Visa Application Guide for Bangladeshi Students: In Detail
Every student aspiring to study abroad from Bangladesh needs to understand how student visa processing works, as this should be the first step when planning to study abroad, which means they also need a simple visa application guide.
This is one of the most complex steps required for studying abroad, as there are many essential details to get right, including verifying and obtaining the required documents, proof of sufficient funds, medical exams, strict processing timelines, and following the instructions needed.
Failure to get these details right is one of the most common reasons for delays and even refusals of applications. But, we don’t want you to risk your chance, so let’s know what you can do step by step!
Table of Contents
Visa Application Guide by Major Study Destinations
It can definitely be overwhelming to think about student visas for the first time, but it becomes much more manageable once you get the hang of the requirements set by each country.
Each destination has its own set of rules, documentation, and financial requirements. Some ask for a CAS, while others require an I-20, a blocked account, or a GS statement. Let’s look at the countries individually and straightforwardly.
United Kingdom
The UK has a very structured approach to getting a visa. First, you need a CAS from your university. This is a confirmation document outlining your course, fees, and the date your course begins.
Next is the financial proof. You need to provide a bank statement reflecting a balance that has not decreased for 28 days and meets the minimum amount set by UKVI. There is a TB test required for students from Bangladesh, and the certificate must be from an approved UK clinic.
Once you have all your documents, you complete your online form, pay the IHS and visa fee, and book your biometrics at VFS in Dhaka. Make sure to keep copies of your documents, as UKVI does a very thorough review.
United States
In the United States, for your visa application, the most crucial document is the I-20 form, which is issued by your university after document verification, including verification of your funds. After receiving it, pay the SEVIS fee, as it is a payment that connects you to the school’s system.
The DS-160 visa form comes next, and it must be filled in with the same information as your I-20. After that, you book an in-person interview at the United States Embassy in Dhaka.
The interview is vital, so keep your answers short and truthful. Bank statements, sponsor proof, and your academic history must be kept in order. If everything is in order, it should be a quick approval process.
Canada
To apply in Canada, first, you need a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI-designated college or university. Next, your entire process is done through the IRCC portal. For students from Bangladesh, a clear financial plan is needed, and the minimum required yearly money starts from CAD 20,635. Biometrics is done in the approved VAC in Dhaka.
Some students choose to apply under SDS; it is quicker, however, there is a higher proof of funds requirement. Ensure that your bank statements, tuition receipts, GIC (if applicable), and accommodation details are correct. Canada is a very documented country; therefore, neatness, clarity, and thorough preparation go a long way.
Australia
Australia requires you to have a CoE, which confirms your enrolled status. You must also have OSCH since it is compulsory to have health insurance. Unique to the Australian process is the GS statement, which explains the purpose of your study and long-term goals. It must sound believable and be logical.
Proof of funds is also crucial to Australia; therefore, always attach to your application bank statements, loan sanctions, or submit letters from a sponsor. The visa application is long, but if done step-by-step, it’s simple. After submitting, you do your biometrics and wait for a decision to be made.
Germany
Germany is known to have one of the most complex applications. First, students from Bangladesh need an APS certificate. Secondly, you have to open a blocked account for €11,904 for a year (this amount will be given to you monthly after you go to Germany). You need to show proof of accommodation, even if it’s temporary.
Health insurance is also factored in. When the documents are all together, you go to the embassy and book a visa appointment. With academic records, you need to have them all neatly attested, because Germany reviews them one by one.
France, New Zealand & Others
France has the VLS-TS long-stay study visa, and for that, you need proof of acceptance, proof of funds, proof of health insurance, and proof of accommodation. New Zealand has a fee-paying student visa.
For that, you need tuition receipts, proof of funds for a whole year, health documents, and a police clearance. Other countries follow similar steps: acceptance letter, proof of funds, medical checks, and biometrics. Even though the rules are different, the core idea is the same. Clear documents, enough funds, and a legitimate study plan are crucial.
Student Visa Application Steps
Getting a visa is the first step to studying abroad. Make sure you follow every step in order from the visa application checklist. Each step has small traps. But if you prepare documents early, keep the receipts, and stay calm, the process becomes a lot easier. Let’s go over the steps one at a time.
Receive Your Acceptance Letter
You may get a conditional or unconditional offer, and you should read both of them very carefully. If you get a conditional offer, make a note of what you are missing from the essential documents for a student visa.
Then you need to pay the tuition deposit and keep and print the receipts. After you pay, the university sends you a CAS (UK), an I-20 (US), a CoE (Australia), or an LOA (Canada). Be sure to check the issuance timelines, because it can take anywhere from a day to a week.
Also, for visa forms and proof of payment, save copies of the documents you sent, and take screenshots of everything. Lastly, make sure that the start dates for your course align with the dates on your visa.
Make an Online Application Portal Account
Each country has its own individual portal. For Canada, it is IRCC GCKey or Sign-In. For the UK, it is the UKVI student visa service. For the US, it is filling in the DS-160 online. For Australia, it is creating an Immi Account. For Germany, go to Studying in Germany/ Visa Portal.
Make these accounts in advance. Use an email you know is reliable. Store your usernames and passwords securely. Upload small files first so you can avoid upload errors. Also, be mindful of how long each portal takes to process applications, and be aware of any server downtimes.
Know Financial Proof Requirements
Look into your country’s exact amount. Australia’s guide has an average of AUD 29,710 pre living expenses. For Canada, it is a minimum of CAD 20,635 per year for a single student.
Germany’s blocked account is approximately €11,904. The proof can be in a few different forms: sponsorship letters, bank statements, loan sanction letters, scholarship letters, or any combination of these.
Make sure the statements show the necessary funds for the required number of days; the UK has a 28-day rule, for example, and has recent deposits or loan letters to provide evidence.
Gather All Required Documents
Collect both originals and quality scans. You need a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months after your course end date. Add offer letter / CAS / I-20 / CoE. Include bank documents, loan sanction, and/or scholarship letters.
Include attested academic transcripts (SSC/HSC/UG). Add results of English language tests (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL) if applicable. Include proof of accommodation, passport, all-size photographs, and certified translations if applicable. Maintain a checklist and clearly name your files (e.g., passport.pdf).
Health and Security Requirements
Some countries will want medical examinations and other particular tests. The UK may request a TB test from an approved clinic. Canada, Australia, and New Zealand often require panel physician examinations.
You may also require a police clearance/character certificate. Purchase health insurance if applicable (OSHC for Australia). Research vaccination or health form requirements early.
Submit Visa Application Form
Fill out the form thoroughly. Be sure the name, date, and spelling match those on your passport. Upload the documents in the right formats, along with the visa and country-specific fees (like the SEVIS fee for the US and the IHS fee for the UK). Screenshot and keep the payment proof.
Go through all the sections again after your last edit, just in case. Most sites allow modifications for a short period, so use them wisely. After completing the form and making the payment, you will get a confirmation email and an application ID. This ID is necessary, as it will be needed for future inquiries, so keep it safe.
Biometrics Appointment
Travel Risk Countries (TRCs) most often mandate fingerprints (photos) as a form of additional identification. After booking an appointment at VFS Global or the designated Visa Application Centre (VAC), you will fill in your passport number and the Application ID.
If you are in Bangladesh, you will most likely address VFS Dhaka. Be on time for your appointment to receive your biometric confirmation, as your further application will be blocked until you complete this step.
After your biometric appointment, keep the receipt, as some countries will request a tracking number when you send your passport, and processing times will vary depending on the country and time of year.
Attend Visa Interview (If applicable)
In-person interviews are required when traveling to the US. Other countries may require interviews as well, but only in certain situations. You should prepare to answer questions in an honest and straightforward manner regarding your course, funds, and future plans.
Bring your original documents with you, like your passport, I-20/CAS/CoE, bank documents, and sponsor affidavit. Dress in a polished and professional way. Interviewers usually ask questions like what is the purpose of your studies, what is your funding source, and what are your ties to Bangladesh?
Track Application Status
Once you have your submission through TCL Global and biometrics completed, you can track your case online. If you’re in the UK, use the gov.uk tracker. If you’re in the US, use the CEAC or embassy portal.
Applicants in Canada should check their IRCC messages and GCKey, and Australian applicants should be using an Immi Account. You may get updates through email or SMS, so be sure you stay on top of that. If you’re requested to send additional documents, be sure you do that promptly.
Visa Decision & Passport Submission
When your visa application requests your passport, you will receive passport requests (PPRs), which will trigger a series of further instructions guiding you on additional details and how to submit your passport.
With your instructions, submit any return courier, return prepaid envelopes, or tracking details as required, and follow the instructions to submit your passport to the VAC or embassy.
When you receive your application outcome, collect your passport. If you have received a visa refusal, you must read your refusal letter, as it contains reasons and remedies.
Financial documents Breakdown
Financial documents are important to submit as part of a visa application. You have to be able to provide evidence that you are able to support and fund, with a proof letter from an organization, and provide a visa applicant’s bank statement to support and pay the visa application, to cover all costs.
There will be a verification of your bank documents, which is necessary to do, and the visa documents. The remaining bank verification documents as proof will help support and strengthen your application.
It is common for students to submit bank statements from the past six months since they can demonstrate steady funds. Then, there are loan sanction letters. These confirm that a bank is willing to financially assist your studies.
Medical & Health Insurance Requirements
Medical checkups and health insurance are a significant part of the visa process. Medical checks are required by most countries to confirm that you are healthy enough to study and stay in their country.
You may be required to take a TB test, a complete medical exam with a panel physician, or additional tests if further investigation is necessary. These measures are for the benefit of the public and help ensure safety.
A necessity is health insurance. There is an OSHC requirement for Australia. Germany takes AOK or TK. Some students buy travel insurance for a few days for extra safety. Having good insurance means you will be covered while you are overseas.
Bottom Line
Getting a student visa is the most stressful, but it won’t be as you have a simple visa application guide. Each of the steps provides individual value. Most importantly, you stay organized and then check the rules for the country and get your documents ready early.
Make sure to have copies of everything, follow what the embassy tells you to do, and time it so as not to make any mistakes.
When you understand the process well, your visa journey becomes smooth and stress-free. And if you ever need help, expert advisors like TCL Global can guide you through each step.
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