capable of managing your expenses while studying abroad.
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